Member Profile: Filippo Foti

Name:Filippo Foti.

What was your first motor vehicle?:

Toyota Corolla KF20 Coupe

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

1998, A Fiat Abarth 695 1969.

Do you still own this car?:

Yes! It’s under restoration.

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?

Fiat 695 Abarth 1969, 2 Alpha 105 Stepnose, 1750 Alpha, Fiat 500 1969.

Always liked the 500! But when it comes to Alpha’s the 105 and 1750’s were my favourite!

Most memorable moment:

Doing a “Fast lap” around Easter Creek in 2009!

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why?:

Lazo Countach:
They remind me of my favourite movie a very attractive lady was driving it at the time!!

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

The fact that we are one big and happy family!

Member Profile: Gerardo Mediati

Name: Gerardo Mediati.

What was your first motor vehicle?:

Fiat 126.

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

A Fiat 126 in 1986.

Do you still own this car?:

No.

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?

Fiat 695 Abarth, Fiat 850 coupe.

Most memorable moment:

Driving my 695 Abarth around the race track at Eastern Creek raceway.

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

Ferrari Testarossa.

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

All the friends and good people I have met through the club.

Member Profile: Joel Stillone

Name: Joel Stillone

What was your first motor vehicle?:

This is not going to go down well but my first car was a 1992 Toyota Camry Station wagon – I called it my ‘bush basher’ and had a string of white station wagons to follow, my last being a 1993 Commodore VL station wagon.

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

Even though I grew up around a FIAT 500, 124 spyder, Alfa GTV 1300 Junior, Alfetta, Alfa 164 and an Alfa 156, I didn’t buy my first ‘Italian’ until March 2008 – my pride and joy is now a ’69 FIAT 124 AC.
I bought the car in Newcastle for a good price and over a 5 – 6 month period, with the help of my father Nat, cut out the rust, took it back to metal, gave it a respray, did minor interior work and got it on the road.

Do you still own this car?:

Yes. I now drive it everyday into and out of the city for work – touch wood I haven’t had a serious problem yet….
What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:
I just own the 124 – but in the family there is a FIAT 500, 124 spyder, Alfa GTV junior, Alfa 156 and Alfa 159.

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?: (one at a time)
I had always grown up around them but only recently instilled a true interest in them. Cars, particularly Italian made, were really coming into there own in this period. The technological advances were such that some real sports models were being produced and the 124 AC is no exception. It has a cute charm with its small yet sporty body shape, but packs a little bit of muscle under the hood.

I say to mates , ‘you haven’t driven a car until you’ve driven pre-‘75’ to which I get the response ‘I can’t drive manual….’

That’s their problem…

Most memorable moment:

I have two. The first was when my dad brought the 124 into the workshop for us to start on it – I remember thinking ‘what have I done…’

The second was driving out of the workshop upon completion and taking it for the first test drive.

The time between those moments were perhaps the worst of my life…

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

My mind says a Lamborghini Gallardo but my heart says a Ferrari Dino.

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

The places we go, the drives we take and the passion for not only the cars, but getting together to enjoy each others company. Oh, and you guys said ‘hello!.

Member Profile: Adrian King

Name:

Adrian King

What was your first motor vehicle?:

1960 Mercedes 220S

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

Recent convert Bought Nov 2007. 1983 Alfa Romeo GTV

Do you still own this car?:

Yes

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

As Above

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?:)

The styling and that fabulous twin cam engine.

Most memorable moment:

Not a good one, chasing my losing my race car off its trailer & watching it collect a tree (could have been a lot worse!).

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

Alfa Romeo Brera 3.2 JTS

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

The people are very friendly and very welcoming. Everyone enjoys driving their Italian classics

Member Profile: William Gallo

Name:

William Gallo

What was your first motor vehicle?:

My first car was a Holden HK Ute.

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

My first Italian car was a 124BC in 1982 when I finished high school. I needed a car and it was $1200 what a bargain!

Do you still own this car?:

No. I got sick of my 124 so I bought an Alfa GTV 1979 model instead!

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

-Fiat 500 F White

-Fiat 500 F Cabriolet White.

-Fiat 500 N (under restoration) Blue.

