With fuel economy on everyone's mind nowadays, where is the car buyer to turn? Sure, you could buy a new car, possibly a hybrid, that might net you a tax credit and over 50mpg on the highway. But say you live in more urban, close quarters, don't want something as big, but seek a little style with your economy. One of the most chic city cars ever was the Fiat 500, or Cinquecento, produced from 1957 through 1975. Now that Fiat has returned to the US market with the Nuova 500 leading the charge, its an opportune time to make like a hipster, if you so desire, and tell people "I remember the 500 when..."
1971 Fiat 500L
Here is a very special 1971 Fiat 500L. Finished with an orange exterior and black interior. The odometer reads 47,268 kilometers (29,370 miles) which we believe to be accurate. This is the rare L or "Lusso" model which was the penultimate edition to the famed Fiat 500. These cars came equipped with a more modern and updated dashboard, extra chrome nudge bar, wheel covers and more. This Fiat 500L just underwent a complete oil and fluid service within the last 20 miles and it drives as it should. The two cylinder engine and 4-speed manual transmission make a great combination although no races will be won driving this car. The steering is precise and the brakes are working properly as well. This really is a cute little microcar to drive.
The interior is very nice. The black seats are in good condition (see pictures) showing just typical wear and patina to the seats. The dashboard looks good as well. The exterior is what really makes a vintage Fiat 500L stand out from the rest. The orange paint is in nice condition with some scrapes and wear showing here and there. The paint is bright and shiny although there are a few areas that could use attention (see pictures). Most of the chrome and brightwork are in great condition and even the wheels and tires look good. This really is a great looking Fiat.
The 1971 Fiat 500L really is the ultimate vintage microcar. It has timeless looks which puts smiles on the faces of not only the driver and passengers of the car, but others who watch it go by. This 1971 Fiat is a very nice example imported by a collector several years ago and it is not restored but rather original showing some imperfections and original patina. Please feel free to call me (Matt 516-658-4048) with any additional questions you may have. I am listing this car with a very fair reserve so please only bid if you intend to buy! Don't miss this one! Good luck!
A 500 in concours condition might run you around the $20,000 mark these days. This 500L for sale in New York is in good driver quality condition, which, to be honest, is the way I would want to buy one of these things. These were never meant to be museum pieces, so its nice to see a car like this that has been sympathetically cared for and can be used as intended. I'd suspect the seller is eyeing a reserve of around $10,000 somewhere; a car like this should typically fetch between that figure and about $15,000.
-Paul