1972 Fiat 500L Lusso Resto Mod

Background:

Released in 1957 as the ultimate car for the people, the Fiat 500 was designed to get Italians moving in style and at low cost. An instant success, it remained in production for 18 years.

Measuring just 9' 9" in length, it was perfectly suited to weaving through Italy’s narrow streets. In many ways, it was ahead of its time as a micro city car. Over its production run, Fiat built nearly four million examples of what is now considered a cult classic.

The Car:

This Fiat 500L (Lusso) has been stunningly restored and treated to an extensive resto-mod build at a cost of over £45,000, making it undoubtedly one of the most attractive examples available today. The work was completed by several experienced craftsmen, resulting in a finished product that is both beautiful and highly desirable.

Professionally built and meticulously specified, the car is finished in a historic 1950s Fiat Grigio (grey) paintwork, complemented by a bespoke AJ Tillet cream beige leatherette interior. It presents exceptionally well, thanks to the outstanding level of craftsmanship throughout.

Under the bonnet, it features bespoke upgrades, including a locally assembled Fiat 126 'Abarth' 650cc engine with CSC sports exhaust — having covered only 234 miles since completion. The impressive specification includes:

• Fiat 126 full-synchronised 4-speed gearbox
• New canvas folding sunroof
• Bespoke interior headlining
• De-seamed front panel and sills
• De-chromed exterior
• Stainless steel bumpers
• Sports rear springs and dampers
• Modified cross-braced floor pan
• Rack and pinion steering
• Front disc brake conversion
• 12-inch 'Stilauto RAY' multispoke alloy wheels in black
• Sportline wood steering wheel
• Steel dash with OE speedometer
• Modified headlights and exterior lamps
• Full replacement fitted carpets
• Powder-coated fuel tank, heater ducts, and fan housing
• Numerous additional bespoke touches

The history file includes a comprehensive collection of invoices and photographs documenting the full build. The car has also been featured in a magazine, with a copy included.

2347 miles have been covered since completion of the build. The replacement speedometer was professionally refurbished in 2016 after failing at around 2100 miles and now shows 250 at last reading.

Supplied freshly serviced, fully operational and ready to enjoy.

Location: East Sussex
Seller: Trade
Photography: Professional