Fiat Topolino C

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

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 bestselling 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, while a conventional heater as standard equipment attracted new buyers as well. 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.

The Fiat Topolino C in today’s sale was imported from the Italian beach resort town of San Benedetto Del Tronto some time ago. It was made in the Fiat Lingotto factory in Turin in 1952. An icon in its own right, the Lingotto factory featured a roof top test track that was made famous by the ‘The Italian Job’ where the Mini Coopers of Charlie Croker and his crew ran rings around the carabinieri. It was here that this Topolino would have turned its wheels under its own power for the first time.

Requiring full restoration, it offers the buyer a chance to restore an iconic Italian car at reasonable cost. Parts are readily available from a large and enthusiastic supply industry in Italy, most at very reasonable cost. This particular car was featured on the Federation of British Historical Vehicle Clubs’ stand at the NEC Restoration show in 2014 demonstrating a restoration scenario to visitors.

Part of a collection of small Italian cars amassed by the vendor, it comes with a NOVA form (Notice Of Vehicle Arrival) and a Fiat UK dating letter authenticating the year and the model. It is ready for the new owner to register with DVLA, which will make them the first UK owner in the V5C logbook.