In the 1970s, the Oltrepò Pavese was not only known for its picturesque vineyards, but also for the production of a small car that would make people talk about itself: the Lawil Varzina. This car, assembled by Lawil based in Varzi, represented a true innovation in the city-car segment, being one of the first micro-cars ever produced.
Production of the Lawil Varzina began in 1968 and continued until 1982. Although an Italian product, the Varzina was more successful abroad, particularly in France, where it was mainly used by postmen, thanks to the possibility of driving it without a licence. In Italy, however, it was considered a car in its own right.
The Scattolini coachworks in Peschiera del Garda designed the micro-car on the initiative of engineer Carlo Lavezzari. The prototype was presented at the 1966 Paris Motor Show, catching the attention of French entrepreneur Henri Willam. Impressed by the idea, Willam decided to collaborate with Lavezzari, bringing mass production to the Varzi plant. The name ‘Lawil’ comes from the acronym of the surnames Lavezzari and Willam.
The Varzina was a pioneer among citycars, known at the time as ‘microcars’. Although it was a niche car costing around one million lira, daily production was around five units. The first model produced was the Lawil S3 Varzina Spider, followed by other versions such as the Berlina, the C2 van and the C5 truck.
The Lawil Varzina underwent various modifications over the years, both in the mechanics and the engine. The initial engine was a 125 cc Lambretta, later replaced by a 175 cc engine and finally by a 250 cc BCB engine. The wheels also changed, from 8-inch to 10-inch.
All the Lawil models shared some basic technical characteristics:
- Engine positioned at the front
- Rear-wheel drive
- Forced-air cooling
- 4-speed gearbox plus reverse gear
- Hydraulic drum brakes on all wheels
If in Italy the Varzina was seen as a curiosity, in France it became a real phenomenon. The possibility of driving it without a licence made it extremely popular among postmen and other workers who needed a practical and manoeuvrable means of getting around quickly. The simplicity and efficiency of the Varzina conquered the French market, where it was exported in large numbers.
Production of the Lawil Varzina ended in 1982, marking the end of an era for this small Italian car. However, the Varzina‘s legacy lives on today among classic car enthusiasts and collectors, who appreciate its innovative design and unique history.
The Varzina is not only an example of automotive engineering, but also represents an important piece of Italian industrial history, demonstrating how innovation and international collaboration can lead to extraordinary results.
