1968 FIAT 500 BERLINA

This Fiat 500 Berlina is a highly original and very low-mileage example of the charming and iconic city car, presented with incredible documentation dating back to 1968. It is powered by the 499cc 17bhp engine, driving the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows just 28,894 miles from new, which is supported by a great history file.

An original right-hand drive UK market car, it was supplied by D.J. MacDonald in Glasgow and was first registered on 6 March 1968. The paperwork with the car includes not only the original purchase invoice in its date-stamped envelope, but also the owner’s documentation envelope that would have been handed over with the car when new. Its first owner purchased the car for his wife, and the log book was later transferred to her name. The car was then gifted to a reverend who was a family member, before being acquired by the seller a few years ago.

Other than what is believed to be some remedial paintwork on the offside front wing, the rest of the car is thought to be wearing the factory-applied finish. The body itself is straight and solid, while the red paint has a lovely patina all around the panels. There are a few spots of chipped paint around the wheel arches, and around the door shuts, but in general this 500 is in wonderfully original condition and presents well. All of the exterior chrome is in good order, with very minor marks present only on a few sections.

The light lenses are complete and undamaged, and the window and door rubbers are in good condition, showing only signs of aging. On the roof, the folding canvas is in great shape, with no rips or holes, and fits snugly when closed. The original nose badge and motif is cracked and missing sections, but the rest of the exterior trim is in good order. Even the registration plates appear to be original, and the front quarter glasses are marked accordingly. The car sits on a set of 12-inch steel wheels, which are in sound condition with only some surface corrosion around the rims.

Inside, the beige vinyl upholstery is in superb order, with some marks and discolouration, but only wear commensurate with the low mileage. Durable ribbed rubber floor coverings are in place throughout the cabin, and all of the levers and switchgear are complete and undamaged. Ahead of the driver, the two-spoke steering wheel and Veglia Borletti instrument gauge are the original items.

The car starts, runs, and drives well, and has been kept in good mechanical order by a local Fiat specialist during the seller’s ownership. Its last MOT test was on 24 April 2018 at 28,841 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories. The wheels are shod in period-style Michelin tyres all round, which have plenty of tread.

Accompanying the car is the original brown envelope from Fiat that contained the instruction book, motoring hints guide, service directory, and warranty information - all of which are also still present. The workshop manual, grey plastic tool box and green jack are also still with the car, stored in the front compartment.

This Fiat 500 Berlina is a stylish Italian classic that is presented in remarkably original and complete condition. It would be very hard to find another example that has been so well preserved over the years, especially one with such superb documentation and history. Benefiting from its original right-hand-drive layout to suit a UK buyer, its Historic vehicle class also means it qualifies for exemption from London’s ULEZ charge. This is an appealing example of a classic design icon, which will undoubtedly delight its next owner with its undeniable Italian charm.

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.