18 hp, 499.5 cc two-cylinder engine, Solex carburetor, four-speed manual transmission, independent transverse leaf front and independent coil spring and semi-trailing arm rear suspension, and four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 72.4"

• Expert restoration

• The quintessential Cinquecento

• Italy’s iconic micro car

From the time the Nuova 500, or as it is known throughout the world, the ‘Cinquecento,’ was launched in 1957, it was wildly popular. Millions of Italians first took to the road in four-wheel transport behind the wheel of one of these diminutive Fiats during the period of economic recovery that defined postwar Italy. During its production life, the 500 was steadily developed, and the 1965 introduction of the 500F came with front hinged doors, an uprated 18 horsepower engine, a more durable driveshaft, differential, and clutch, and a more powerful heater.

This 500F, known to the family of the consignor as ‘Bibiana,’ resided in the same small Italian town for decades and was formerly in the long-term ownership of one Alessia Nammicini, from whom the vendor purchased the car in 2011. A complete restoration was then done by a small family-owned restoration shop in Liguria, Italy, which does fewer than 10 projects per year. Taken down to bare metal, any traces of corrosion were repaired, and it was painted to a show-quality level. All bright trim has been re-plated or polished, and the interior has been completely redone in correct factory finishes and colors. Mechanically, the transmission has been rebuilt and all new brakes, clutch, and wiring loom have been fitted.

Many consider the 500F the best model of the Cinquecento, as it combines the uprated mechanicals with the early-type dashboard and simple seats, which give the proper vintage appearance. It is difficult to imagine that ‘Bibiana’ looked better when she first left the Fiat factory in 1967 than she does now.