Fiat 12-15 HP Tipo Zero 1912-1915

The Fiat Zero, less well known as the 12/15 HP, can be considered the first small displacement Fiat to be produced in large numbers in those days . Only one type of bodywork was offered - open tourer - and in fact over 2.000 Zero were produced between 1912 and 1915.
The coachwork with its simple, rugged and reliable mechanicals was devised  by the Farina works with the direct involvement of Giovanni Battista Farina (1893 - 1966) who eventually later incorporated his nickname "Pinin" into the new family name Pininfarina.

The engine was the four cylinder (70 mm x 120 mm) 1846 cc. unit used in the Type 1, with slightly high power output. Compression ratio 4.2:1. Maximum power output 19 hp at 2.000 rpm. Side valves with gear driven camshaft. Ignition system by high tension magneto.

The Zero was eventually made available in chassis form only and supplied to coachbuilders who mainly fitted it with two-seater and landaulet coachworks.
It was supplied complete with electrics in the last year of production.

Unladen weight 900 kg (1984 lb.), recommended maximum fully laden weight with 4 passengers plus 50 kg luggage 1.200 kg (2.645 lb.)
Maximum claimed speed 62 kph (38,5 mph) Maximum gradient to be climbed 16% (1 in 6,25). Fuel consumption is announced for 12 litre per 100 km (23 mpg).
The Fiat Zero is exhibited at the Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile di Torino as well as the Centro Storico Fiat at Turin, Italy.

Photos DAMIENS and FIAT Archives

wallpapers of the Fiat 12-15 HP Tipo Zero 1912-1915 (click on image to enlarge)