• Recent extensive restoration • Built to be an Abarth tribute • Upgraded 695cc engine
67,000 miles
The Background
Launched in the 1950s, the Fiat 500 was Italy’s take on the city car. It occupied an impossibly small footprint, yet thanks to clever design and an engine in back, it could seat four and transport a little bit of strategically packed luggage, too. Powered by a two-cylinder air-cooled engine, it was a characterful, cheerful little car to drive. It was never going to win any land speed records, as it only had about 25bhp, but that wasn’t the point. It was cheap, cheerful, reliable transport for the masses. And thanks to its diminutive stature, it was perfect for the tight streets of Italy.
Of course, the appeal of the 500 stretched far further than its home country. Like it’s British rival, the Mini, its cheeky face and joyful drive ensured it gained a global following. So much so that it remained in production from 1957 until 1975. Far longer than Fiat had first intended. It was a tiny car, but it was a huge success. So much so that, agin like the Mini, it inspired a retro-styled modern version that would again be a huge success. It is, make no mistake, a classic car icon.
This charming little coffee-coloured Fiat 500 is interesting, as it started life as a 500 R, or Rinnovata. Which basically means it was part of the final production run. Later versions of the R were a tad less pure, as they used the floorpan from the 126. This one, however, is all 500.
Originally fitted with a 594cc two-cylinder air-cooled engine, it has since been upgraded to a more spirited 695cc. It sits on a set of rare Abarth alloy wheels, it has Abarth seats, decals and exhaust and as such, can now be considered as a tribute to the ‘hot’ 500.
Left-hand drive, this 500 was imported into the UK in 2003. It has had three owners, though it’s worth noting that the current owner has had it the longest, having bought it in 2009. And during his time with the car, he has worked hard to make it a cracking example. It has been subject to all manner of photographically documented metalwork, the engine has been rebuilt, the transmission overhauled, the suspension and brakes too. Nothing has been missed. It’s in excellent mechanical and structural health, and as such, presents as a wonderful opportunity for someone looking to own an original 500.
There is a V5 present, along with a collection of previous MOTs and correspondence from the DVLA. There are some invoices for servicing work, as well as wiring diagrams and such. There is also a folder in which the full works afforded to the little car are documented in photo form. Though the seller does tell us he has this on a memory stick as well, so they can be viewed in more detail.
There is no current MOT certificate in place, as the vehicle doesn’t require one due to it being exempt. However, should the reserve be met and should the winning bidder wish, a fresh MOT can be obtained. It has been MOT’d in the past after all.
If ever there was an interior that embodied the notion of ‘less is more’ this is it. No frills, no electric this or computer that. Instead, you've got the perfectly formed basics of what you need to drive. And it’s all in wonderful condition.
The black carpets are clean and tidy, and free from any damage. The black vinyl door cards are in good shape, and all the door furniture is present and functional. The bezel on the passenger door pull has come adrift, but it’s an easy part to find. The black vinyl seats are all in good condition, and are surprisingly comfortable. The front seats have a beautifully patinated Abarth logo on them. The rear bench is a simple black affair, and again is in good order.
The dash is clean and clear, and refreshingly simple. There is a speedometer, a ‘low fuel’ light, a clock, an oil pressure and oil temperature gauge. And that’s your lot! The oil pressure gauge has the capacity function, but has not been plumbed in at the engine end yet. There is a polished wood steering wheel fitted, while the pedals have been upgraded to Sparco items to offer a bit more grip.
There is no headlining to speak of, such is the simple nature of this car. There is a section of sound deadening above the rear seats, while the roof at the front opens up and folds back. This is a new mohair piece, and it seals tight and keeps the weather out. All the lips around the roof opening are clean, with no sign of rust or unwanted moisture.
As you can see, this little Fiat presents very well indeed. The most recent restoration saw the car fall under the knife to cut out any rust. New floors, work to the arches, heater channels and the like was all taken care of. As you can see from the pictures of the underside, there is no significant rust remaining. There is also a more than generous coating of underseal, which should serve to keep corrosion at bay.
The panels are all straight, and there is nothing of note in terms of imperfections. The restoration was a few years ago, and it’s holding up well. There is one 5p-sized bubble in the paint on the lower offside panel (pictured) but that’s it. The paint has a good shine, all the rubbers look to be in good condition (in fact, the doors need a good slam to send them home - the rubbers haven’t been rushed into submission). The roof, as we mentioned earlier, closes and seals properly, too.
The glass is in good condition across the car, with no scratches or other signs of neglect present. The wheels, which are the wide-stud Abarth items, are in good general condition and all wear recent rubber. The bumpers are solid, too. There is a bit of age to them, but nothing you would consider neglect.
Under the bonnet, there is a new fuel tank, and looking into the corser and recesses we were greeted with nothing but clean paint. There’s no moisture in there, nor any sign of any significant rust. It’s all very solid indeed.
The engine has been upgraded to a 695 unit based on that of the later 126, meaning it has a bit more grunt. Balanced and ported, it’s been serviced from top to bottom with new fluid, filters, belts and all gaskets and as such, now starts on the button. An attractive Abarth sump has been fitted, which can be seen peeking out from under the rear. The sporty exhaust gives the characterful little two-pot engine an agreeable rasp as the revs build.
The four-speed manual transmission with no synchro on first has been rebuilt, as has all the suspension along with the steering box. The shocks have been replaced, the brakes (drum all round) have been stripped and rebuilt, the wheels wear new rubber and as such, this little car is well and truly dialled in. It is a fun, cheeky little thing to drive. One of those cars you feel connected to and a part of.
It’s just a fun little thing, isn’t it? And honestly, who wouldn’t want a bit of that in their lives? This car has been given a thorough restoration that has included some lovely little nods to Abarth like the engine modifications, the wheels and the graphics on either flank of the car. It’s a happy, cheerful little machine that is in excellent shape.
The Fiat 500 is one of those cars that will always be popular. There is always a market for them, as this auction will do doubt prove. Okay, so in essence, this one is a modified example, but is that a bad thing? We don’t think so. There are plenty of standard cars out there, but there are few that have been tweaked such as this. Plus, an actual Abarth would be triple the price. This tribute, if you will, will be affordable but all while being just as much fun.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the sellers discretion.
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