Fiat 500s aren't so common today, but the original model sold to the tune of nearly 4 million units from introduction to end of production. Of the units produced, about 650 received the Jolly - Joker in Italian - conversion at Ghia. It is said that of those 650 examples, a mere 100 or so survive to this day.
Original units trade for shockingly high sums these days, with 6-figure sales becoming the norm at the auction houses. We understand that these are truly rare and unique vehicles, so as stunning as the price tag may be, it does make sense. Now, were the original units accompanied by years of design and development work, or do they resemble something more along the lines of hasty decapitation? We'd say the truth lies much closer to the later. The service advertised here basically takes a standard 500 and replicates the original Jolly body style. In our eyes, you get 99% of the Jolly experience for a quarter of the price.
Year: 1968
Model: Fiat 500 Jolly Replica
Engine: 499cc 4-cylinder
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: N/A
Price: $26,900
Location: Aglio, Italy
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1968 Fiat 500 Jolly Replica
We professionally build Jollys to exact specification of the original version. We use only the best materials available. We build them from the chassis up and use sheet metal to form the new reinforced bodies, created by profeiosnal coach builders. You can choose your own exterior and interior colours and fittings.
These are ideal for the town, beach, golf courses, hotel industry or as a promotional vehicle. Original versions of these have recently sold for $140,000 and you couldn't tell the difference between the two!! We can build them from scratch in around 3 months Please get in touch for further information. Visit our website. Word wide shipping available. We're based in Piacenza, Italy
The 500 is a simple vehicle with parts that remain available and affordable. This conversion service allows the buyer to start with a solid 500, whereas those shopping original Jollys must choose from what's available, and those might not be in the best shape. We have no affiliation with this builder, and no idea if the work really holds up, but with such a simple conversion, it can't be that difficult to get it right.
For short trips in warm weather and light traffic, the Jolly would be up to the task. For most, that means duty as a beach vehicle. We'd be reluctant to take an original into the salty beach environment, but one of these conversions wouldn't peg the guilt meter one bit.
-Graham