The stylish Fiat 500 has always been modelled on the original 1957 Cinquecento and now the Italian firm is set to bring memories flooding back with its 500 Vintage '57 edition. Going beyond a simple homage like the previously released Fiat 500 Cult, this new edition is closer to a modern recreation of the original icon.
Exterior
Looking resplendent in its pastel blue paint and contrasting white roof with matching spoiler, antenna and mirror covers, the 500 Vintage '57 is clearly channelling style from a bygone era. This continues to the 16-inch alloy wheels, which are a nod to the original chrome hubcaps that adorned the first 500. The wheel centres also feature a historical version of the Fiat badge, as do the front and rear badges.
Interior
Inside, the retro theme is continued with a white dashboard and steering wheel that features the same historical Fiat badge. The leather seats are finished in a shade of tan called 'Poltrona Frau' and feature contrasting ivory leather 'half-moon' inserts with '500' embroidered in tan stitching. All mod-cons will be provided, including air conditioning, seven airbags and the Blue&Me Bluetooth system.
Mechanicals
Despite the retro image, there is nothing but modern technology under the bonnet of the 500 Vintage '57. It will be offered with a choice of Fiat's 69hp 1.2-litre petrol engine or the perky turbocharged petrol 0.9-litre TwinAir two-cylinder engine that produces 85hp. Driver aids such as ESP with ASR/MSR and Hill Holder to help with hill starts will also be offered.
Anything else?
The Fiat 500 Vintage '57 will be publicly unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show and Fiat says it will go on sale to the public in April. Official pricing for the Irish market is expected to be announced nearer to the time of launch.