Vigo Motor Show: Fiat 500

Although it has been on the market for some time now, the Fiat 500 remains an everlasting novelty, a centre of attention and an object of desire. It is the reincarnation of a legend, with Italian retro style and its modernity too. It is urban, it is many things… but above all attractive.

Unlike the Mini, the Fiat 500 is born to claim a unique territory: the city. Outside it, it is not much (if I may say so), and mechanically it does not feel as agile, at least until Abarth gets its hands on it and puts its stamp on the version that will be sold.

Nevertheless, despite its long history, the 500 has not yet managed to establish itself in the Spanish market, unlike its great rival. Around it there are very diverse opinions, many of them not particularly favourable towards its design.

Personally, and after having got in, looked at it and photographed it in detail… I have not the slightest doubt that we are looking at a future success in Spain too, given that it already is one in other countries. Small in size, big on the inside; it has seemed far roomier than I expected, and it is true that the rear seats are reserved for children and contortionists, but the front seats and the driving position are comfortable, spacious and, in particular, offer excellent visibility thanks to their high position.

As for the finish, anyone who thinks that Italian cars, let alone ones made in eastern European countries (see the case), are poorly built is mistaken. The 500 offers pleasant materials and shows no apparent signs of poor choices in them; everything is pleasant to the touch and conveys a sense of durability.

That said, it must also be admitted that this last point may be due to our sense of sight being overwhelmed by so much beauty. The white colour this unit wore is, for me, the best choice and so far the most common too, it shines whichever way you look at it, and its short length does not match the wheelbase, which is stretched as far as possible. Combined with this, a wide chassis gives it great poise, which translates into unique ease and driving pleasure, although of course… everything is limited to the city for now.

But the 500 is one of those cars that cannot be viewed objectively; nobody can. The customer loves it and the 500 loves the customer. It creates a whole community around it and gives its owner an identity that no other car would give, and it also allows owners to personalise it to their taste with an endless list of extras.

Specifically, for the one we were talking about, the black chequered stickers on the roof and the number five on the bonnet are extras, as is the air conditioning it came with. The rest of the equipment is what comes with the Sport version, which, combined with the engine it had, the 1.4 with 100 horsepower, is priced at 15,686 euros.

It should be borne in mind that this is the most expensive version and the one with the most powerful engine, but even so, and despite being an exclusive car, the Fiat 500 is not an expensive car. In fact, prices start at 10,790 euros, which will win over buyers looking for a good price, alongside those who want it for what it is.

I am an unconditional lover of it, and this assessment may be more passionate than rational… but allow me to say that the 500 is one of the best cars I have seen in years. Do you like it? Are you thinking of buying one? Don’t hesitate, do it!

Photos: Eduardo Mariz
Thanks to the dealership Recalvi Autos, S.A..