A seldom-seen 1969 Innocenti C coupe has emerged for sale, drawing attention to one of the more overlooked entries in the 1960s Italian grand touring segment. With fewer than 800 units produced and only a small number believed to remain, the model represents a unique blend of British mechanical simplicity and Italian design ambition.
Originally introduced in 1966, the Innocenti C was developed as a fixed-head coupe built on the Austin-Healey Sprite platform. While it shared its underpinnings with the well-known British roadster, the car received a complete transformation through new bodywork designed by Sergio Sartorelli. The result was a more refined and practical vehicle that retained the lightweight, engaging driving characteristics of the Sprite while offering the comfort and styling expected of an Italian GT.
Power comes from a 1,098cc BMC A-Series inline-four engine equipped with twin carburetors, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. The setup reflects a focus on reliability and ease of maintenance rather than outright performance. Suspension remains simple, with a live rear axle and traditional components, reinforcing the car’s accessible engineering.
Innocenti itself traced its origins to industrial manufacturing before expanding into scooters and licensed automobile production. By the 1960s, the company was assembling British Motor Corporation models while also developing its own sports cars. The C followed earlier open-top models and arrived after a more ambitious GT project was abandoned, positioning it as a practical alternative within the company’s lineup.
The example currently offered is a green 1969-registered car, consistent with later deliveries following the end of production in 1968. Imported to the United Kingdom in 2006, it has remained with its current owner since 2014 and retains a high level of originality. Supporting documentation includes registration records, certification paperwork, and factory literature.
The vehicle’s condition is described as well-preserved, with clean bodywork, maintained chrome details, and period-correct wheels fitted with matching tires. Inside, the cabin features original-style seating, classic instrumentation, and period design elements that reflect its era.
As interest grows in lesser-known classics, the Innocenti C offers a distinctive option for collectors seeking rarity, design heritage, and approachable ownership in a compact Italian coupe.
