1949 Fiat 500 Topolino

The Fiat 500 was commonly known as the 'Topolino' which translates as 'little mouse' in Italian. It was among the smallest production cars in the world and produced from 1936 to 1955. Launched in 1937, by Dante Giacosa, three models were produced until 1955. Power was from a 569cc four-cylinder, water-cooled, side-valve engine mounted in front of the front axle. It produced 13 horsepower and had a top speed of just over 50 mph, with a fuel economy rating of nearly 40 mpg. Horsepower rose to 16 hp with the introduction of the Model B.

The Model A was produced from 1937 to 1948, and the Model B was produced in 1948 and 1949. Bodystyles on the Model A included a 2-door saloon, 2-door convertible saloon (saloon with folding roof) and a 2-door van. The Model B was available in these same body styles, along with a 3-door estate. The Model C was introduced in 1949 and given a restyled body and powered by the same Model B engine.

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2019