1972 RHD Fiat 500L

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. It 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. It featured a much modernised interior including a renewed 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 benefitted from a power upgrade to 499cc.

We are informed by the vendor that this beautiful little Fiat 500 is a genuine RHD car and was imported from Ireland in 1977. Subject of an older nut and bolt restoration in 2001 which also included an engine upgrade to 650cc to improve performance and driveability, a slight pull on the choke and this little Fiat springs eagerly into life, the uprated syncro gearbox is tight and precise to use and this little car pulls very eagerly in all gears. The steering is reported to be light and precise, this Fiat goes exactly where it is pointed with ease and holds the road with go kart like stability and when it comes to bring proceedings to a halt, the brakes pull the car up straight and true.

The bodywork bears testimony to the level of the Fiats restoration, panel fit is reported to be excellent, while the minimal chrome shines like new. The doors open and close with ease, as does the front bonnet and rear engine hood, suggesting it's been put back together with sympathy and expertise. The bodywork is reported to be is superb condition throughout; all 4 wheel arches are bright and clean as is the underside of the car.

You're hardly in the lap of luxury inside here; however the tiny seats are more comfortable than they look, even if the driving position is rather upright. The dashboard retains its original albeit spare switchgear and the speedometer currently shows just less than 33000 miles. The engine bay is clean with no signs of oil, water or any fluid leaks in evidenceSold with a current V5 logbook, previous MOT certificates including the current one which runs until March 2015, tax until Feb 2015 and a good history file, this charming little car makes for classic day to day driving if its next owner wishes, or equally is now a rare car that will draw many admiring glances on the show field.