Jack Evans

Out in Turin

the original, while chrome “hub cap” style alloy wheels certainly ape those fitted to the old 500. A new seveninch TFT display has also been fitted inside, housing satellite navigation and media functions.

Space and practicality

There haven’t been any mechanical changes made to the 60th, meaning that the 500 is just as compact as the standard car. There’s still a good amount of room for those in the front, while those in the back struggle for both leg and headroom. The 60th comes with a folding cloth roof, and to facilitate this system Fiat has fitted it with a clamshell-style boot. It’s not as practical as the standard car, therefore, which is worth remembering if you’re planning on using the 60th as an everyday vehicle.

Behind the wheel

The familiar 1.2-litre turbocharged engine is under the bonnet, linked to a fivespeed manual gearbox. Our test route took in the narrow, cobbled streets of Turin, the 500’s home territory.

Its swift and nimble handling makes darting in and out of traffic a breeze, while the peppy engine suits the car’s frenetic, eager character.

Value for money

As mentioned earlier, the biggest benefit to the 500’s interior is the all-new, larger infotainment display.

It’s simple to navigate, and has decent enough sensitivity. Elsewhere, everything feels of a relatively good quality.

However, the red finish applied to the 60th Anniversary Edition’s dash feels scratchy and hard, something that you’d think would have been avoided in a commemorative car.

The retro Fiat badges do make the car feel special however, while most people will no doubt be attracted by the car’s uber-retro styling touches.

It’s also fitted with a commemorative plaque, signifying the car’s limitededition status.