The Fiat 600 , launched in 1955 , formed the blueprint for the slightly smaller but very popular Nuova 500 , introduced in 1957. When the production of the 500 ceased in 1975 nearly 4 million cars had left various plants. It came in a wide variety of bodies and styles.
The production of the 500K, a people carrier, named the Giardiniera, started in 1960 at the Fiat plant before being transferred in 1966 to Autobianchi, belonging to the Fiat Group. Its 499cc engine, known as the Type 120.000, had a redesigned cooling system and was positioned horizontally, allowing a bigger and flat cargo space. The car had a longer wheelbase, a stronger suspension and the brakes from the Fiat 600. The air intake was also relocated to the two rear C pillars.
But very few cars that Fiat produced had the cuteness of the 500 Jolly. It was the idea of Fiat's Chairman Agnelli who asked his team in 1957 to create a light beach car he could take on board of his yacht . The result , starting with a Fiat 600, was an open-air doorless design with wicker seats and a removable fabric canopy to protect the passengers for the Mediterranean sun. By doing so , Giovanni Agnelli was unknowingly what we call now "an influencer". Wealthy seaside dwellers also wanted one to use in their resorts for short errands or to bring on their boats. The luxury coach builder, Carrozzeria Ghia, was commissioned to make a small series , initially based on the 600 and subsequently on 500 and the Giardiniera , costing almost double than the standard car. Approximately 500-650 cars were made, depending on the source.
Therefore alternatives were offered later by other coach builders , based on new or used donor cars.
Our example was made in the 70's by Autobianchi. It was not originally a "Jolly" model but the donor was a genuine long wheel base 1970 Giardiniera. When discovered it was fairly complete , had a correct engine type 120.000 , but was in need of everything. The previous owner started a meticulous ground up restoration to match the original design and left no screw untouched. The result , in its pastel mint green color, is a car that is as cute as a button, ready to steal the hearts of many admirers or simply a must-have for a car collector. There is absolutely no need to own a super yacht or a villa in Portofino to appreciate the Jolly's by-the-sea styling.
The Belgian title, which is an administrative mistake, shows 1961 as its first registration.