- Desirable Trasformabile model with suicide doors
- Delivered new in Italy
- Restored example
- Superb condition
THE 500D
Apart from a Ferrari, no car is more recognisable as classically Italian than the FIAT 500. Replacement for FIAT's much-loved 500 'Topolino', the Nuova 500 debuted in 1957. A radical departure from its predecessor's essentially pre-war design, FIAT's new baby featured unitary construction, a full-length opening (trasformabile) fabric roof and all-independent suspension while carrying its engine at the rear. The 479cc power unit was an air-cooled overhead-valve twin, the first such used by FIAT, and the gearbox a four-speeder.
The austerity of the basic 500 - it was known as the 'Economica' - was not well received, prompting the swift introduction of a revised and better equipped model, which first appeared towards the end of 1957 at the Turin Show. Refinements incorporated in this less Spartan version included wind-down windows, an upholstered rear seat, column-mounted switch gear stalks, and hubcaps. Introduced in 1960, the 500D used the 499.5cc engine of the 500 Sport in de-tuned form, which nevertheless brought with it a small gain in horsepower. With the introduction of the 500D, the short sunroof first seen on the Sport became available on the standard saloon.
The Nuova 500 was an immense success for FIAT, and by the time production ceased in 1975 almost 3,000,000 of these adorable little cars had been sold. The original FIAT 500 remains as popular today as it ever was and recently was voted 'Sexiest Car' by the readers of the UK's Top Gear motoring magazine.
THIS 500D
This FIAT 500D Trasformabile was sold new in Italy in 1964. It arrived in England in 2015, where it participated in several classic car events—including the London to Brighton run—which are well-documented. The current owner, a dedicated collector of classic cars, had been searching for one just like this for some time. When it became available in 2019, they seized the opportunity. When not in use, the car has been carefully stored in a heated garage alongside other classics and only driven on dry, salt-free days.
Presented in the charming color scheme of Verde Acquamarina over a tan interior, this 500D has clearly benefitted—albeit without formal documentation—from an extensive, high-quality restoration.
In its standard configuration, the roof folds back only partway, but this model features the desirable “Trasformabile” roof, which fully retracts to the rear scuttle—just like the one we have here. The folding canvas top is in excellent condition, free from rips or holes.
The car also retains its distinctive rear-hinged “suicide” doors. While the name might sound dramatic (though we do recommend ensuring they’re properly latched before setting off), they actually make entry and exit far more graceful—particularly for those accessing the rear bench seat.
Inside, the cabin presents beautifully, having been re-trimmed in recent years. The seats and door panels are upholstered in superb tan vinyl, complemented by cream-colored top panels and piping. All switchgear is intact and undamaged, with no known faults.
These Trasformabile variants are becoming increasingly hard to find and are among the more collectible Fiat 500 models. Today, this example remains in excellent condition, ready to be enjoyed. With its unmistakable Italian charm, characterful two-cylinder engine, and unmistakable ‘la dolce vita’ spirit, this Fiat 500D is sure to delight its next owner wherever they choose to drive it.
The car is currently registered in Belgium and is being sold on behalf of a client.
