Description
Fiat/ Autobianchi 500 Giardiniera in white with red vinyl interior. Recognisable by many as the estate version of the ever popular Fiat 500. Around 3. 9m Fiat 500’s were produced, with only 33, 000 of them in the Giardiniera model, making it incredibly rare. The majority of those that remain in existence are left hand drive, which makes this right drive example even more exclusive.
BACKGROUND
This Giardiniera was built and imported new into the UK in 1969 by Abarth tuning company, Radbourne Racing in London, to RHD UK specification. It was used as a support vehicle by Radbourne during their ownership. It has a total of just 6 owners, the last of whom has loved and cherished the vehicle for over 9 years and spent thousands in maintaining the appearance that can be seen today. In 54 years, the vehicle has covered a warranted mileage of just 57285miles. The speedo was replaced in 2004 when it failed at 56855miles and was replaced with a donor speedo which was displaying c41, 000miles at the time (supported fully by MOT history). Since then, the vehicle has covered less than 2, 000miles. The vehicle comes completed with 2 sets of keys, the original stamped service book, the owners workshop manual, the original tool kit and a folder full of receipts and old MOTs.
MECHANICAL
Fiat installed the same two-cylinder engine as the one from the regular 500 D. It was paired to a standard four-speed manual gearbox. Unlike its sibling, it featured stiffer suspension to cope better with heavier loads in the back. The two-cylinder 499cc air cooled engine, produced 17. 5hp and could reach speeds of up to 59mph. Unlike the Fiat 500 saloon, the Giardiniera had the engine laid on its side under the rear floor to create a load platform with power delivered to the rear wheels. The Giardiniera’s engine is easy to access and has plenty of space around it to work on if required.
The absence of a synchromesh, necessitates double-declutching when changing gear.
Routine maintenance has been aplenty on this lovely Fiat, which truly shows when enjoying a drive up the road.
EXTERIOR
Professionally restored in 2016 by well known restoration specialists, Rees Bros, with a £9, 000 receipt for the works completed. The Giardiniera presents exceptionally well today, with no signs of rust or corrosion. Images of the restoration work completed are available on request. The underside has been wax oiled whilst in our possession for future preventative maintenance. The suicide doors open and close on the hinges correctly and the shut lines are as factory intended. The black canvas roof is in excellent condition and opens/ closes as it should.
INTERIOR
Due to its longer cabin, the Giardiniera was considerably more comfortable and spacious than its little brother the 500. The metallic dash panel sported a speedometer and a few warning lights for fuel, charging, and oil pressure. The 4 seats presented in the beautiful red vinyl are in excellent condition with little sign of wear. The dashboard, door trims and fitted Fiat rubber mats are in equally great condition.
You’ll be hard pushed to find another RHD Giardiniera that is anything like as nice as this one and with such excellent provenance.
Absolutely any inspection welcome
Part exchange considered
Delivery by arrangement
3 Month Warranty (terms & conditions apply)
12 Months MOT
For updates of new stock please join us on Facebook and Instagram. For details of our other services, please visit our website – - details above
