In current ownership for over 25 years Better equipped than many cars twice its size, the FIAT 500, soon nicknamed ‘Topolino’ (Little Mouse), brought a degree of refinement hitherto unknown to small cars when launched in 1936.

Lockheed hydraulic brakes, independent front suspension and 12-volt electrics were all features while an engine mounted ahead of the front axle helped maximise cabin space for the two occupants.

The 569cc, four-cylinder, sidevalve motor produced a modest 13bhp, but as the Topolino weighed little more than half a ton, it could nevertheless manage a respectable 50mph-plus under favourable conditions.

For most buyers though, the frugal (up-to-50mpg) fuel consumption would have been the major attraction.

Nearly 520,000 were sold in total before its replacement (the ‘Cinquecento’) was introduced in 1957.

This pretty example was first delivered in June 1937, and since the late 1990s joining an important British-based classic car collection, sitting alongside a num...