Fiat 500
ENGINE 499cc/2-cyl/OHV POWER 18bhp@4600rpm TORQUE 22lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 60mph 0-60mph N/A FUEL CONSUMPTION 39-49mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months ODOMETER 44,550 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? BODYWORK CHECK
This car was restored in Italy, mostly to a high standard, though the nearside door window trim is starting to come loose, likewise the door seal (which leaves some ugly adhesive exposed), and the bottom of the door doesn’t quite sit flush with the body.. The new Bianco paint has no scratches or runs and there are no dents in the body. The 12in steel wheels are undamaged and there are tears or cracks in the hood. We found no corrosion but a fresh coat of underseal would be advisable.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Bellissima! All the red and cream vinyl was renewed during the restoration, so the seats and door trim are immaculate. There’s not much in the way of electrics and gauges, but it all works and the doors and windows open easily on their chunky, free-moving mechanisms. The footwells are protected with new rubber matting, and the freshly painted dash is unscratched.
UNDER THE BONNET
The rear engine bay is topped off by what appears to be a brand new exhaust, and the engine itself is spotless, with new hoses and gaskets and no obvious leaks. Unfortunately there are a few further traces of the same mucky adhesive used for the failing door seals around the boot aperture. Up front, the petrol tank is in sound condition, and has benefitted from recent satin black repaint. It sits alongside what looks like a new spare wheel and tyre. All other tyres are new Pirelli Cinturato P7s.
THE CCW VIEW
The Fiat’s documentation includes tax stamps from Italy, the original Carta Di Circolazione Per Autovettura (registration certificate), and an HMRC document relating to the car’s arrival in the UK. There’s no history concerning the restoration, but it’s obvious that a pretty good job has been done, inside and out. This 500D isn’t concours, but it’s not far off, and has a nicely period feel thanks in part to its original documentation. A couple of body flaws let it down at close range but most look like they’d be easily sorted. This car will certainly put a smile on its next owner’s face.