FIAT Topolino C (D245)

Perfect for Your Roman Holiday.The charm and sheer fun of this compact Italian runabout is unique.

Very nice restoration with fresh professional finish, renewed interior and reconditioned mechanicals. Ready to take you back in time.

Nothing captures the essence of postwar Italy better than the charming Topolino. This car is a “C” model, the most modern of the Topolino series production, and largely original. We sourced the car from an Italian collection and put it thru a comprehensive restoration including a multi-step strip, fill and refinish of the body in a period correct deep blue. The process revealed a sound body with very minor rust that was thoroughly addressed prior to painting. The lustrous enamel is set off by the simple disc wheels finished in blue with the adorable original Fiat chrome center caps. Odometer shows only 4,022 miles (6473 km), but actual mileage is unknown.

This one is very special, in professionally restored condition with subtle, genuine patina preserved. The bodywork, sunroof, interior and mechanicals have all been addressed in the restoration process and the car has been cared for since – it is in FANTASTIC shape!

Looks good, starts easily, runs great, no issues, no problems, overall exceptionally nice for an example of this vintage - over 65 years young. Exterior paintwork is smooth and lustrous in a very appealing blue tone. All exterior trim, lights, lenses and the bumpers are in very good condition. The interior features attractive velour upholstery and a new large opening sunroof. The steering wheel and dash are in excellent, original condition. The engine compartment is particularly clean and neatly organized reflecting the detail attention of the entire restoration. The underbody is rust free and solid from end to end and protected by anti-corrosion finishes. This Topolino has been professionally attended in all regards and is truly ready for show or go.

The chassis, brakes and suspension has been renewed as needed and engine and transmission were fully inspected and attended as required. The Topolino now starts, runs and rides very well and is ready to enjoy to the fullest.

Very clean and tidy example of a truly charming little car. Shows well, fully sorted and ready to enjoy the sun and summer. A remarkable trip to Italy lies in every ride; charming and sensible motoring with a pure sense of fun in motion. Top speed is around 55 mph and the Topolino cruises comfortably around town. Handling and braking ability are modest, but suited to urban duty or casual country driving lanes. There is comfortable seating for 2 and a useful cargo hold in the back. The folding sunroof opens a dimension of adventure to every ride. It’s a joy .. pure and simple.. hardly a machine, more like a magic carriage.

All import paperwork is in order, and fees and duty paid. Comes with current California title. The original Italian plates are included.

1949 FIAT Topolino C (D245)

Offered At $24,975

Price (before tax): $24,975

Make: FIAT

Year: 1949

Inventory number: D245

MODEL HISTORY : 1950 FIAT Topolino C

A true legend in Italy, the Fiat Topolino was introduced in 1936 and proved immediately popular. It was affordable, clever, practical and irresistibly cute. The design and engineering are credited to Dante Giacosa and considered quite advanced for the period. The very compact size was an excellent fit for Italian cities and roads, and the simple and straightforward design proved economical and durable. The original version was dubbed the Model A and continued in production until 1948 when the updated Model B was introduced. The final series Model C debuted in 1950 and was in production until 1955 with over 500,000 Topolinos eventually being sold. The Model C featured various detail changes, improvements and styling updates including a blunt nose in keeping with the period style, replacing the previous graceful grille.

Under the hood, a compact 569cc 4-cylinder overhead valve motor twists up all of 16 HP delivered to the rear wheels via a 4-speed transmission. Top speed is just above 55 mph and fuel economy tops 39 mpg. The Topolino also offered hydraulic drum brakes, rugged suspension and reasonable overall performance for the period. The unique layout placed the motor in front of the radiator offering great service access and a lower hoodline.

The charming bodystyle features front opening doors, twin bucket seats and a useful cargo area behind the seats. Tools and spare tuck under the tail in a separate compartment. It is classically Italian from every angle.

After a production run of 19 years, interrupted briefly by WWll, the Topo came to the end of the line. Fiat introduced the first 600 models in 1955 replacing the beloved Topolino series with a more modern vehicle better suited to the times.