1962 FIAT 500D TRANSFORMABLE

This Fiat 500D Transformable is a charming and characterful classic Italian city car, which has been lovingly restored over the years and is now presented in smart condition. It is powered by a rear-mounted 499cc two-cylinder engine, which produces around 17bhp and is coupled to a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer indicates 2,266km, but is currently inoperative, and the total mileage is unknown.

Introduced in 1960 to replace the ‘Nuova’ 500, the 500D featured an uprated engine and numerous other revisions. While they typically lacked the fold-back roof seen in the prior generation, this was included on ‘Transformable’ models such as this.

An Italian market left-hand-drive example, the car was first registered in January 1962, and was imported from Vicenza, Italy, by the current owner, who registered it with the DVLA in December 2014.

During their six years of ownership, the seller has had the car sympathetically restored, keeping it garaged at all times when not in use, and transported on a low-loader for any long journeys. Used for weddings and other events, it has always drawn a crowd, and is now offered for sale to another enthusiast owner.

The bodywork presents in very clean, straight condition, with crisp shut lines and even panel gaps. The Bianca paintwork is described by the seller as being in good order, although it would benefit from being refreshed in some areas, such as on the door hinges and the bottom edge of the front driver’s side wheel arch. He also notes that the engine bay would benefit from being repainted to bring it up to the same standard as the rest of the car.

All of the exterior trim is in great shape and a rear luggage rack has been fitted, making this 500D ideal for weekend getaways. In recent years, the chrome work has been repaired to a high standard, while the other metal body furniture presents well.

The Transformable’s signature black canvas foldable roof is in very good order, having been replaced by Fiat specialist Middle Barton Garage with parts provided by Ricambio International. There are no signs of rips, tears or staining, however there are some slight blemishes to the exterior paintwork, caused by the roof moving across its surface.

The car sits on a set of period-correct 12-inch steel wheels, with chrome hub caps and white wall tyre trims, replicating the look of traditional white wall tyres. All four of the wheels present very well, with no noticeable scratches, dents or corrosion.

Opening the rear-hinged doors and stepping into the cabin, you’re met by the vibrant Rosso vinyl upholstered seats with contrasting white top panels and piping. Re-trimmed in the correct factory style; the interior remains in excellent condition. The seller notes that the front seats’ upholstery has faded slightly and there is some glue visible on the trim, but this should be easy to remove. The interior components and accessories are also in good order, with the window winders, chromed door latches and leather door straps all adding to the car’s classic charm.

As is expected of any car that is fast approaching its 60th birthday, this 500D’s interior has acquired some light patina over the years, with mild oxidation being visible on both the cigarette lighter surround and on the rear-view mirror.

Sold as a basic ‘people’s car’ in its time, the 500D is relatively light on additional entertainment and comfort features, but what little switchgear there is remains in undamaged, working order – save for the wire for the bonnet release, which is described as being temperamental.

Following the car’s journey from Italy to the UK, its current owner has had it carefully restored to its former mechanical glory. More recently, Middle Barton Garage carried out a full engine refurbishment and service in June 2019 at an indicated 2,214km. This included the replacement of the crankshaft bearings, carburettor, fuel pump and more, with the seller including a full, comprehensive invoice for the work which was carried out at a total cost of more than £1,800.

Although now exempt on the basis of age, its last MOT test was conducted on 28 November 2019, with the odometer showing 2,260km. The car secured a first-time pass without a single advisory, and all four tyres are brand-new items with all of their tread remaining.

Accompanying this 500D are its original tool kit, jack and spare wheel, which are housed in the front ‘boot’. Unfortunately, the original handbooks were lost after the car was imported. The seller is including a full all-weather cover to help keep it protected during inclement conditions.

This Fiat 500D Transformable is a smart and inherently cheerful Italian icon. Benefitting from an in-depth mechanical restoration and presented in good condition both inside and out, this car sure to bring a smile to the face of its next owner, and indeed anybody else who crosses its path.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.

Car Overview

  • 2,266 km (inaccurate)
  • manual
  • LHD
  • Bianca
  • Rosso
  • 499 cc


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Lot Overview

  • Lot #00998
  • private Sale
  • Baldock, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

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