Basic Information & History

1971 FIAT 500 – Abarth "Superiore" Replica, 844cc ~70 hp, Unique History

The Fiat 500 is one of the most iconic small cars in automotive history – beloved for its charming looks, lively character, and huge personality despite its tiny size. This 1971 example is anything but ordinary: here, historic elegance meets a thorough, passionate, and well-documented performance restoration.

Originally from France, this car was registered in Sweden on 2025-06-12. What makes this particular example truly special is its ownership and historical background. Reportedly, it had just one user; after his passing, the car was hidden away in a garage in Ventimiglia, Italy for 9 years, until the current owner and his wife purchased it in 2015. It was mainly used in Menton, France, as the perfect city-friendly shopping car – but it also became the subject of an ambitious and knowledgeable performance project, led by a former mechanic.

The odometer shows 97,943 km, and the car carries a wealth of fascinating history. For example, the windshield is adorned with the text “FiatAllorb500” and two Capricorn emblems – a witty nod to the Abarth myth, where the owner, born under the Capricorn sign and nicknamed “Brolla,” created his very own “Superiore” version of the classic Abarth.

Equipment & Options

1. Reinforced springs and shock absorbers
2. Front disc brakes
3. Wider rims (from 3.5 to 4.5 inches) and wider tires
4. 5-speed gearbox (by D’Angelo Motori, ~16,000 km)
5. New 844cc engine (~70 hp – original: 499cc / 18 hp)
6. Oil cooler and electric fuel pump with pressure regulator
7. Special feature: 5-ton compressor horn – plays the first 8 bars of the French national anthem
8. A 650cc ~30 hp engine is included in the sale, together with spare parts (see pictures)
9. Tilt trailer with winch included

New Spare Parts Included

1. Pressure regulator
2. Drive belt for alternator and fan (844cc engine)
3. V-belt for alternator and fan (650cc engine)
4. Fuel hose
5. Various bulbs
6. Clutch cable
7. Alternator brushes
8. Fuses
9. Gaskets between cylinder head and exhaust manifold/pipe
10. Carburetor intake funnels
11. Sunroof lock
12. Dual ignition coil

Used Parts Included

1. Rear wheel spacers (9 mm thick, increases track width by an additional 18 mm)
2. Rear wheel brake cylinders
3. Rear brake shoes

Tools & Miscellaneous Included

1. Full cover tarpaulin (see picture)
2. Socket for wheel bolts
3. Socket for gearbox drain plug
4. Special tool for easy access to the distributor locking nut (for ignition adjustment)
5. Touch-up paint for wheels

Modifications & Enhancements

The body has been modified with wider rims and repositioned engine lid for optimal cooling and improved airflow to the carburetor. The engine is heavily upgraded with performance parts from D’Angelo Motori, including a new crankshaft, forged pistons, Dellorto carburetor (recommended by the engine builder), steel flywheel, improved cylinder head, and more – resulting in ~70 hp. Steering, suspension, and brakes are also upgraded to match performance. Service and replacements have been carried out with high quality and consistency.

Condition

Body & Exterior

The paintwork holds very good quality for being 54 years old, with minor touch-ups on the fenders after parking scratches. Small scratch on the driver’s side window glass. Chrome, trim, lenses, and emblems are in very nice condition. Wider rims and sporty tires enhance its appearance, and the modified body ensures better cooling.

Interior

For its age, the interior is in very good condition. The headliner is intact and well-fitted. The wooden steering wheel is attractive but has a minor crack. Controls, switches, and other details are fresh considering the age.

Wheels & Tires

Tires are in good condition. Wider rims give the car the right stance and improved handling.

Tread depth:

1. Front left: 4.5 mm
2. Front right: 4.5 mm
3. Rear left: 5.0 mm
4. Rear right: 4.5 mm

Mechanics & Function

The 844cc engine, built by D’Angelo Motori, has only run about 7,500 km – in top condition. The 5-speed gearbox (D’Angelo Motori) has covered ~16,000 km and works flawlessly. The braking system has been fully overhauled with new hoses, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers, drums, and pads. All mechanical service has been meticulously carried out according to a strict schedule. Reinforced gearbox mounts result in slightly higher cabin noise.

Service History

Service has been carefully performed by the current owner (a former mechanic). Oil and filter changes every 7,000 km (next at 101,000 km) with fully synthetic oil, and gearbox oil changes every 20,000 km (next at 113,000 km). Kingpins greased every 1,300 km and valve clearances checked every 5,000 km.

The car passed inspection on 2025-03-20 without remarks. A handwritten receipt from the purchase is included; further invoices for major parts (engine, etc.) may be available.

Summary

This is more than just a Fiat 500 – it is a lavish enthusiast build combining all the qualities of the cult classic with upgraded performance, engineering, and unique history. Rarely so well documented and with quirky, delightful details that entertain and impress, this is the perfect car if you seek a combination of genuine classic, race replica, and conversation piece.

Whether you want to stand out at car meets, enjoy twisty backroads, or add something truly special to your collection, this is the car for you.

Don’t miss the chance to place a winning bid on this unique 1971 FIAT 500 at Bidders Highway!