A brief history of Fiat 500

Launched in July, 1957

The Fiat 500, known initially as ‘The Cinquecento’ was introduced by Fiat Company in July 1957, and produced under this guise until 1975.

Designed by Dante Giacosa, the Cinquecento was marketed as a cheap, functional and economical town car for post-war Italy.

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Small size, huge appeal

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The original Cinquencento measured just over 9 feet long, and was powered by a 479cc two-cylinder engine, and was considered one of the first ‘city cars’.

Despite its small size, the Cinquencento proved to be very popular, and almost four million were produced from launch to 1975.

Rear-mounted engine.

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The original Cinquecento had a rear-mounted engine that allowed the tiny car the agility it needed to navigate the city.

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1960–1975

The Fiat 500 saw a few revisions during this period, mainly cosmetic, such as a sunroof that only folded part way (Fiat 500 D), and an estate version (Fiat 500 Giardiniera).

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1965: Removal of ‘suicide doors’

Safety wasn’t top priority with the original Fiat 500s. In fact, the car became famous for its ‘suicide doors’ (doors that were hinged at the rear).

In 1965, the company got rid of the suicide doors with the Fiat 500 F. This was much to the dismay of many men, who then complained that they couldn’t look at women’s legs as they got in and out of the car!

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1968–1972: Fiat 500 L or Lusso

The Lusso model was mechanically very similar to the 500 F, but there were some notable cosmetic changes.

The Lusso has an extra chrome bar at the front and rear, and a more modern interior, which featured a new black steering wheel, plastic dashboard, reclining seats and carpeting.

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1972: Larger engine

In 1972, Fiat released the 500 R or Rinnovata, which had a larger 594cc engine, capable of producing 23hp. The R had a syncromesh gearbox, which allowed for smoother driving.

1975: Production ends

Fiat ceased production of the 500 in favour of the new Fiat 126, which never enjoyed the same popularity.

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2007: 50th anniversary – the Fiat 500 is reborn

In 2007, Fiat released a modern reinterpretation of the original 500, with some notable changes.

The rear-mounted engine was scrapped for an engine in the front, in line with most modern cars.

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