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?: (one at a time)

500 F

The Fiat 500F was a cute Italian car, when i first saw one in 1982 I knew I was in love with this car straight away! The style and the shape were very cool! And for such a small engine what a powerful little car!

500 F Cabriolet

The Cabriolet is an open top different 500, its a unique car and you can feel the wind in your hair as you drive by!

500 N

This car is currently under restoration! Hopefully it will be ready before i turn 50!!

Most memorable moment:

500 F

The most memorable moment in the 500F would have to be taking it around the track at eastern creek!

500 F Cabriolet

Taking it to my daughters christening and driving in the Mardi Gras parade with members of the Gay and Lesbian Italian community!

500 N

Finding and buying the car, and getting it ready to be restored. More news to come!

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

A Ferrari GTS 308 1979, because my favourite show as a kid was Magnum PI.

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

I like the fact that we all hang out and go to different places. The club is very family oriented and we all enjoy our time together both on and off the road.

Member Profile: Carmine "Charlie" Losinno

Name:

Carmine Losinno

What was your first motor vehicle?:

A 1958 Holden

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

The first one was a 1976, Fiat 124 Station Wagon.

The second one was a 1982 Fiat 131 Super brava

Do you still own these cars?:

No

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

Fiat 500 Bambino 1969

Fiat 500c Topolino 1950

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?: (one at a time)

Fiat 500 Bambino 1969 – Back in Italy, when my younger sister was 9 years old, she had a photo with a Fiat 500 Bambino when she was making her first holy communion, I will never forget this photo as not long after she got sick and passed away.

Fiat 500c Topolino 1950 – Back when I was 16 years old in Italy my friend stole his uncle’s key for his Topolino and he asked me to go for a drive with him at 12 pm at night. We went about 7kms away from the town and the universal joint in the car broke down and luckily we could push the car downhill back to its original spot. The next day my friend and I were in big trouble. So I will never forget this experience.

Most memorable moment:

When I take my grand children for a ride in ‘ Nonno’s Baby Car’

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

When and if I can afford it I would like to buy a 1947 Ferrari model because I think this is the first Ferrari that came out and this is the year I was born.

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

I like the name of the club, the friendships I have made and the different outings we go on. And most importantly I like having a drink with the members!

Member Profile: Joe Lecce

Name: Joe Lecce

What was your first motor vehicle?

My first car was a 1963 Holden Utility. For work, carrying all my tools and parts.

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

My first Italian made car was a Fiat 500 which i bought in 2004.

Do you still own this car?:

Of course! Where is it going? Nowhere!

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

-Fiat 500 F 1969.

-Fiat Punto! (new!)

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?:

Fiat 500 F

When i was about 18 in 1960 i was in Turin, and i had just got my license. One weekend we wanted to go and hire a car to go around, but I couldn’t because i was 18 and i didn’t have anyone to vouch for me. So angrily I said to the hire man "one day ill buy one!"
I came out to Australia and after 40 years i finally bought one! And I love the car!

Fiat Punto

I wanted a new car, so i looked at all the cars that were available, but because I am member of Italian Made Social Motoring Club, this gave me every reason to buy a New Fiat Punto. It's a beauty - the best car when I compare it to anything else, its Italian Made like me and my club too!

Most memorable moment:

Before I knew Gianni and Leo Di Rocco it was really boring! One day i did a commercial with a boat which i towed with my 500. In the meantime, Gianni Di Rocco asked me to bring my car from Cabarita to his house so he could have a look at the car. I was surprised by this and didnt even know these people! i left my car that afternoon, and they looked after my beauty. When it was away safely, i knew these people would be great friends. And ever since we have been excited to go around and about. Other people thought i was crazy to leave my car with them and look how it turned out!

The best time of them all was when we had the Fiat 500 50^th anniversary celebrations in the city!

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

A Fiat 500!

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

Everything! Everyone has a great time and we all get along. All as one big happy family enjoying our time together!

Member Profile: Rose Cara

Name:

Rose Cara

What was your first motor vehicle?:

Fiat 500F 1969

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

1979 Fiat 500 F

Do you still own this car?:

Yes

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

1974 Alfa 105 GTV 2000

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?: (one at a time)

Its cuteness and personality; its styling and class

Most memorable moment:

Losing the 500 off a tow truck

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

Ferrari 246 Dino

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

That the IMSMC is a club that recognizes all Italian cars regardless of make.

