Fiat 120 Nuova 500 Giardiniera, 1965 | € 16.950,--

The Fiat 500 Giardiniera was presented in 1960 as the estate version of the Nuova 500, offering greater practicality while retaining the charm of the diminutive city car. It was the only variant to feature a lengthened wheelbase, which allowed for a flat loading floor and increased luggage capacity. To achieve this, Fiat ingeniously repositioned the 499 cc two-cylinder engine horizontally beneath the boot floor, preserving interior space. The Giardiniera retained the rear-hinged “suicide” doors of the early 500 models, a feature that added to its period character. With its characteristic boxy silhouette and extended roofline, it was instantly recognisable compared to the rounded saloon. Production was initially handled by Fiat but later transferred to the coachbuilder Autobianchi, which continued manufacturing the model until 1977. The car was marketed under both Fiat and Autobianchi badges, depending on the period and market. Despite modest performance, with around 17 horsepower, it was valued for its versatility and economy. The Giardiniera became popular with small businesses and families who needed a compact yet practical vehicle. The Fiat 500 Giardiniera was the longest-lived version of the classic 500, combining utility with the charm of Fiat’s most legendary small car design. 

Technical data*:

engine: 2-cylinder inline, air-cooled, OHV
cylinder capacity: 499 cc
induction: 1 carburettor
capacity: 17.5 hp at 4,000 rpm
torque: approx. 27 Nm at 3,800 rpm
gearbox: 4-speed manual, non-synchronised first gear
top-speed: 95 km/h (59 mph)
acceleration 0–60 mph: approx. 55–60 seconds
brakes: drum brakes around
drive: rear-wheel drive
weight: around 560–570 kg

_{*Source: Manufacturer data and period road tests (Fiat archives, Quattroruote, Carfolio).}