The Fiat 60HP five-passenger touring car was built especially for American-based brewing magnate August Anheuser Busch. The example on offer is the second of just 20 chassis manufactured, the first having been supplied to Anheuser Busch’s friend, Kaiser Wilhelm II, of Germany.

Often thought of as one of the first true, cost-no-object supercars, this mighty Fiat was ordered through the American importer Hollander and Tangman, and the completed chassis was delivered to the luxury coachbuilder Quimby, in New Jersey. Spectacularly extravagant and expensive in period—it cost in excess of US$20,000, a staggering sum in 1905—chassis 3003 is offered for sale publicly for the first time in 108 years, having lived most of its life within a few miles of its very first home.

Described as being totally original, including paint, brasswork, upholstery and mechanics, and with complete matching numbers throughout, this Fiat now represents the only one of its kind left in the world, and it is without doubt one of the most coveted examples of the early high-powered, road going race cars to be found.

With its aluminium-clad body, it still boasts many unique mechanical features fitted exclusively to the car in period. It is offered in excellent running condition, yet it retains a wonderful patina accrued over its 108 year life. The car graced the lawns of Pebble Beach at the 2012 Concours d’Elegance, and most recently, it was displayed at the LeMay America’s Museum.

Max Girardo, Managing Director, RM Europe, says, “This early Fiat is one of those almost unrepeatable opportunities that rarely come to market. It is undoubtedly the ultimate performance and luxury car of its time, and to have a car such as this, having lived its life more or less in one place during a century of motoring, and to be offered today in such exceptionally original condition, is something very special indeed. It is our ability to consign and offer cars like this that really sets RM apart in the market.”