Autobianchi Giardiniera

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The Autobianchi 500 Giardiniera was the Autobianchi version of the Fiat 500 Giardiniera and was built between 1960 and 1977. With a 499cc, 22hp engine and a four speed gearbox tucked away under the boot floor it was the estate-bodied version of the Fiat 500.

Unlike later Fiat 500 Berlinas, the Giardiniera retained its suicide doors throughout production. A total of 327,000 were produced, but from 1966 they were al built by Autobianchi and were badged as such.

The example offered here was first registered in Rome on 10^th September 1972. According to the sales receipt on file it appears to have cost 730,000 Lira. 

It was purchased by the vendor while in Italy in 2016 and imported into the UK. It was used occasionally in and around London for the first few months using its original Italian registration of ROMA K90810 but by 2018 had been registered XEU 644K in the UK.

It was treated to a some minor work, including new rear driveshafts, front top bushes and kingpins and wheel bearings. Also new headlights, wipers and washer pump and bag. A little remedial bodywork was also completed to the door bottoms. Under the bonnet all appears to be in good order, with some patches where the car reveals it was previously painted yellow. That said, the cream colour suits the car and looks well. What chromework there is looks to be in good overall condition.

The basic but tidy interior is in great condition with seats smartly trimmed in red velour with matching door cards, black rubber floor mats and a functioning, full-length fold back roof.

After three years of round town fun for the vendor and his family, they have decided to part company with the Giardiniera. A rare and desirable little car that would make a perfect promo or delivery vehicle for a small business, or just a fun way for the family to go to on leisurely day trips!