Fast Facts:

• Final-year Fiat Nuova 500 D, retaining the D-series’ distinctive rear-hinged doors and folding fabric roof

• 499.5 cc air-cooled twin-cylinder engine with four-speed manual transmission

• Restored in 2010 and held by its current owner for approximately 13 years, with Italian registration papers and an ASI certificate reported to accompany the car

The Details:

Few cars are as closely associated with post-war Italy as the Fiat 500. Designed under Dante Giacosa and launched in 1957, the Nuova 500 distilled the essentials of personal transport into a remarkably compact rear-engined package. At less than three metres long, inexpensive to run and capable of carrying four people, it became one of the defining cars of its era.

The 500 D arrived in 1960, with a larger 499.5 cc air-cooled two-cylinder engine and a featherlight weight of around 500 kg. More than 640,000 were produced before the series gave way to the 500 F in 1965.

Importantly for collectors, the D retained the charming rear-hinged doors of the early Nuova 500. It also received a more substantial and slightly smaller folding fabric roof than its predecessor, together with revised lighting and a reshaped 22-litre fuel tank that freed additional luggage space at the front. 

Performance was modest even by contemporary standards, but period writers found considerable entertainment in extracting it. A 1965 Motor Sport long-term test praised the Fiat’s quick and precise steering, surprisingly good ride and reliability despite being driven hard over thousands of miles.

This 1965 Fiat Nuova 500 D is a left-hand drive example identified by chassis number 813031. The odometer currently indicates approximately 19,405 km. The car was reportedly restored in 2010 and has been with the seller for approximately 13 years. 

It’s finished in blue with a black folding retractable sun roof, whitewall tyres and a rear luggage rack carrying a period-style leather case. Inside, the cabin has been retrimmed in contrasting red and black upholstery with Abarth detailing, together with the characteristic simple painted dashboard and large central speedometer.

Behind the rear seat sits the 499.5 cc air-cooled twin, driving the rear wheels through a four-speed non-synchro manual gearbox.

The seller advises that the car is accompanied by Italian registration papers and an ASI authenticity certificate. There is no service history, although the owner reports having the Fiat regularly checked and maintained by a private mechanic, as well as started to ensure that it’s turned over and happy. Its most recent service was reportedly completed in May 2026 at 19,405 km.

Boasting a charming presentation, the usable and entertaining combination of 499.5 cc twin cylinder and non-synchro box, Italian registration papers and authenticity certificate from ASI, this 1965 Fiat 500 is a lovely restored example of the Italian icon.

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