Highlights
- Solid and original 500L in great colour
- Desirable L features including front and rear nudge bars
- Folding sunroof one of the joys of these tiny cars
- Well preserved original bodywork and interior
The Appeal
The Fiat 500 showed that practical and functional didn’t have to be boring. The Tardis-like four seater was as nippy as it was tiny.
From its introduction in 1957 Italian cities buzzed to the sound of 500s zipping and zagging through narrow gaps and cobbled streets. The fundamental design didn’t change – although various different bodystyles were spun off it – but Fiat did continually improve the 500 through its long production life.
One of the biggest changes came in 1965 with the 500F, which swapped the rear-hinged ‘suicide’ doors for more conventional front hinged items. In 1968 those seeking a – marginally – more luxurious city car experience could buy the 500L. It added chrome nudge bars – all the better for encouraging pedestrians on their way – and an anti-glare dashboard. They are also notable for switching the original round speedo for the more ‘de rigour’ rectangular item.
This characterful 500L retains all those factory features and comes to us in what appears to be largely original condition. Exuding all the charisma and joy of these delightful little cars, it looks ready to jump in, twist the key and get zipping and zagging.
The History and Paperwork
- We understand that this car was first registered in 1970
- Chassis records indicate that it was built in late 1969
- Unfortunately we do not know any further history on this car
- Regrettably we do not have visibility of the service and maintenance record
- The car appears to be an older restoration with evidence of respray
The Interior
- Very original interior in highly well kept condition
- ‘Luxurious’ 500L trim with anti-glare dashboard, strip speedo and ‘leatherette’ style trim
- Faux leather black vinyl seats and door cards well preserved with no visible damage
- Original one-piece factory floor mat across front footwell and centre console
- L specification cubby box in centre console
- Tidy ‘frunk’ area with spare wheel and tools
- Lovely Veglia strip speed appears original and shows clear plastic shroud and decals
- Barely any other switchgear or fascia equipment, but what there is looks good
- Factory two-spoke black plastic steering wheel with late 1960s Fiat branding
- Trim for headlining and sides presents very well with no visible damage
The Exterior
- Well presented and solid bodywork with no visible corrosion or cracks
- The joy of this little car is surely its character of age, reflected in the exterior condition
- Appears to be an older restoration with evidence of respray on some screen rubbers
- There are a few discreet chips and marks but arguably these are part of its charm
- Original factory L fittings including nudge bars and later hub caps
- Duvit glasswork appears to be original
- Chromework likely original and showing light tarnishing and patina
- Some of the respray work displays orange peel when viewed up close
- Classic Fiat 500 folding sunroof with clean aperture fittings and undamaged vinyl
- Underside appears to be solid and with no issues to report
The Mechanics
- 499cc air cooled twin cylinder Fiat engine
- 4spd manual gearbox with synchromesh on 2nd, 3rd and 4th
- Unfortunately we did not have sight of the service and maintenance record prior to listing
Summary
The Fiat 500 is enjoying something of a renaissance, not just due to Fiat launching a new version but also its appeal in a world where city restrictions on modern cars are increasing.
Many have been restored so it is a joy to discover this one, which displays many of its original features. If your requirements stretch to a fun and economical classic city car that is inexpensive to maintain, look no further.
BEFORE YOU BUY
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email auctions@carandclassic.com. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
