1970 Fiat 500L Saloon

The Fiat 500 was produced by Fiat S.p.A (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) between 1957 and 1975 and was designed by Dante Giacosa. Despite its diminutive size, the '500' proved to be an enormously practical and popular vehicle throughout Europe and captured the hearts and minds of the public until production ended in 1975.

Launched as the Nuova (new) 500 in July 1957 it was marketed as a cheap and practical town car. Measuring only 3 metres long, and originally powered by a 479 cc two-cylinder, air-cooled engine, the 500 redefined the term "small car" and it is considered to be one of the first 'city cars'. The 'L' or Lusso penultimate model, like the car offered here today, was produced between 1968 and 1972 and featured a much modernised interior including a revised dashboard which brought the Fiat 500 up to date. Greater comfort and style were provided in this new model for a new generation, and the engine benefited from a capacity upgrade to 499cc which produced a little more power.

Finished in the charming colour combination of Mustard Yellow with a black vinyl interior, so typical of the 1970s, this particular FIAT 500L has spent most of its life in its native Italy. It has the correct Pirelli tyres, including the spare, and is described as in generally good condition, starting readily and running well. The car is offered with the old Italian registration documents, has been UK registered this year, and is now ready to bring a ray of sunshine into these grey winter mornings.