1960 Fiat 600 Multipla

High bid of $30,000 at 2014 Mecum - Monterey. (did not sell)
After civilian vehicle production took a back seat during WWII so companies could focus on making materials in support of the war effort, there were plenty of gaps to fill in Europe and American infrastructure. Management of Fiat attempt to build affordable and versatile vehicles that would appeal to a wide range of customers. Their 600 was an instant success with more than 2.7 million cars sold during its production lifespan. The 600 was so successful that in 1956 Fiat created a new version called the 600 Multipla. Its design was loosely styled after a station wagon and it was created as a multi-service vehicle to server many different needs. It was offered in three versions. The first version sat up to five people and the seats could be folded down to create a bed. The second version sat six people by utilizing bench seats that also collapsed into the floor to create a flat cargo deck. The third version was outfitted as a taxi and included a single front seat with a luggage rack and a bench seat behind a divider.

There were several differences between the 600 and the 600 Multipla, beyond just the visual bodystyle differences. Other differences found on the 600 Multipla included the radiator, front wishbone suspension, different gear ratios allowing for heavier loads, interior lamps and larger fuel tank.

This particular example has been given a no expense spared restoration that was completed in July of 2014. The car is finished in Baby Blue with a matching interior. Power is from a rear mounted 633cc 4-cylinder water-cooled engine that drives the rear wheels via a 4-speed manual transmission.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2016

The Fiat 600 was a small and inexpensive automobile that was easy to produce. It was introduced to the public at the Geneva Motorshow in 1955. The automobile was capable of transporting up to six individuals. During its production lifespan lasting from 1955 through 1969, nearly 2.7 million examples were produced.

The introductory saloon model featured two doors and four seats. The base engine was a 633 cc water-cooled four-cylinder power plant capable of producing nearly 22 horsepower. The engine was located behind the rear seats and drove the rear wheels. The suspension was independent and featured monocoque construction. A four-speed manual gearbox with a cable-operated clutch was standard. The combined dry weight of the vehicle was just over 580 kg.

The following year two more versions were introduced, the Multipla and a version with a full-length canvas roof. The Multipla had three rows of seats and could accommodate up to six people. The four back seats could be folded into the floor, exposing a large cargo area.

The Fiat 600 helped mobilize the entire Italian country and is considered an economical phenomenon.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008