2 replies to this topic

[ChrisD]

Does anyone have any information relating to Carrozzeria Fontana which was based in Padua, and bodied several Ferraris belonging to the Marzotto brothers in the 1950s (including the famous 212 'Uovo')?

Some sources refer to Paolo Fontana as being the body builder. Giannino Marzotto (Red Arrows: Ferraris at the Mille Miglia) say that it was Paolo's father who owned the bodyshop. I have found a photo with 'Carrozzeria A. Fontana' in the background. Was this the same company?

Any info would be welcome.

Chris

[Arjan de Roos]

Well yes. It was founded by Antonio when cars did not even exist. He died in 1872 and his sons Pietro and Francesco (who left shortly after) continued the company into the age of motorized carriages. After Pietro's death his widow kept the company running. She had five daughters and one son Antonio (jr.). At 13 Antonio was drawn into the company that under mother's management flourished during the arrival of the motor car. After surviving WWI and several moves within Padua (also a raid bombing their workshops in WWII), his sons Paolo and Pietro who met Giannino Marzotto and Franco Reggiani. Friendships that started in Italian cafes. Reggiani becoming a designer and Marzotto sponsor and driver.

Reason for confusion may exist as there were and are different Carrozeria Fontana. Here we talk about Premiata Carrozzeria per Automobili di Antonio Fontana, Via Volturno, Padova.

[ChrisD]

Many thanks for that, it is really helpful. I have attached the photo that I mentioned.
Chris
http://it.wikipedia....File:B24_26.JPG
http://it.wikipedia....File:B24_26.JPG

Well yes. It was founded by Antonio when cars did not even exist. He died in 1872 and his sons Pietro and Francesco (who left shortly after) continued the company into the age of motorized carriages. After Pietro's death his widow kept the company running. She had five daughters and one son Antonio (jr.). At 13 Antonio was drawn into the company that under mother's management flourished during the arrival of the motor car. After surviving WWI and several moves within Padua (also a raid bombing their workshops in WWII), his sons Paolo and Pietro who met Giannino Marzotto and Franco Reggiani. Friendships that started in Italian cafes. Reggiani becoming a designer and Marzotto sponsor and driver.

Reason for confusion may exist as there were and are different Carrozeria Fontana. Here we talk about Premiata Carrozzeria per Automobili di Antonio Fontana, Via Volturno, Padova.