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, an opening fabric roof and all-independent suspension while carrying its engine at the rear.

The 479cc power unit was an air-cooled overhead-valve twin, and the gearbox a four-speeder.

The basic 500's austerity was not well received, prompting the introduction of a revised and better equipped version endowed with refinements such as wind-down windows, 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.

In 1965 it was superseded by the 500F, the latter's altered bodywork incorporating front-hinged doors and a shortened sunroof, while mechanical improvements included a strengthened transmission.

Maximum power increased to 22bhp and the top speed to within a whisker of 60mph.

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