Highlights
- Recently restored and converted by the vendor’s own workshop
- Featuring the 500 Jolly’s signature wicker interior and striped awning
- Finished to a very good standard inside and out
The Appeal
Commissioned by wealthy industrialist and Fiat’s principal stakeholder Gianni Agnelli, the 500 Jolly became seaside transport for the rich and famous the world over during the 1960s. Original Ghia-built examples are few and far between, so faithful recreations such as this recently restored 1968 car start to make a lot of sense.
This car was recently restored and converted by the vendor’s own workshop. If you fancy some compact and fun summer transport, then this Jolly recreation would be a great choice.
The History and Paperwork
- Started life as a standard 1968 Fiat 500
- Restoration and conversion work carried out during the vendor’s ownership
- Italian registration documents present
- Passed Revision on 28th October 2022
The Interior
- Wicker seating
- Retro-style radio and speakers discreetly fitted
- Very good condition following recent conversion work
The idea behind the Fiat 500 Jolly was that its occupants would be better connected with the sunshine and sea air than they would otherwise be in a conventional automobile. Therefore, Carrozzeria Ghia removed not only the 500’s roof but also its doors. The same treatment has been given to this Jolly so in reality there is little to distinguish the interior form the exterior.
In accordance with its intended use as a beach car where sandy and potentially wet individuals were to clamber onboard, a typical interior simply would not do. The Jolly therefore makes use of wicker seating which is faithfully recreated in this example.
The seats all look to be in very good condition and we’re sure the wicker will not fail to attract the gaze of curious onlookers. As this is a recently completed conversion, we couldn’t see any signs of use to any of the interior. On the floor, the orange carpeting looks to be in excellent shape and the wicker-effect overmats complement the material on the seats.
A similar lack of wear is apparent on the pedals steering wheel and gear lever which is topped by a wicker gear knob.Standard Fiat 500 trim sits upon the central tunnel and all looks to be in good shape with no UV damage. The metal dashboard is spartan as you would expect and has clearly been restored to a high standard in this example. We understand that the speedometer and switchgear function exactly as they should.
In addition to the usual front boot space you’d expect to find in a Fiat 500, the Jolly has a box mounted behind the rear passengers which looks to be in great condition in this example.
The Exterior
- Yellow paintwork
- Handrails akin to a boat
- Fabric roof / awning with tassels
Essentially, the Fiat’s original bodywork remains as standard following the Jolly conversion with the exception of the roof and sides. The wheelbase remains the same and in spite of the lack of roof and doors, these cars are still instantly recognisable as classic Fiat 500s.
The bodywork conversion has clearly been completed to a high standard here and to the uninitiated, it would be hard to tell this car started life as a regular 500. The windscreen frame is cut down, resulting in an almost sporty aero screen effect that really suits this car’s fun personality. The roof comprises a thin piece of cloth, edged with tassels. Its purpose is more to keep the hot Mediterranean sun off its occupants rather than offering any form of practical weather protection
Around the raised sill and also forming part of the rear frame for the roof, there runs polished handrails which emulate those of a boat. These cars were of course used by the sea in most cases and were often considered as land-going tenders to wealthy owners’ yachts. This has all been carefully replicated on this example and all looks to be in good condition.
The wheels are fitted with hubcaps which all look to be in good order and the tyres are new.
The Mechanics
- 500cc engine
- Drives exactly as it should
- Clean and tidy engine compartment
Inside the rear engine hatch, the plucky little 500cc engine looks to be in great shape, with no evidence of leaks. The vendor informs us that the car always starts, runs and drives really well with no untoward noises, smoke or idiosyncrasies.
We understand that all the necessary work has been completed to ensure the mechanicals are in great shape so this Fiat should make reliable and simple to maintain summer transport for its next owner.
Summary
We’re big fans of the Fiat 500 Jolly. It exists for no reason other than to be fun and that’s something that’s worth celebrating. Recreations such as this mean more of us can experience that ‘60s jetset lifestyle and so if you’re looking for something fun for next season, this would be a great little car to add to your collection.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
