Rare factory right-hand-drive example, delivered new in Rome, Italy
Purchased directly from its original long-term Italian owner
Restoration completed in September 2021
Engine rebuilt and uprated to 650cc by De Filippis Racing, Rome
History file with more than 25 restoration invoices and photographic documentation
Synchronised Gearbox
The Appeal
The Fiat 500L Lusso, introduced in 1968, was the most refined iteration of the iconic Nuova 500. Chrome bumpers with overriders, improved seating, upgraded switchgear and a more sophisticated dashboard elevated the beloved Cinquecento into something altogether more comfortable, without sacrificing any of its irresistible charm. Finding a well-restored example today is a challenge; finding one with a provenance story like this is something else entirely.
This 1970 example is a genuine factory right-hand-drive car that was never exported to Britain. Instead, it was delivered new to its first owner in Rome, who acquired it through a family connection at the Fiat factory after his original left-hand-drive 500 was stolen. A cancelled UK-market production slot provided the opportunity, and the car remained in Italy for decades, enjoying dry-climate storage rather than the harsher conditions typically endured by UK-delivered examples. It was later purchased directly from that original owner, preserving a clear chain of custody, and recovered from a Rome condominium basement garage: a process documented by YouTube channel Adriano Classic Garage.
The car subsequently underwent a thorough restoration over approximately twelve months, completed in September 2021. The body was fully dismantled and media blasted before being refinished in the period-correct Blu Turchese. Prior to the bodywork, the engine was entrusted to De Filippis Racing in Rome for a rebuild and sympathetic upgrade to 650cc specification, while the braking system was overhauled, the front suspension rebuilt and four new shock absorbers fitted.
Accompanying the car is a detailed history file containing invoices documenting virtually every stage of the restoration, alongside original Italian registration documents, historic Italian inspection records and photographic documentation spanning discovery through to completion. For anyone seeking a Cinquecento with documented history and a story worth telling, this one is well worth serious consideration.DSC09083 Sam Halligan.JPG5.02 MB
Key Information
Mileage: 66.762 km (indicated)
Country of registration: United Kingdom (originally delivered in Italy)
Technical inspection status: MOT/road tax exempt
Technical specs: air-cooled twin-cylinder petrol uprated to 650cc, four-speed manual transmission
Paperwork: UK V5C (one registered keeper), original Italian registration documents, historic Italian inspection records, more than 25 restoration invoices, photographic documentation
The vehicle is not confirmed as registered with the Automotoclub Storico Italiano
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