The 1400 marked the beginning of chassis-free cars for Fiat. Chief designer Dante Giacosa came up with the idea back in the 1930s. With a little know-how from Chrysler and Budd, the idea then became reality in 1950. The design of the 1400 was also shaped by American influences, as can be seen from the wide rear window. Although the car was considered large at the time, the six-cylinder engine had to be dispensed with due to the Italian motor vehicle tax. This article describes the history of the Fiat 1400, explains the development of the model and points out special features. Over 80 historical photographs and examples from the sales literature of the time illustrate the beauty and design finesse of the car.