Member Profile: Nat Stillone

Name:

Nat Stillone

What was your first motor vehicle?:

A Fiat 600 but it was never on the road!

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

I bought my first official Italian car in 1976 – it was an Alfetta Sedan 1974 model.

Do you still own this car?:

No – had it for 15 years but it was written off in an accident – not my fault!

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

-Fiat 500

-Alfa GTV 1300 Junior

-Fiat 124 Spyder

-Alfa 156

-Alfa 159 Sports wagon

-Fiat 124 AC

What in particular attracted you to these motor vehicles?:

Passionate about all of them!

Most memorable moment:

When test driving a Fiat 500 as an apprentice and rolled it around a corner.

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

Lamborghini Miura – the ultimate sports car.

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

The social events and sharing the same interests with such interesting people!

Member Profile: Warwick Houlden

Name:

Warwick Houlden

What was your first motor vehicle?:

A white 1987 Corolla Sedan

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

A Fiat 850 Series 2 Sports Coupe

Do you still own this car?:

No.

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

None.

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?:

After one memorable drive through Glenmore Park in a yellow Series 1 850 owned by Leo DiRocco, I just knew this was the car for me. I loved the shape of the car & the sound of the engine at 4000 rpm.

Most memorable moment:

The Most memorable moment would have to be the drive to Motorfest 2008. Being that it was my first ‘longer’ drive in my 850, it was a good chance to get to ‘know’ the car.

If you could have one Italian made car, which would you choose and why:

More 850s..!!!!

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

The fact that we can all get together on a weekend, go for a drive and enjoy a GOOD time with friends/family and have a few drinks.

Member Profile: Michael De Iulio

Name:

Michael De Iulio

What was your first motor vehicle?:

1976 Fiat 128 Sedan

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

I bought the 128 in December 2005

Do you still own this car?:

Yes I do it is my pride and joy

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

Still the fiat 128 and also another fiat 128 2 door sedan

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?:

The unique shape of the car and the balls that the little 1300cc has!!

Most memorable moment:

Driving down to Canberra for Auto Italia in 2008. Having fun on the freeway with the Di Rocco’s and my old man!!

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

New Fiat 500 Arbarth. If I fit in it!!!!

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

IMSMC appeals to me as it is a family oriented club that allows us to drive our cars. It is a very social club that focuses on family, friends, driving cars and enjoying something to eat and drink.

Member Profile: Lino De Iulio

Name:

Lino De Iulio

What was your first motor vehicle?:

1970 Fiat 124 Sports Coupe BC

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

I Bought my Fiat In 1979 at the age of 19!

Do you still own this car?:

REGRETTABLY NO. My father convinced me at the age of 22 to part with the car as i was contributing all of my precious earnings and savings in to it. After all It was a Fiat!!

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

Funnily enough i own the same car now as what i used to own. The passion i have for this lovely looking early 70’s classic vehicle would not go away. I was very fortunate to learn just six years ago that the car was for sale and with much desire to acquire one; I did not hesitate to buy it.

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?:

My nostalgia for the car was first and foremost, the immaculate look of the car as I inspected it coupled with its very original look and feel.

Most memorable moment:

Driving in convoy to Autoitalia on the Hume highway and as we drove on the stretch to Lake George the second barrel of the Webbers opened up and for a moment the car felt like it was leaving the road the same way a plane leaves a runway. It was incredibly smooth and very fast!

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

I had a recent test drive of the drop dead gorgeous Maserati Spyder Cambiocorsa. This has gotta be the one. Its literally drop dead gorgeous.

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

Good social company with my family and friends and great opportunity to take our cars on a run , show them off to the public somewhere be together have a bite to eat and a drink and return home, and look forward to next event.

Member Profile: John Di Rocco

Name:

Gianni “John” Di Rocco.

What was your first motor vehicle?:

Fiat 850 sedan 1969

(Gianni Pictured with his 850TC)

When did you buy your first Italian motor vehicle and what was it?:

Funnily enough my first Italian car was my first car!

A Fiat 850 sedan, 1969 model white i bought it in 1982 to get around town and to get to uni.

Do you still own this car?:

Unfortunately not!

What type of Italian Car(s) do you own now?:

-1959 Fiat 600 based 850TC spec Abarth 100% Burgandy.

