The austerity of the basic 500, known as the 'Economica', was not well received initially, 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in 1960, the succeeding 500D used the 499.5cc engine of the 500 Sport in de-tuned form whilst, in 1965, that was superseded by the 500F.

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

An immense success for FIAT, almost 3,000,000 of these adorable little cars had been sold when production ceased in 1975.

However, the 500D known for its rear hinged 'suicide doors' has become the most sought after when combined with the full length sunroof known as the 'Transformable' and a restored UK-supplied example is therefore the 'holy grail' for any fan of the Italian Mini...