Description
Fully Restored · Upgraded 650cc Engine · Unique Roman Provenance
The Fiat 500 is one of the most recognisable and beloved automobiles of the 20th century – a symbol of post-war Italian ingenuity, charm, and everyday mobility. Introduced as an affordable city car, the Cinquecento quickly became woven into the fabric of Italian life, and few cars evoke La Dolce Vita quite so effortlessly.
This 1970 Fiat 500L Lusso is an exceptionally rare and fascinating example, not only for its condition and restoration quality, but for its remarkable original history.
A unique right-hand-drive Italian story
Although built as a right-hand-drive model, this car was never exported to the UK. Instead, it was delivered new in central Rome, purchased by its first owner after his left-hand-drive Fiat 500 was stolen. Through a family connection at the Fiat factory, he was able to secure a UK-market order that had been cancelled, and accepted the unusual compromise of a right-hand-drive car – remaining in Italy for its entire early life.
This creates a genuinely rare scenario:
a right-hand-drive Fiat 500 that has lived exclusively in Italy, benefiting from a far more favourable climate than most RHD examples, which were typically subjected to the harsher conditions of the UK. The result is a car that combines rarity with excellent long-term preservation.
The vehicle was purchased directly from its original owner, Claudio Di Mario, further strengthening its provenance.
Model overview – the Fiat 500L “Lusso”
The 500L, introduced in 1968, represented the most refined evolution of the classic Cinquecento. “Lusso” – meaning luxury — brought subtle yet important upgrades, including revised bumpers, enhanced chrome detailing, redesigned hubcaps and a more comfortable interior. It retained all the charm and simplicity of the original 500, but with a more polished and elegant presentation.
Mechanical rebuild by De Filippis Racing, Rome
Prior to restoration, the original engine was comprehensively rebuilt by De Filippis Racing in Rome, a respected specialist, to an uprated 650cc specification, significantly improving drivability while retaining period correctness.
The engine work included:
Complete engine overhaul
Enlarged pistons and cylinders to 650cc
New upgraded Fiat 126 cylinder head with larger valves
Sport camshaft
Reconditioned engine block and crankshaft
New bearings, seals, ignition components and clutch
Carburettor modification and full mechanical inspection
In addition, the braking system was fully overhauled with new brake lines, the front suspension renewed, four new shock absorbers fitted, a new battery installed, and a full general mechanical recommissioning completed.
Full restoration and presentation
Following the mechanical work, the car underwent a complete restoration, including full disassembly of the body and media blasting to ensure a correct and lasting finish. The car is now presented in the wonderfully period-correct Blu Turchese (Turquoise Blue) – a colour that perfectly suits the cheerful yet elegant character of the 500L.
The restoration has been carried out with care and restraint, respecting originality while ensuring the car is reliable, usable and beautifully finished throughout.
A rare and joyful classic
This Fiat 500L offers something truly special:
A genuine Italian-market car with known first ownership
An exceptionally rare RHD configuration
Long-term preservation in a favourable climate
A fully rebuilt and uprated engine
A complete restoration finished to a high standard
It is a car that brings instant smiles, whether displayed in a collection or enjoyed exactly as intended – gliding through city streets on a sunny afternoon.
For collectors and enthusiasts seeking a Fiat 500 that stands apart from the norm, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully restored example with a story that is as charming as the car itself.
Worldwide shipping available.
Please contact us for further details, documentation, or viewing arrangements
