Specifications:
17hp, 499cc two-cylinder engine, four-speed unsynchronized manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension, and four-wheel drum brakes.
Wheelbase: 72.4in. (1,840mm).

Fiat, long known for producing inexpensive, efficient cars, surprised the automotive community in 1957 with a 500 model that was even smaller than its predecessor, the Topolino. Designed by Dante Giacosa, the 500 Nuova, or 'Cinquecento', much like the Volkswagen Beetle, featured an economical rear-engine design purpose-built for practicality.

Initially introduced with a 479cc two-cylinder engine, the Cinquecento lived through various technical modifications over the course of its healthy 18-year production run but styling remained essentially unchanged. The Nuova, with its sunroof that extended the entire length of the car, was replaced in 1960 with the 500D. The primary difference between the two was a larger 499cc engine, previously used on the Sport models, which produced an additional 4 horsepower. The rear-hinged doors and basic design remained the same, however. The diminutive 500D was very enjoyable to drive and, above all, tremendously practical.

The car offered here is a left-hand drive Fiat 500D, exported new to France in 1962. The car has been repainted and, although certainly not of show quality, the finish of the red paint is generally good. The fit of the panels and the original chrome and brightwork is of the same quality but ageing is evident in the weather stripping. The tyres, on the other hand, are excellent and nearly new. Reproduction parts were also used on the matching restored, red interior; the seat kits and carpeting both appear to be new. The odometer reads 46,730, which might very well be the car's original mileage. Despite evident signs of road usage, the engine compartment is fairly clean. Similar evidence of road usage is visible on the undercarriage but the front compartment is clean, spare tyre and all.

The Fiat 500, in its size and construction, remains a particularly practical driver. Regardless of its simplicity, however, it has always been a staple of Italian culture and big city living and, with the introduction of Fiat's revived 500 for 2007, has solidified its position as a bona fide classic in its own right.