"In the spring of 1960, a Giardiniera (gardener) estate had been added to the 500 range. Built on a four-inch longer wheelbase than the other model produced, the Giardiniera featured a single side-hinged rear door and carried its engine horizontally beneath the rear load platform, thus increasing available luggage space. Testing a Giardiniera in 1961, Autocar magazine was mightily impressed by FIAT’s new baby: ‘The Italians match their affinity with micro-motoring to a happy flair for making little cars really well, and within the limitations of its body dimensions and engine power the Giardiniera is a real masterpiece.’ The miniature estate was found capable of carrying four adults and 2.5cwt of luggage (alternatively, one adult and 4cwt) while returning an impressive 46.8mpg over 1,000 miles. From the spring of 1968 Giardiniera production was transferred to Autobianchi and finally ceased in 1977.
This lovely example is presented in white with red and white interior and has the benefit of a black foldback sunroof. The car was recently imported to the UK where it was first registered with the registration it bares today and formed part of a private collection, from which the present owner purchased from. This suicide door estate with the circular speedometer is rare to find and highly sought after by the Fiat aficionados and collectors alike. The car is presented with a current MoT test certificate which expires in October 2021, original service book from Italy and photos of the car post restoration. A great little car which is practical and fun!
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