1969 FIAT 500 L Aqua (D296)
An enthusiast’s sporty conversion and upgrades to a solid classic FIAT 500 L. A very special find we located in northern Italy in the Varese area. Owned by a Cinquecento aficionado this car has been very well cared for and upgraded over the years to a current state of excellence. The body is in superb shape with lustrous paint in a very attractive aqua color. Overall very clean and solid, never rusted. Mechanicals have been well maintained, upgraded for performance and recently fully serviced and ready for adventure. This time machine presents as virtually new due to ongoing restoration and attention for many years.
The exterior is stock and fitted with a large folding sunroof panel. All trims, badges and lights in excellent condition. The simple and attractive chrome bumpers set off the smooth panels. All glass is in good condition. Sleek aerodynamic rear view mirrors in body color are fitted to each door.
The fully carpeted interior has been fitted with special vinyl sport seats with competition dual shoulder belts. Seat upholstery, door panels, sun visors and sunroof are al in superb condition. A custom dash panel with aftermarket gauges has been fitted. Odometer shows just 7,386 miles (11,887 km), but actual mileage unconfirmed. The gearbox features an Abarth racing style alloy gearshift lever. An alloy handle actuates the parking brake with style and racing pedals provide secure footing. A stout leather wrapped steering wheel provides exact control. A handy parcel compartment is fitted under the dash and a period correct cassette stereo unit provides a cool sound track to your adventure. The entire cabin has been focused on sportiness and competition style.
Proper modifications from stock provide for a sports orientation. The engine is a 650cc unit with a full synchro 4-speed gearbox from a later model FIAT Panda and performance is lively. The chassis has been fitted with a front disc brake conversion. The engine has been fitted with a performance Solex carburetor, air filter and manifold.
An Abarth finned oil sump has been installed. A sport exhaust system provides a hearty exhaust note to every run up thru the gears. Unique alloy wheels are fitted at each corner and shod with almost new radial tires. All maintenance is up to date and the car runs with verve.
The car comes with a valid California registration and title. It also retains its original Italian plates and paperwork.
Sharp looks, hot performance, many personal touches and in remarkable condition - this 1969 FIAT 500 L Cinquecento is a truly unique sports moto.
1969 FIAT 500 L AQUA (D296)
Offered At $17,975
Price: (before tax): $17,975
Make: Fiat
Year: 1969
ABOUT THE FIAT 500L
The 500 L (Lusso) model was the top of the line with many upgrades over the standard 500. The interior was completely redesigned and modernized for the Lusso. In production only four years (1968 to1972) it is considered by many to be the most desirable and collectable model of the 500 series.
Only 117” long - fits anywhere - still has room for 4.
Launched as the Nuova (new) 500 in 1957 and following in the long tradition of mini compact Fiat city cars that began with the Toplino of the late 40’s the Nuova was an instant success. In production thru 1975 there were several detail upgrades and this 1971 500L model incorporates the most significant of those. Considered by many to be the ultimate “City Car”, the Nuova 500 was very popular all across Europe. None of the subsequent models ever possessed the charm and fun-to-drive feeling of this series.
The shapely body sits on a 72.4” wheelbase and is a trim 117” long, ideal for parking in the city. With a svelte curb weight of only 1,200 lbs and powered by a robust twin cylinder 500cc engine, performance is lively around town and adequate for country lanes. Fuel economy is outstanding.
A 4-speed manual transmission provides a wide range of gearing for climbing steep urban hills to an open road top speed around 60 mph. The ride is notably supple and the handling crisp and accurate.
The 500 L is quite simple mechanically and considered to be reliable and durable, and easy to maintain. Parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive.
SPECIFICATIONS : Stock
1972 FIAT 500 L
499 cc / 30.4 cu in Twin Air Cooled
Rear Engine / Rear Wheel Drive
22 HP / 26 lb ft Torque
Top Speed 60 mph +
Dimensions :
Wheelbase - 72.4 in
Length - 117 in
Width - 52 in
Curb weight - 1,168 lb