The Fiat 500 “Topolino” was created between the two World Wars with the aim of providing an affordable car to get the country on the road. The design was entrusted to a young Dante Giacosa, who was able to produce an accessible and innovative compact car which would go on to become a national icon. The Fiat 500B on display (1948) was part of the second series of the famous “Topolino”. Produced from 1948 to 1949 in around 21,000 units, it was a transitional model the 500A and the later 500C.
Renowned for its performance, it was one of the first Italian cars to combine versatility, low costs, and reliability. The nickname “Topolino” (Mickey Mouse in Italian) comes from its smaller size and the headlights located on the fenders which, when seen from the inside of the vehicle, recalled the profile of the iconic Disney character. Although this was never the official name, the three series produced between 1936 and 1955 are referred to as such.
- Production Years: 1948–1949
- Predecessor: [Fiat 500A Topolino (1936–1948)]
- Successor: [Fiat 500C (1949–1955)]
- Class: Microcar
- Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR)
- Nickname: Topolino (“little mouse”)
Technical Specifications
- Engine: 569 cc inline-4, side-valve
- Power Output: 16 hp @ 4400 rpm
- Top Speed: ~95 km/h (59 mph)
- Transmission: 4-speed manual
- Weight: ~535 kg (1,179 lbs)
Body Styles
- 2-door saloon (berlina) – fixed roof
- Convertible saloon (transformabile) – soft canvas top with fixed B-pillars
- Giardiniera station wagon – wood-sided estate introduced under the 500B name
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