Case study: used boutique city slickers

0-100 km/h: 12,72 seconds Top speed: 173 km/h Power: 63 kw Torque: 145 N.m CO2: 90 g/km Fuel consumption: 4,68 L/100 km (fuel index)

Casting an even smaller shadow than the Mini, Fiat’s little 500 is a compelling second-hand pur‐ chase. Introduced in 2007, the bijou Italian city runabout has shown few signs of ageing (although a new, electric 500 is on its way). The retro bodywork still looks wonderful, kept fresh by the 2016 facelift. The interior is charming and features plenty of neat design flourishes.

The compact interior doesn’t have room for more than four passengers, with the rear seats better suited to young children. The boot measures 152 litres (enough for one medium-sized suitcase) and a fairly useful 544 litres with the seats folded down.

The 0,9-litre Twinair engine is unique. Utilising just two cylinders, the 875 cm3 turbopetrol engine produces an impressive 63 kw and 145 N.m of torque. This makes for acceptable per‐ formance, accompanied by a distinctive thrum. Fuel consumption is decent, too. While Fiat claims the Twinair uses just 3,80 L/100 km, we managed a more realistic 5,40 litres on our 100 km fuel route.

Automatic gearboxes are becoming an increasingly popular option in small cars, yet, the 500 is better suited to a manual gearbox. Not only is the gearchange slick and responsive, but the five-speed ‘box is able to get the most out of the torquey motor.

The 500 is at home in the city; its dimensions and quick steering allow it to squeeze through even the smallest gaps. While it excels in the side roads and alleyways of a populated metropolis, it is less at home on the long road. This isn’t to say that it can’t do a long-distance journey; the 500 just works better when it’s confined to the city limits.

The Fiat isn’t without its histrionics. The little Italian is prone to trim issues, with door handles that can loosen over time, for example.

Prices start R160 000 for a 2018 Pop Star with 30 000 km on the clock, rising to R175 000 for the Lounge. Try to source a later model with lower mileage to take advantage of the remainder of the three-year maintenance plan. 4 seats, 152/544 L 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC R3 940 November 2016 (0,9 Twinair Pop) space safety & aids cost of 4 tyres road test long-term test