Fiat 4 HP
The car that started it all: Fiat's first production automobile.
- Power
- 4 bhp
- Top speed
- 22 mph
- Est. value
- $250k–$500k
About the Fiat 4 HP
The Fiat 4 HP, also known as the 3½ HP, was the first model produced by Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino. Designed by Aristide Faccioli and based on the Ceirano Welleyes prototype, it features a rear-mounted horizontal twin-cylinder engine and a vis-à-vis body style where passengers sit facing the driver. With only 24 units produced, it is one of the rarest and most significant veteran cars in existence, representing the birth of the Italian automotive industry. Only four examples are known to survive today, held in major museum collections including the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu and the Henry Ford Museum.
Fiat 4 HP specs
The Fiat 4 HP produces 4 bhp (3 kW). It has a top speed of 22 mph (35 km/h).
| Make | Fiat |
|---|---|
| Model | 4 HP |
| Trim | 679cc |
| Years | 1899–1900 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Vis-à-vis |
| Country | Italy |
| Production | About 24 built |
| Engine | 0.7-litre horizontal two-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 679 cc (0.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 4 bhp (3 kW) at 800 rpm |
| Top speed | 22 mph (35 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 680 kg (1,499 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 6 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 4 HP worth?
A typical Fiat 4 HP is estimated to be worth $250,000 – $500,000 (about £186,000 – £373,000).
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 4 HP rarity in CarSpot
The Fiat 4 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 4 HP fun facts
- The 4 HP was so primitive that it lacked a reverse gear, requiring the driver to physically push the car backwards if needed.
- Instead of a steering wheel, the car was controlled by a vertical tiller handle similar to those found on contemporary bicycles.
- The '3½ HP' name was a nominal rating for taxation purposes, while the actual output was verified at 4.2 horsepower.
