FIAT Regata 70 ES

Automotive Art   |   Photoshop Chops   |   Italian Sedan

The average car nerd knows that the numbers in FIAT model designations depicted the power output. In this case, 70 hp for this Regata. But what on earth is ES supposed to mean? Quite simple actually – it stands for Energy Saving. The 70 ES was a special edition with some modification to improve the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle such as wind deflectors on the front windows, special plastic hubcaps and a flat black rear spoiler. On the technical side it had the Digiplex electronic ignition system and the Citymatic start-stop system.

Other than that, the FIAT Regata was a rather bland family car and is largely forgotten these days – at least in Germany, where yours truly is located. The only memory is that the local catholic priest had a dark blue one and that we always thought the steering wheel was unbelievably thin. I don’t remember being a passenger in a Regata, not even in Italy where these have been more common cars.

In Turkey this car was produced by Tofaş under different names, depending on the trim level, and enjoys a cult following with many cars lowered and customized. This was the inspiration for this chop when I found the FIAT press photo. The FIAT Regata ES is lowered over a set of oldschool alloy wheels, has wider wheel arches to cover them and I added a front spoiler and sport exhaust. Colour-matched TrimLine style graphics of my own design give it a period-correct touch and tie in the wheel colour.

Sebastian Motsch   |   instagram @photoshopchops