Description
There are some cars, that are so intrinsically weaved in the fabric of their home country that they transcend a mere form of transportation. The VW Beetle, The Classic Mini and the Fiat 500 are cars that were all built in huge numbers across expansive production runs, yet their cultural impact has not been diminished. For many, a Cinquicento is a core part of living La Dolce Vita, It’s as Italian as Pasta. It’s a national treasure.
This 500 F is one of the nearly 4, 000, 000 million examples produced. It was built in December of 1967 at the Mirafiori factory, just outside Turin. It remained in Italy for 50 years, before being imported to the UK in 2017.
Upon arrival, it was clear that some recommissioning work was required. To ensure the car's safe return to the road, a new fuel tank was fitted, new tyres, a new sunroof and a full interior retrim. As well as some key upgrades including front disc brakes, electronic ignition and inertia reel seatbelts.
Externally, the car is finished in solid Beige - the paintwork is in very good condition and is complemented by a raft of replacement brightwork. The exterior is enhanced by a period-correct luggage rack with tan leather straps that adorn the engine cover and the white wall Michelin XZX tyres.
Inside the Nuova 500’s basic charm stands out, the bright red upholstery in perfect shape and contrasts the colour-coded steel dashboard perfectly. Open up the fold-back sunroof and flood the cabin with light and you’ll be able to enjoy the charm of the Veglia speedometer. Unlikely the slightly later 500L the F retains the traditional simplistic interior.
The engine bay is equally as tidy as the exterior, a new coil, fuel pump, carburettor and the aforementioned electronic ignition ensure that it’s reliable too. The engine is a 499cc unit, producing around 18bhp. The engine has remained carefully maintained with regular servicing and maintenance, including the removal of the transmission to replace a leaky input shaft seal.
Tax, MOT and ULEZ exempt, the plucky Fiat could be the ultimate city car. The underground is busy, cramped and uncomfortable, but imagine getting across town in a flash with the sunroof open. Small enough to park anywhere, with a big enough personality to get you in anywhere. If you want a slice of the good life, you need a 500.
As with all our vehicles, a full digital folder is available on request containing more images, walk-around videos, and scans of the service history. The car can also be viewed by appointment at our West London showroom.
