Highlights

Rare UK right-hand drive example, coachbuilt by Carrozzeria Vignale
One former registered keeper from new
Unrestored and in largely original condition
Fascinating provenance linked to the Frixos Demetriou UK import operation
Supplied with original wet weather gear

The Appeal

Presumably inspired by Noddy's exploits in Toyland, the Fiat 500 Vignale Gamine is one of the most charming and distinctive derivatives of the iconic Cinquecento. Coachbuilt by Carrozzeria Vignale in Turin between 1967 and 1971, the Gamine is a diminutive two-seater roadster powered by the 499cc air-cooled twin from the 500 Sport. It became a fashionable sight on London's King's Road, beloved by the Chelsea set: even Peter Stringfellow owned one.

Right-hand drive examples are particularly scarce, produced only after Cypriot entrepreneur Frixos Demetriou secured UK distribution rights and personally negotiated RHD production with Vignale, purchasing 200 cars upfront with cash.

Our car was purchased new by its one lady owner and has remained in South East England ever since, used regularly and maintained throughout. Unrestored and in largely original condition, it wears a light patina befitting its age. Offered with its original wet-weather gear and a UK registration document, this single-ownership, right-hand drive Gamine is a great find.

Key Information

Mileage: 31,507 miles (indicated, unwarranted)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: exempt from MOT
Technical specs: 499cc two-cylinder air-cooled petrol, four-speed manual transmission
Paperwork: UK registration document (V5C)

The Detail

Purchased new by its one lady owner and kept in South East England throughout
Unrestored, with a light patina consistent with regular use over the decades
Wings repainted red at some point; the remainder of the bodywork is reported to retain its original paint
Bodywork reported to have never been damaged or replaced
Trim reported to be correct and original
The vendor states the 499cc air-cooled engine starts readily and runs well
The vendor describes the car as mechanically in good order
Original wet weather gear included and reported to be in good order

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.