Bandini

Bandini, formally known as Autocostruzione Bandini, was a small Italian car manufacturer based in Forlì that emerged during the early postwar period, a time when numerous small constructors flourished in Italy.

The marque's first car appeared in 1947, powered by a tuned Fiat 500 engine mounted in a tubular frame built from small-diameter tubes. This initial effort proved successful enough to encourage the production of small numbers of similar cars.

By 1952, Bandini had turned its attention to the 750cc racing class, developing a Fiat-derived engine of 759cc with twin overhead camshafts and front suspension using coil springs and double wishbones. Although the design showed clear Fiat influence, the company used relatively few genuine Fiat components, often reworking the internals of otherwise Fiat-based parts such as transmission castings.

When Italian manufacturers found themselves unable to match British competitors in 500cc Formula Three racing, a national 750cc "Formula Three" category was established. Bandini responded with dual-purpose cars that could compete in this category and, with the addition of lights and mudguards, be converted into sports cars. These models achieved some success in the early 1950s.

Bandini also attempted to enter the American market with its Fiat-based 750cc engines, but like other manufacturers using similar engines, found it could not compete against Crosley-based specials. In response, the company began offering cars fitted with Crosley engines, which remained competitive throughout the 1950s.

The company continued operating until 1961, when it introduced a front-engined Formula Junior car that was already outdated by the time it was designed. This effectively marked the end of the marque, although a later attempt was made to revive it with a mid-engined 750cc car. This revival arrived after interest in the class had largely faded.