1975 Fiat 500 R
The Fiat 500, like the VW Beetle and the Classic Mini, is one of those cars that is universally loved and appreciated. It's the type of car that kids smile and wave at, it’s unapologetically Italian. But don’t let its small stature fool you, the 500 is raucous good fun to drive, and thanks to its simplistic design and air-cooled engine, easy to maintain too.
The classic 500 shape that we know and love today was first released in 1957 as the Nuova 500, throughout its life span, the 500 saw model variations like an estate and panel van. This example is a 500 R, the R standing for Rinnovata which translates into english as Renewed. Renewed as it was the last run of this classic 500 shape to be built, specifically built at the Termini Imerese factory in Sicily.
They were released alongside the 500s replacement, the 126, and shared its larger capacity 594cc engine. It Would be sold alongside the 126 for a further three years before 500 production ceased.
This 500 R was first registered in the UK in March of 2016, and it has just been treated to a full engine and gearbox service in January 2024 at classic Fiat specialists Firela Motors. Firela have maintained the car for its most recent owner since they acquired it a couple of years ago. They have enjoyed many miles in the car and it has been very good to them too, testament to the care they have given it. It has been a regular guest at our Classic & Cake meets.
To the exterior, you’ll find the classic lines of that oh-so-familiar shape, finished in Metallic Silver with a black vinyl roll back roof. The fetching colour scheme is complemented by an original set of wheels shod in Pirelli Rubber, naturally.
All the brightwork is in great shape, bumpers, light surrounds and door handles. The exterior is not free from blemishes, but that makes this city classic all the more usable.
As you step inside the little 500, you’re greeted by a wood-rimmed three spoke steering wheel and a simple but elegant single gauge cluster, red vinyl seats and black carpet. There is also manual “air-conditioning” in the form of quarter light front windows.
In the engine bay, you’ll find an original replacement engine, complimented by cleaned and refreshed ancillaries, and thanks to its recent restoration and service records you can enjoy this classic without haste! The most recent owner got the
The 500R could be the perfect city-classic, small, nippy and nimble with oodles of character and charm. Thanks to its age the car is Tax, MOT and ULEZ exempt.
As with all our vehicles, a full digital folder is available on request containing more images, walk-around videos, and scans of the service history. The car can also be viewed by appointment at our West London showroom.