DESCRIPTION
If ever an automobile symbolised Italy, it would be Fiat’s charming 500 Cinquecento, a car that has reached cult status around the world and inspired the current retro-styled model. Launched as the Nuova 500 in 1957 and succeeding the massively popular Topolino, the Fiat provided mass transportation for millions of Italians and ultimately remained in production for the best part of twenty years. Build quality on these early cars was somewhat suspect but improved markedly with the 500D of 1960, as did performance thanks to the increase in capacity of the air-cooled twin-cylinder engine from 479cc to 499cc (with 18 horsepower on tap). The 500F produced from 1965 until 1972 saw the biggest changes yet, with front-hinged doors replacing the suicide doors of the original, deeper windscreens, thicker pillars and a taller bodyshell to improve safety and interior space. With a modified carburettor pushing out an additional one horsepower, performance reached new heights and the 500F was capable of a genuine 100km/h. The tiny Fiat could be found squeezed into the most unlikely parking spaces on any street in Rome, Naples or Milan for years but now are sadly becoming all too rare both in Italy and elsewhere and good survivors have long been regarded as collectible by enthusiasts around the world.

HISTORY
- Stunning example of Fiat’s charming Nuova 500
- Bare metal restoration recently completed
- Tastefully upgraded mechanicals

Previously located in Queensland before passing to the current NSW owner in 2009, this stunning Fiat 500F – one of the nicest Cinquecento’s we’ve seen - has been treated to a ground-up restoration and presents in fabulous cosmetic and mechanical condition. The body was taken back to bare metal, any rust removed before being repainted, while the engine was bored out to 650cc, bigger inlet and exhaust valves fitted along with adjustable aluminium pushrod tubes, a hotter camshaft, an Abarth 4-litre alloy sump and a 35mm Solex side draught carburettor with a special manifold made to suit. Other mechanical upgrades include electronic ignition, a sports muffler and Koni shock absorbers at the rear, along with an oversize driveshaft. The interior has been completely re-trimmed in contrasting red upholstery,all rubbers were replaced and a new fabric roof fitted, along with a wood-rimmed steering wheel. Lowered slightly, the Fiat rides on a set of Abarth-type mag wheels shod with fresh rubber and is now ready for the new owner to simply drive away and enjoy, the perfect ride for Cars & Coffee or the many Italian car events held around the country. Currently registered on non-transferable club plates in NSW, the car will therefore be sold unregistered.

Note: Shannons advise that all potential buyers research all vehicles before purchase to authenticate originality.