The classic Fiat 500 is a beloved Italian icon and a true testament to the phrase "good things come in small packages." With its compact design, quirky character, and iconic style, the Fiat 500 is a car that's sure to put a smile on your face. Whether you're looking for a fun city runabout, a stylish weekend cruiser, or a quirky addition to your car collection, the Fiat 500 has something to offer.
Let's take a look at the different model variants of the classic Fiat 500:
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The Fiat Nuova 500 (1957-1960): This was the first model of the Fiat 500, and it's often referred to as the "little Italian bubble." With its rounded body and tiny dimensions, the Nuova 500 was designed to be the ultimate city car. These early models are rare and highly sought after by collectors, so if you're lucky enough to find one in good condition, hold on tight to it. The car featured a 479cc engine with a Weber 24 carburettor, "suicide doors" and quirky large side indicators. The front panel was market by an iconic "moustache logo" and small tail lights with an aluminium surround wrapping them.
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The Fiat 500D (1960-1965): The 500D was the second model of the Fiat 500 and marked a significant evolution from the Nuova 500. With its longer wheelbase and updated interior, the 500D was more practical and comfortable than its predecessor. This model is often referred to as the "long-tail" Fiat 500, and it's a popular choice for classic car enthusiasts.
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The Fiat 500F (1965-1972): The 500F was the third model of the Fiat 500 and marked another evolution in the car's design. With its more angular body and updated interior, the 500F was more refined and stylish than the previous models. This model is often referred to as the "old lady" Fiat 500, but don't let its nickname fool you - it's a charming and stylish classic car that's sure to turn heads. The exterior featured retained the iconic 'moustache' look that was already featuring on the D and the N (this time in plastic).
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The Fiat 500L (1968-1972): The 500L was the fourth model of the Fiat 500 and marked yet another evolution in the car's design, inside and out. Around the cabin, the 500L was furnished with additional plastic covers (e.g., on the dashboard, around the door and window handles) giving it a more refined look. Other changes to the interior included a new, rectangular speedometer. Upholstery, including door cards, were offered with a new 'ribbed' design with darker tints of red (closer to burgundy) black and saddle brown. The exterior was embellished with new bumper trims - a long pipe running across the front bumper, and two corner ones for the rear one - and featured new tail lights with round designs on the lenses. This model is often referred to as the "Luxury Fiat 500," and it's a popular choice for families who want a classic car that's practical and fun to drive. A new front panel featured a rectangular nook, housing the redesigned Fiat logo.
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The Fiat 500R (1971-1973): The 500R was the final model of the classic Fiat 500, and it marked a departure from the previous models. With its sportier suspension, larger engine, and updated styling, the 500R was designed to be a more performance-focused option compared to its predecessors. This model is often referred to as the "hot hatch" of the classic Fiat 500, and it's a popular choice for performance-minded classic car enthusiasts. Design updates included the return of a round dial - this time painted in black - with an exposed dashboard of the same colour of the vehicle, as well as full-tint seat trims (akin those of the F variant) and a new front panel with a badge spelling out FIAT. The bumper trims, introduced on the L model were removed.
- The Fiat 500 Giardiniera (1960-1977): The 500 Giardiniera is a unique variant of the classic Fiat 500, known for its distinctive wagon-style body and increased interior space. This model was designed for those who needed a practical and versatile vehicle for daily use or for weekend getaways. The Giardiniera was available in both wagon and van variants and is known for its practicality and versatility.