Fiat 12 HP
The first four-cylinder Fiat and a pioneer of the front-engine layout.
- Power
- 14 bhp
- Top speed
- 43 mph
- Est. value
- $150k–$400k
About the Fiat 12 HP
The Fiat 12 HP was a landmark model for the Turin-based manufacturer, representing their first foray into four-cylinder engine technology. Designed by Giovanni Enrico, it moved away from the rear-engine 'motor carriage' designs of Fiat's earliest years toward a modern front-engine, rear-drive layout. The 3.8-litre engine consisted of two cast-iron blocks of two cylinders each, a common practice for the era. Its success on the track, notably winning the 1901 Giro d'Italia Automobilistico, helped establish Fiat as a serious competitor to the then-dominant French marques.
Fiat 12 HP specs
The Fiat 12 HP produces 14 bhp (10 kW) and 83 Nm (61 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 43 mph (70 km/h).
| Make | Fiat |
|---|---|
| Model | 12 HP |
| Trim | 3.8 |
| Years | 1901–1902 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Phaeton |
| Country | Italy |
| Production | About 106 built |
| Engine | 3.8-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,770 cc (3.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 14 bhp (10 kW) at 1,200 rpm |
| Torque | 83 Nm (61 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 43 mph (70 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,220 kg (2,690 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 11 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Fiat 12 HP worth?
A typical Fiat 12 HP is estimated to be worth $150,000 – $400,000 (about £112,000 – £298,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Fiat 12 HP rarity in CarSpot
The Fiat 12 HP is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Fiat 12 HP fun facts
- The 12 HP was the first Fiat to feature a four-cylinder engine, marking a significant technical leap for the young company.
- A racing version of this car, the 12 HP Corsa, reached speeds of 78 km/h and helped end Panhard's dominance in European racing.
- Only a handful of original examples are known to survive today, with one residing in the Museo dell'Automobile in Turin.