1977 AUTOBIANCHI 500 GIARDINIERA

This Autobianchi 500 Giardiniera is charming and characterful classic benefitting from a significant mechanical overhaul and refurbishment of the floors and sills. It is powered by a 499cc two-cylinder engine producing around 18bhp, driving the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox. The odometer indicates 78,390 km from new.

The Giardiniera variant of the Fiat 500 was introduced in 1960 three years after the standard Fiat 500 to create a family orientated supermini. To achieve this, the engine position was rotated, allowing it to be mounted under the now flat floor. Initially built by Fiat, the Giardiniera was subsequently built by Autobianchi between 1968 and 1977 – and this car is from the final year of production.

The vehicle offered was first registered in Bari, Italy in 1978. It is understood to have remained in its home market until 2016, when it was imported to the UK by the seller, who remains the only registered keeper in the V5C log book.

The Bianco paintwork is described by the seller as being in generally good order for its age. There are some areas where the paint has started to crack, most notably on the nearside wheel arch and around both front door handles. The driver’s door handle is also slightly loose. Some filler has been used for small repairs prior to repainting in the past. However, its structure is reported to be in good condition, and new floor pans and inner and outer door sills were fitted by Italian classic specialist Auto Rossa following its arrival in the UK.

Its wheels appear to be in fair condition with some light surface corrosion showing around the rims, though the hubcaps have a pleasing shine. The retractable roof presents well, with only age-related wear.

The interior is in good condition, with the black vinyl upholstery looking smart with no rips or tears. Its two-spoke steering wheel and gear knob both appear to be original, as does the dashboard and row of switches – which are all helpfully marked for someone less familiar with the 500’s controls. There are some small scuffs and marks on the black vinyl trim in places, but in general the cabin is very presentable.

The most recent service was carried out at The Classic Car Company in July 2020. This included an engine service, tune up, steering box inspection, and improvements to the braking system. When the vehicle was imported, it was taken to Auto Rossa, where it was given a major overhaul to the steering, suspension, and braking systems.

The last MOT was carried out on the 12 July 2019 at 78,075 km resulting in a first-time pass with two advisories, regarding a small oil leak and poor performance from the windscreen washers. The Pirelli tyres on all four corners are in great condition with ample tread.

The vehicle comes with invoices covering the last four years of history in the UK, amounting to a total spend of some £11,000. Some previous Italian service history is also on file. A Fiat 500 tool kit, side-lift jack, and a spare wheel fitted with a new Pirelli tyre are also present.

This Autobianchi 500 Giardiniera is a design icon that is sure to grab attention wherever it goes, and would make a charming addition to any collection of Italian cars. While there are areas that would benefit from cosmetic refurbishment in due course, this is a usable car as-is, thanks to a good deal of refurbishment over the last four years. It is driving smartly, ready for its next owner to use and enjoy, or ripe for a more extensive restoration.

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.