Battista "Pinin" Farina (November 2, 1893 - April 3, 1966) was the founder of the Pininfarina S.p.A. , synonymous with some of the best-known classic Italian sports cars.

He changed his name in 1961 to Pininfarina, the change was authorized by President of the Italian Republic, acting on a proposal made by the Minister of Justice.

He was born in Turin, Italy, Pinin started working in his brother Giovanni's body shop at the age of 11 and since then his interest in cars was born. He founded his "Carrozzeria" in 1930.

Pinin means small and Battista Farina got the nickname because he wasn't a very tall man.

Pininfarina has been employed by many major car makers, especially Ferrari, Cadillac, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Volvo and Lancia. The recent Peugeot 406 coupé was also styled by Pininfarina. The firm is currently run by Battista Farina's son, Sergio Pininfarina .

See also: List of Italian companies

External links

http://www.pininfarina.it/ Official site