Fiat 500C Topolino

Launched in 1936, the Fiat 500 (better known as the Topolino, Italian for ‘Little Mouse’) was a masterpiece of packaging that offered generous interior space within a tiny (and immensely charming) bodyshell.

Largely the work of the legendary Dante Giacosa, it was powered by a 569cc four-cylinder, side-valve, water-cooled engine mounted ahead of the front axle, with the radiator located behind the engine where it doubled as the interior heater. Although it developed a modest 13bhp, it could still reach 55mph and cover 50 miles on a single gallon of petrol.

Transmission was via a four-speed all-synchromesh gearbox, with independent front suspension, 12-volt electrics and Lockheed hydraulic brakes. Conceived much as the Austin Seven had been as a ‘full sized car in miniature’, it’s no wonder that the little mouse was a huge success, even becoming the best selling imported car into the US in 1938 and ’39! 

By 1948 it had gained overhead valves and in 1950 was given a major make-over as the 500C. A full width front grille and a larger boot area modernised the looks, whilst a conventional heater as standard equipment attracted new buyers too. When compared to the British competition, the performance of the 500C with its 61mph top speed was not that far behind despite its diminutive engine. But on the road it would run rings round them thanks to its sophisticated suspension and fabulous brakes, illustrating just how brilliant the original design had been.

This lovely 1954 example was purchased by the vendor’s family about four years ago to use at their French residence. It is unclear if the car's previous owner, a Mr Caruso from Colorno, had a musical background, but the vendor can confirm that it was thoroughly restored in Italy in around 2000, runs and drives beautifully and is in lovely overall condition.

A booklet which accompanies the car from the Automobile Club Storico Italiano shows photographs of the car as it was restored, a thorough process which has been well executed with a particularly pleasing interior, although the vendor advises that the passenger seat sits a bit low and will require some adjustment. Complete with a good hood, the vendor adds that there are some very minor stone chips to the paintwork and that the front bumper is slightly 'patinated'.

These ‘little mice’ are most appealing and are really good fun to drive. This example has been well restored and is on the button and ready to go. The vendor informs us that it is currently registered in Italy and carries Italian plates so will need to be registered with the DVLA if it is to be used on the roads over here.