Here’s something you don’t see every day. This 1952 Fiat 500 Topolino, currently listed on eBay, represents a charming piece of early postwar European motoring and a reminder of how simple, lightweight cars once defined everyday transportation. With 69,889 miles showing and described as an older restoration, it’s being offered as a running, driving example that can be enjoyed as-is. Thanks for the tip, Araknid78!
Finished in burgundy with a tan cloth interior, this Topolino is said to present well overall following restoration work completed years ago. The seller describes the body as straight and the undercarriage as extremely solid, both important traits for a small vintage car where structural integrity matters. The paint is noted as older, with some minor chips, but still showing nicely overall alongside bright chrome.
Inside, the interior and convertible top were reportedly redone about five years ago and are said to remain in very good condition. The compact cabin reflects the car’s original purpose: simple, practical transportation rather than luxury. That’s part of the Topolino’s appeal—its minimalism, light weight, and classic European proportions make it stand out in a sea of larger American classics.
Power comes from a four-cylinder engine paired with a manual transmission driving the rear wheels. According to the seller, the car runs and drives very nicely and can be enjoyed without immediate mechanical work. New tires have also been installed, suggesting it has been kept road-ready.
The Topolino—Italian for “little mouse”—was Fiat’s answer to affordable mobility in the mid-20th century. By 1952, the design had evolved through several iterations, becoming one of the most recognizable small cars of its era. Survivors like this often attract collectors who appreciate microcars, European classics, or simply vehicles with personality and history.
This example is described as a clean-title car with an older restoration that still presents well, making it appealing for someone who wants a usable vintage piece rather than a ground-up project. It’s the kind of car that fits perfectly into weekend drives, local shows, or a curated collection focused on unusual and historically significant vehicles.
For enthusiasts who appreciate simplicity, character, and the story behind early postwar transportation, this Topolino offers a chance to own a small but meaningful part of automotive history—one that can still be driven and enjoyed today.
This is great! Well, dear, not everyday, but apparently every other day, and what is funny, is both women writers wrote them up. What does THAT tell you? Somehow I just can’t see Jim O writing up a Topolino,,maybe, pays the bills,,:)
Without repeating from Ms. Rands post, and entirely understandable, as writers might work for days on a post( no Peterbilt yet, though) but rather uncanny 2 of these in a week. Again, our only association back then with these are altered gassers and never actually saw an original one, like a Willys or Henry J. I often ridicule the Europeans for the seemingly lackluster, lack powered vehicles they had compared to our behemoth gas hogs, but as an old man, I wonder who was smarter in that regard. Great for the roundabouts of Rome, but I-70, not so much.
Starting price is $19,950 with an option to make an offer.
Again, basic information that should be included with every write-up.
For sure!