In the summer of 1957 Fiat introduced the New 500, destined to repeat the success of the previous 500. The new model used the latest design techniques, such as integral body/chassis structure, all-round independent suspension and a rear engine. The engine was an air-cooled 2-cylinder unit, the first ever employed by Fiat. This car was born in Torino, in the Mirafiori plants, thanks to the highly talented young Dante Giacosa, head of Fiat technical Office.
Intended for those who until then had used only bicycles, the new model did not receive an enthusiastic welcome on the market, due perhaps to its too high price that differed little from the 600. This error was rectified and the price lowered to a more acceptable 465,000 lire in time for the Torino Motor Show that year. The new 500 hugely boosted Italian motoring and in the twenty years during which it was produced more than three and a half million units were built, while tens of thousands of cars were circulating throughout Italy.
The model on display has belonged to President Sandro Pertini. His family gave the car to the City of Turin.
Engine: rear-mounted, 2 cylinders
Capacity: 499,5 cc
Max. power output: 17,5 bhp at 4400 rpm
Max. speed: 95 km/h
Weight: 500 kg
Fuel consumption: 4,8 l/100 km
