If you’re looking for a quirky, fun classic vehicle for zipping around town and city streets, nothing comes close to a classic Fiat 500.
Collectible, widely adored and mechanically simple, they make for a perfect starter or daily classic.
This model has been significantly enhanced to create a sporty looking car. With a striking colour scheme, it’s the ideal sporty town car for any lover of classic Italian cars…image00062.jpeg1.2 MB
The History and Paperwork
Manufactured in 1972
First registered in 1973
Imported from Italy
MOT to May 2023
Mileage not genuine as the engine has been upgraded
One of the great joys of the 500 is its simplicity, and this example is no different.
At some point, the interior has been retrimmed, the seats and door cards being clad in black vinyl to complement the dark grey carpets. The dash has also been trimmed in black vinyl, with an attractive diamond-stitched pattern.
All of the upholstery is in good condition, with no significant wear or evidence of damage we could see. It all looks very neat and presents well.
An upgraded instrument binnacle has been fitted, along with a sports steering wheel and wooden gear knob. These improvements really do lift the cabin above that of a standard 500F.
It should be noted that the radio and rev counter are not connected and so do not function. Otherwise, all of the instrumentation and switchgear works just as it should and is in good condition for the age of the vehicle.image00073.jpeg779.34 KB
The Exterior
Bright blue paintwork
Abarth styling cues
Factory fitted vinyl roof
Finished in a bright shade of blue (reminiscent of traditional Azzurri Blue), with black trim and accents, this lovely little city car cuts a real sporting dash.
The paint and bodywork is in very good condition, with only minor blemishes and no evidence of damage or corrosion we could see.
Similarly the external trim elements are all present and correct and in good order.
From the rubber bonnet catches, bonnet vent and front fog lights to the vented rear engine cover, sports stripes down the flanks and wider, black steel wheels it has a proper motorsport feel to it. The work looks to have been carried out well, and certainly suits the car.
The wheels themselves are in very good condition, with red centre caps contrasting well with the black paint finish. At the moment they are shod in Hankook Optima tyres, but the vendor says these are due for replacement.
Giving you the opportunity for open-air motoring, this 500 also features a factory-fitted black vinyl sunroof. It looks to be in very good condition, the mechanism working well and the vinyl being free of tears and UV damage.
We’re told by the owner that the underside of the car is excellent, with no evidence of damage or corrosion.image00015.jpeg1.19 MB
The Mechanics
Upgraded 650cc engine and matching gearbox
Custom twin exit stainless exhaust
With its rear-drive, rear-engined layout, the 500 has always been a fun, perky thing to drive. This model has been significantly upgraded to offer an even better driving experience.
The original 500cc engine has been replaced with the beefier 650cc unit and its matching synchro gearbox. This OHV inline two-cylinder unit offers much better performance over the standard engine.
Along with the twin exit stainless exhaust system, it gives the little Italian a rorty and loud exhaust note.
According to the owner, the car drives very well, with no notable mechanical issues. They say that with “a small amount of work” it would be perfect.image00006.jpeg948.27 KB
Summary
You won’t find many people that don’t love an original 500 - they’re a charming, deeply characterful vehicle that is perfectly suited to our congested modern towns and cities.
Featuring a number of enhancements to its drivetrain and aesthetic, this brilliant little car offers more fun and engagement than cars twice its size.
Cheap and simple to run, great fun to drive and increasingly collectible, it’s the perfect daily classic…
