Forgotten Fiat 1100s reacquire snob value
Back in 1954, Premier Automobiles began making cars in partnership with Fiat. Their Fiat 1100 Millecento (1954, ’55), was followed by the Elegant (’56, ’57), the Select (’58, ’59, ’60, ’61) and the Super Select (’62, ’63, ’64), each with minor modifications over the previous model. They are direct ancestors of the Premier Padmini, still ubiquitous on Indian roads; and not just in small towns — Mumbai taxis are still almost exclusively Padminis. The original 1100s, fondly known as “Dukkar Fiats,” for their rounded, porcine appearance (dukkar is Mumbai lingo for pig), are rare, though. We’re delighted to note that they’ve suddenly become very sought after.
A year or two ago, you could buy one for a few thousand rupees.(This story appears in the 19 June, 2009 issue of Forbes India. To visit our Archives, click here.)