Description
A replacement for FIAT’s much-loved 500 ‘Topolino’, the Nuova 500 debuted in 1957. A radical departure from its predecessor’s essentially pre-war design, FIAT’s new baby featured unitary construction, an opening fabric roof and all-independent suspension while carrying its engine at the rear. Introduced in 1968 alongside the standard 500F, the deluxe 500L, while mechanically identical, came with exterior cosmetic enhancements and an improved interior featuring new instrument panel, seats and floor covering.
An immense success for FIAT, almost 3,000,000 of these adorable little cars had been sold when production ceased in 1975. The original FIAT 500 remains as popular today as it ever was, and recently was voted ‘Sexiest Car’ by the readers of Top Gear magazine.
This lovely Lusso model has been in the ownership of just three private keepers from new, and more recently has enjoyed a thorough two-year body-off restoration. Repairs were made to the bodywork as required, the paint was refinished inside and out, the engine and gearbox rebuilt, the interior re-trimmed and all brightwork re-chromed or replaced. The braking system was overhauled, the lighting system replaced, as were the front and rear windscreens, and new tyres fitted on each corner.
Showing 58,000 kilometres which is believed to be correct, this is a bright and beautiful example of an enduring classic.
