Beskrivning
The original 500, commonly known as ‘Topolino’ (Italian for ‘Little Mouse’) was launched in 1936, and manufactured in Turin, Italy. One of the smallest cars in the world at the time, it still managed to become a staple of Italian life for many. A practical, economical and charming vehicle that started the famous ‘500’ line of vehicles from FIAT.
This particular vehicle was built at the request of a woman travelling with her husband in Sicily. Upon seeing the Topolino’s on the road, she went directly to the factory and asked if they would be able to build one in Right Hand Drive - They could - And the vehicle was subsequently built and shipped to Southampton as what I believe to be the first factory RHD Topolino.
In 2012, it changed hands and was in need of restoration. Over 3000 hours went into rebuilding this car into the stunning Topolino that you see today - Every part of the car was overhauled, and great lengths were taken to maintain as much originality as possible, down to re-registering the car with the original registration, which has been on this vehicle for now 88 years. After restoration, it gathered a huge amount of attention, starring in numerous news articles and FIAT owners literature - Now one of only 4 1937 Topolino’s still registered, and a rare factory RHD car, this beautiful FIAT is now ready to be enjoyed and shown by it’s new owner!
Exterior
The vehicle is presented in a yellow / red colour combination with cream soft top. Paintwork is presentable and solid, with some chipping / signs of wear in places commensurate with a restoration from 2012. The soft top is in great condition with no stains or tears, and operates perfectly - Ready for the summer! Wheels and brightwork shine exceptionally well, and everything works as it should.
A very presentable car, that hides it’s age of 88 years extremely well! A car that gathers a huge amount of attention everywhere that it goes.
Interior
The interior is in exceptional condition - Carpets, seats, dash etc all perfect without marks. Indicators (Pop out), and all internal controls operate exactly as expected.
Mechanical
Mechanically very strong. The engine was also overhauled throughout the restoration and this shows - She fires up and drives exactly as expected. Gears shift well for a non syncro gearbox and all drum brakes operate as expected. The unique design that incorporated the radiator behind the engine allowed for a curved nose at a time where all cars were flat fronted, and really makes the car stand out amongst it’s contemporaries.
History
The car comes with a huge history - This includes a notebook detailing the full restoration of the vehicle, as well as invoices, receipts and paperwork directly from FIAT heritage confirming vehicle information. Multiple workshop manuals are provided, along with some extremely rare manuals from 1937. Multiple news articles which feature the car are provided, as well as a photo album and USB stick with photo’s throughout the restoration is provided.
2 former keepers on V5 (Was re-registered when restored)
Tax & MOT Exempt
HPI Clear
Photo album highlighting build phases throughout the restoration
Large number of Invoices present
Original workshop manuals
News articles featuring the vehicle
Walk around video available. National Delivery can be arranged. Part Exchange Welcome. Viewing strictly by appointment.
While we try and take the time to describe the car as thoroughly as possible, as always with a classic car there are quirks that cannot reasonably uncovered by us here - Although, it’s these quirks that make us fall in love with classic cars! Please do consider this when purchasing a classic vehicle.
