1973 Fiat 500R

The Fiat 500 was produced by Fiat S.p.A (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) between 1957 and 1975, limited production of the Fiat 500 K estate continued until 1977. The car was designed by Dante Giacosa, and 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.

This left-hand drive car was recently owned by a body-shop in Italy. The bodywork and trim were restored by them in 2011/12 to a high standard. It was rebuilt to standard 500R specification with the exception of a very low mileage 650 motor to replace the original 600cc unit. The current owner bought the car last year and completed the NOVA procedure here in the UK. Middle Barton Garage, the UK's leading Fiat Abarth specialists, have thoroughly inspected this example and the following work was undertaken: new crank spigot bearing fitted, new clutch fitted, both rear wheel bearings replaced, right front wheel bearing replaced, track rod dust boots fitted, left front inner track rod end replaced, steering idler bushes replaced, gearbox mount bushes replaced, inner driveshaft boots replaced, gear-change flexi coupling replaced, new exhaust fitted and it has been fully serviced and MOT"d until October 2014. This little Fiat 500 is described by Middle Barton as in excellent condition and drives accordingly. The correct Italian documentation accompanies the car to facilitate new registration for its next owner. Silverstone Auctions have had significant success with 500s of late and this last of the line example is one of the finest we have seen.