The base of the 850 Sport, (its official name, though it’s also known as Sport Spider to differentiate it from the coupé version), was the 850 saloon, launched three years earlier, but the two vehicles couldn’t have been more different.
The Sport was a gorgeous two-seater convertible designed by the renowned Italian car designer Bertone, and was also optionally available as a hardtop.
Not only was the car a milestone for the company, but so too was its engine. Under the bonnet was a 903cc, 52PS petrol engine that was later used by the 850 Sport Coupé version, and, set the groundwork for a myriad of future SEAT cars, including an entry version of the new Ibiza in the mid-80’s.
Only 1,746 examples of the SEAT 850 Sport Spider were built when production ended in 1972, and it holds a unique place in SEAT’s history. With no successor, the Spider was the first and only production convertible ever built by the brand, a symbol of what SEAT could make possible but also a sign of how the Spanish carmaker and its domestic market had developed, with increasing demand for more mainstream vehicles.
The Seat 850 Sport Spider is a classic car produced by the Spanish automaker SEAT, under license from Fiat, between 1968 and 1972. It’s a convertible sports car based on the Fiat 850 Spider, designed by the renowned Italian coachbuilder Bertone.
Key Features:
- Engine: The Seat 850 Sport Spider was equipped with an 843 cc inline-four engine, producing around 49 horsepower, which was mounted in the rear.
- Performance: Despite its small engine, the lightweight design allowed for decent performance, making it an agile and fun car to drive.
- Design: The car is known for its stylish and compact design, with a sleek, sporty look that was very popular in its time. The convertible top added to its appeal as a leisure vehicle.
- Interior: The interior was simple but functional, typical of small sports cars from that era. It featured basic instrumentation and seating for two.
The Seat 850 Sport Spider is a beloved classic today, cherished by car enthusiasts for its vintage charm and driving experience.
