21 SAE hp, 499.5 cc rear-mounted air-cooled inline two-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with transverse leaf spring and wishbones, independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms and coil springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 72.4 in.

• A fully equipped left-hand drive example

• Restored to better-than-new condition

• Outstanding mechanical condition and ready to be enjoyed

Fiat, long known for producing inexpensive, efficient cars, surprised the automotive community in 1957 with an all-new 500 model that was even smaller than its predecessor, the beloved Topolino (Little Mouse). Designed by Dante Giacosa, the 500 Nuova, or “Cinquecento,” much like the Volkswagen’s Beetle, featured an economical air-cooled rear-engine design. While purpose-built for practicality and limited in top speed, its compact dimensions and fully independent suspension made it a joy to drive.

Introduced with an air-cooled 479-cubic centimeter two-cylinder engine that was later upgraded to 499.5 cubic centimeters, the Cinquecento received various technical modifications over the course of its healthy 18-year production run, while styling remained essentially unchanged. Importation to the U.S.A. continued through 1961. The “F” variant arrived for 1965 with several changes, including front-hinged doors, a slight power increase, and other detail updates, mainly to the heater and driveline.

This charming left-hand drive 500 from 1970 is exquisitely restored and is in excellent condition throughout. It is finished in a striking burgundy and features a black folding sunroof and a full leather interior with a maroon dashboard, two-tone maroon and white seats, and black carpets piped in red. It is also equipped with a modern aftermarket dash-mounted stereo system. It is powered by a proper 499.5-cubic centimeter air-cooled engine that is reported to be in excellent running condition. The owner, an east coast collector and enthusiast, reports that the Fiat is ready to go and will delight, as it is “over restored” in many ways, and it represents a bargain for the next owner, given the cost of restoration. This 1970 Fiat 500 is a stylish Italian classic with great driving dynamics wrapped in one affordable, chic, and very fun package!