The number of passers-by who stopped to chat about this car as we carried out our photoshoot was frankly incredible. If you’re after a joyful classic that seems to be loved by everyone, then look no further—it’s right here.

 Based on the iconic Fiat 500, the Gamine is a quirky two-seat roadster built by Carrozzeria Vignale from 1967 to ’71. Using the characterful, entertaining twin-cylinder engine from the 500 Sport, Vignale’s tasteful and elegant styling turned the Italian runabout into a playful open tourer.

 What’s particularly significant about the car we have here is that it’s a true right-hand-drive example. A previous owner went all-in in 2015, commissioning a thorough restoration that’s documented in the history file with photographic evidence. The body was given a quality bare-metal repaint, the chrome trim was replaced, and the interior was reupholstered. The engine was rebuilt, and the gearbox was upgraded to a more user-friendly synchro unit. It also comes with the full wet-weather setup, making this a charming retro treat you can actually use year-round.

 

 

 

The Gamine’s restoration has been carried out to an exceptionally high standard, and the gleaming red paint is vivid and energizing. The chrome trim is all present and correct, and it’s in lovely condition; the light lenses and window glass are also in good shape. The 12-inch steel wheels wear the correct matching hubcaps, along with a set of quality Pirelli Cinturato tires with plenty of tread.

 The cabin is endearingly simple, with tastefully trimmed seats and neat carpets. The stalks, dials, and dash lights all appear to be in proper working order. Everything is dry and tidy in the front boot, where you can also find the tonneau cover.

 The car also benefits from the full wet-weather gear, including a soft-top and side panels. Everything stows underneath a cover behind the seats; it’s simple to raise, attach, and lower, and is all in great condition.
 
 

 

As part of the restoration, the 500 Sport-spec air-cooled twin-cylinder motor was rebuilt, and from the photos you can see just how clean and impressively detailed it is. The engine fires up readily, settles into a smooth, even idle, and pulls through the revs with the right kind of enthusiasm. It’s also important to note that this car has been treated to an upgraded synchro gearbox, which is much easier to operate and makes city driving a breeze. The car rides well on its supple suspension, and the steering and brakes are all in good order.
 
 

 

 
Perhaps the most entertaining thing about this Gamine is that, with the low-cut body shape and the playful buzzing of the twin-cylinder motor, it almost feels like you’re piloting a speedboat. It’s genuinely a blast—exactly what this car was built for. It’s also a rare little gem: Vignale built only around 700–800 of these, and the number of bona fide right-hand-drive examples is vanishingly small. With its outstanding restoration and real-world usability, this Gamine is an extremely attractive proposition indeed.
 
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: 

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions. 

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it’s customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 

✓ 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. 

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. 

✓ We also  check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and  it’s always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer. 

✓Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection 

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand. If requested we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com