The mouse that roared

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Certain car-makers become virtually synonymous with one particular model, and there’s a good chance that if you mention Fiat to someone, they’ll think of the 500. Today’s 500 may not appeal much to PreWarCar.com readers, but its compact dimensions, cutesy looks and cheap running costs owe a lot to a model which originally appeared in 1936.

Fiat 500

Fiat’s first 500– the immediately recognisable Topolino – was Italy’s somewhat belated foray into the people’s economy car market. A product of a very specific and somewhat troubled socio-political environment, the 500’s success was immediate as it mobilised a population which was still experiencing considerable economic hardship compared to its European neighbours.

Though the Fiat 500 may have been extremely cheap and unapologetically basic, it was nevertheless a very modern car. Designer Dante Giacosa was drafted in from Fiat’s aero-engine department, and he applied his knowledge to create a chassis which was minimalist and ultra-lightweight. For styling, Fiat turned to Rodolfo Schaeffer who penned a shape which embraced the contemporary fashion for streamlining.

The popularity of the Topolino speaks for itself. Over19 years, 519,000 examples found owners all across Europe. Its replacement would run for a further 18 years, and eventually give rise to the current model which is still going strong after 14. Zack Stiling explores the origins of Fiat’s best-loved car in the October issue of The Automobile, available now.

Words by Zack Stiling. Photographs by Reverendpixel.

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