Basic information and history

The 1965 FIAT 1500 De Luxe is the refined version of the 1300/1500 family, known for its balanced chassis geometry, distinctive steering feel (for the time) and a refined four-cylinder, four-stroke engine with overhead valves. The model combines period Italian design with simple, robust mechanics that make it attractive to enthusiasts who appreciate a light-footed character and easy handling. The De Luxe version was marked by a more lavish interior and detailed finish.

This car was bought new in Överkalix by the last owner's paternal uncle in 1965 and was therefore sold in Sweden from the start. According to the seller, the car was scrapped around 1973 and stored in a cold garage in Yttre Lansjärv, removed from the car register with the then BD plates. The ownership history has been within the same family since new: first the original owner, then an inheritance within the family, then the seller's father who took the car into his possession around 2014. When taken over, the engine had rusted solid. The engine was taken down and received new bearings and piston rings, as well as two replaced pistons and work on the cylinder head where valves were replaced and valve seats were remilled and the radiator was renovated with a new element. The water pump was also replaced. The car was registered again in 2016. The current seller then took over the car and continued the work. The clutch with pressure plate has also been replaced. In connection with the engine work, the engine compartment was painted.

According to the seller, the upholstery and paint are considered original. The car has been wet sanded and polished in recent years to lift the surface without repainting, while maintaining the patina.

Equipment and options

• De Luxe Package
• Sold in Sweden
• Weber carburetor
• Manual four-speed gearbox and rear-wheel drive
• Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes

Condition

Body and exterior condition: Original red paint with a clear contemporary patina. Several scratches and minor dents. Some rust has begun to bubble on the front fenders under the chrome strips and there are occasional rust spots according to the seller. Chrome, strips, headlight lenses and emblems are in working condition with light tarnishing. Turn signal lenses have lost color. Glass surfaces in very good condition. Engine compartment was painted during the renovation.

Interior: Very good overall impression according to the seller and probably original upholstery. The driver's seat has a small hole in the felt fabric. The foam padding around the instruments has dried and is falling like flour. The headliner is complete and in good condition but slightly yellowed with age. The steering wheel's bakelite is cracked. The door panels and sill trims show light wear on the felt trims, sills and lower parts.

Tires and rims: Fulda EcoControl 155/80 R13 manufactured in 2014, tread depth approximately five to six millimeters. Age should be taken into account when driving regularly.

Mechanics and function: The engine runs as it should according to the seller. The gearbox and driveline are stated to be in good condition. The brake system has been overhauled with refurbished discs and drums in 2025.

Service history

Circa 2014: Engine disassembled, new bearings and piston rings installed, two pistons replaced.

2015: Body polished to restore shine without repainting.

2016: Re-registered in traffic after a long layoff.

Then: Cylinder head renovation with new valves and re-milled seats. Radiator renovated with new element. Water pump replaced. Entire exhaust system replaced. Clutch and pressure plate replaced. Engine compartment painted in connection with the work.

2025: Body polished. Service with mineral oil and oil filter. Brake renovation of front discs and rear drums.

Documentation: History from the original owner is available according to the seller. A complete service book or receipts in a coherent sequence are not stated to exist.

Summary

A Swedish-sold FIAT 1500 De Luxe from 1965 with a coherent family history, retained original paint and probably also original interior. The car has received an extensive technical review where the engine, cooling system, exhaust system, clutch and brakes have been repaired, while the body's patina has been preserved. On the exterior there are scratches, minor dents and incipient rust in the front fenders, but the overall impression is an honestly presented utility and enthusiast car with a correct period feel. For those who want to preserve the original feel, there is a stable foundation with fresh mechanics. For those who aim for an exhibition finish, bodywork and repainting are required. This car is aimed at the enthusiast who prioritizes construction quality, easy-to-service technology and a clear link to FIAT's sixties heritage.