Tiny Driver: 1970 Fiat 500L

Developing a large car is relatively easy because there is typically room to adjust its physical dimensions. However, small cars pose a greater challenge because they often require creative thinking when contemplating packaging efficiency. This 1970 Fiat 500L perfectly encapsulates that philosophy, providing room for four people in a car under ten feet in overall length. It presents exceptionally well and is a turnkey proposition that will plaster a smile on the new owner’s face. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mike F. for spotting the Fiat listed here on Craigslist in Parker, Colorado. The seller set their price at $12,250, making it an affordable weekend toy.

Many European nations were brought to their knees during World War II, and it would take some decades to recover. Various governments recognized that the first step in financial recovery was accessible and affordable private transport. This mobility would allow the population to commute to work and spend some of their hard-earned cash on weekend outings. Fiat responded in 1957 with the 500, a vehicle that remained on sale until 1975. The company sold almost four million of these little beasts, and the badge’s popularity led to a retro-tribute model hitting showroom floors in 2007. The 500 evolved slowly during its production life. Fiat released the more luxurious 500L derivative in 1968, with our feature car rolling off the line in 1970. Finished in Code 601 Black, it is guaranteed to draw attention. The paint is excellent, the panels are straight, and there is no evidence of the rust problems that often plague these classics. I would still recommend an in-person inspection to assess the underside, because even though these are relatively simple vehicles, even minor rust can become a major drama. The seller mentions the fabric sunroof, although it was a compulsory feature. The military had first call on steel in post-war Italy, and Fiat’s sunroof not only reduces steel usage but also made the 500 slightly lighter. When you’re dealing with a car with modest engine power, every pound counts. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear.

If you assess many European post-war models that were developed as “people’s cars,” they almost all shared one engineering trait: Their creators sent the engine’s power to the wheels at the same end of the car. For instance, the Citroen 2CV and the Mini were front-engine/front-wheel-drive, while the Volkswagen Beetle and the Fiat 500L sent power from their air-cooled, rear-mounted engines to the rear wheels. This Fiat’s two-cylinder engine is tiny, with a capacity of just 499 cc. It sends approximately 20hp to the road via a four-speed manual transaxle. Fiat quoted a top speed of 59mph, although I wouldn’t want to stretch the twin by maintaining that speed for too long. Where these cars shine is in heavy city traffic, slipping through gaps that would stump larger vehicles. The seller describes the Fiat as a hoot to drive, a statement which doesn’t surprise me. It appears to be a turnkey proposition, ready for action with its new owner behind the wheel.

I’m not surprised to discover that this Fiat’s interior is trimmed in Red. It provides a striking contrast to the exterior paint shade, guaranteeing that people give the car a thumbs-up wherever it goes. The trim and carpet are excellent, with no visible wear. The plastic dash fascia hasn’t warped or deteriorated, and the gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings. Life aboard the 500L represents motoring at its most basic, because there isn’t even a radio. That was consistent with the company’s aim for affordability, but the back seat is the party piece. There is room to seat two adults, and while there won’t be much legroom, it is a notable achievement for such a tiny vehicle.

I respect all classics, regardless of their size, rarity, or performance potential. I am always drawn to vehicles like this 1970 Fiat 500L, because they are invariably the product of lateral thinking to accommodate so many people in such a modest space. This car is a gem, and it has no apparent needs. The Fiat 500 enjoys a cult following, and I suspect this 500L will find a new home fairly quickly. Are you tempted to make it yours?