- 1969 Fiat 850 Spider Series 2. White

-1968 Fiat 850 spider series 2 replica Abarth 1000 OT. Red.

What in particular attracted you to this motor vehicle?: (one at a time)

850TC- My brother, after purchasing a Fiat 600E in 2002 wanted to create an 850TC replica, however after much talk between within the family it was decided to leave it as it is... it was a very original example of the car and was in excellent condition! Later on in 2004, I found myself a Fiat 600 and we began sourcing the necessary Abarth parts to create a 750MM Abarth. However while my brother and I were sourcing parts, the availability of 850TC genuine Abarth parts presented themselves and so we decided to recreate my Fiat 600 to 850TC specifications! After two years of researching, sourcing, buying, fitting and building my 850TC was ready for the road in April of 2006. I love this car!

Most memorable moment: I was on the m4 freeway, and from a standing start, waiting for other members on a club run, I needed to merge into traffic very quickly! Amazingly the little 850TC moved into the line of traffic at a rate of acceleration that was surprising and memorable!

Spider (white) - In 1982 my first car was a fiat 850 sedan and in many of the manuals and magazines which featured the 850 series of cars, a small glimpse of the 850 spider could be seen. Often just the rear brake lamps, a side profile of the front bumpers or perhaps the dash. I was always told by people that I would never find one in Australia, the explanation offered was that when the 850 spider was released by Fiat the Australian Federal government introduced a hefty tax on the import of this car! As a consequence the 850 Spider was significantly outpriced by the MG convertible available then. As a result the number of MG’s VS. 850 spiders even today is probably around 5000:1. It took a number of years of research, when I discovered that one lived in the central coast of NSW, and the owner was interested in genuine buyers! This was an opportunity too good to pass up. I saw the car and I loved it! Then payed the non negotiable price...no regrets love this car! After the first two years of motoring, the engine and gearbox became a little too tired and so we overhauled both. A sweet smooth engine has resulted. Standby for another 1000 OT spec engine is currently on the drawing board.

Most memorable moment:

discovering that a 903cc bloc with an Abarth crankshaft is capable of 160kmph (ssshhhssshhh) I read that in a book, I swear!

Spider (red) – Who said there is no god!? Within a short amount of time another 850 spider became available, about 10kms from my mums house! I inspected the car, although the engine and gearbox had seen much of our roads I decided to buy it... again at a non negotiable price! I then decided that the standard engine would just not do! Again I spent much of my spare time, reading, researching and sourcing parts that would enable me to build a 1000OT Abarth replica. Using an Abarth A112 block, a period PBS head, 2x40 DCOE carbies and side drafts manifolds to suit, oil cooler, mid-mount radiator and 9/39 crown and pinion, lowered the front end(with an Abarth Lowering kit), period badging, new floor, campagnolo wheels and suspension and a new softop roof... I think you know my story now! Yes, I love this car too!

Most memorable moment:

This car has a radio cassette tucked in under the dashboard. Whilst cruising on the Hume highway and having run out of water in the wiper reservoir, a car that was travelling in front of me was spitting tiny bits of oil out of its exhaust. When I turned the wipers on, expecting to have water to wipe it off, it simply smeared the oil all over the windscreen! Not good! It was a good thing however that the roof was off and my nephew was with me, as we roared up Catherine hill my nephew leaning over the front windscreen with a clean, lint-free cloth, managed to wipe clean the windscreen whilst dean martin played in the background on the cassette.

If you could have one Italian Made car, which would you choose and why:

I wouldn’t think twice, it would have to be Masserati SuperLeggera. Why? Because it’s the pinnacle of Italian car design and aesthetics.... sounds nice too!

As I am traditionally an 850 man - I have to say that the desire to own a Moretti or Lombardi is always a a serious desire - and - recently, having seen a 124 Vignale - I have to say that I must add that to my wish list too - Hey dreams are free - maybe in my next life!!

What appeals to you about your club, the IMSMC?

Our club provides the opportunity for our family and friends to share in days out together. What better way to enjoy a day out than in the car you’ve always wanted with good company!

Welcome To Members Car Page!

Welcome to the archive of cars owned by members of the Italian Made Social Motoring Club!

Ciao!
-Editor