Introduced in July 1957, the Fiat Nuova 500 was a complete departure from its predecessor, the 500 “Topolino,” and would revolutionize transportation in Italy and beyond. Diminutive, affordable, practical, and easy to maintain yet also stylish, it was built on an all-new, rear-engine unibody chassis that was deceptively accommodating and featured independent suspension. Priced for the typical blue-collar salary, the Nuova 500 did not take off initially, overshadowed by the success of the larger Fiat 600 and hampered by an underpowered two-cylinder engine and Spartan interior with only two seats.

Fiat corrected course quickly, unveiling an improved model mere months later at the 1957 Turin Motor Show in October. Called the Nuova 500 Normale, it featured a rear seat, chrome trim, improved window operation, more power, aluminum wheel covers, and the same low price of the launch model, which Fiat also kept in the lineup as the Nuova 500 Economica, but at an even lower price.

In 1958, Fiat added a more powerful Sport model that eschewed the open roof of the original design for improved rigidity. It would provide the basis for highly successful competition models, including ones famously modified by Abarth. The Nuova 500 evolved into the 500 D in 1960, featuring rear-hinged doors, a smaller roof opening, and a more potent engine with only marginally less displacement and power than the 500 Sport. For those set on the extended open roof of the original Nuova 500, Fiat created the 500 D Trasformabile, an example of which is offered here.

Sold new in Terni, Italy, in September 1964, it is said to have benefited from a restoration completed under prior ownership in 2016. The lovely combination of Verde Acquamarina over a red interior is well suited to the model’s lovable lines. Trasformabile models are sought-after for their extended open roof, making this example, under present ownership since 2021, an excellent choice for anyone seeking a whimsical classic runabout or collection piece.