FIAT 500 F '68

aspiration

NA (Naturally Aspirated)

Group

Gr.N

Displacement

499 cc

DriveTrain

RR

Height

1,335 mm

Length

2,970 mm

Weight

520 kg

Width

1,320 mm

Max Power

16 BHP / 4,500 rpm

Max Torque

3.1 kgfm / 2,000 rpm

Performance Point

PP 85.03

Manufacturer

Fiat

FIAT 500 F '68: The Iconic Italian City Car that Captured Hearts Worldwide

The FIAT 500 F '68 is a classic symbol of Italian automotive ingenuity and charm. Introduced in 1965, the "F" model was a pivotal update to the original FIAT 500, a car that had been revolutionizing urban mobility since 1957. The '68 version, often affectionately referred to as the "Cinquecento," was designed to be the affordable people's car for post-war Italy. With its tiny dimensions, curvaceous bodywork, and unmistakable character, the FIAT 500 offered a practical and stylish solution for city driving at a time when car ownership was just taking off for millions of Europeans.

The 1968 FIAT 500 F featured a more robust and accessible design compared to its predecessors, with front-hinged doors replacing the earlier 'suicide' doors and an improved interior layout. Powered by an air-cooled, 499cc two-cylinder engine, the 500 F produced a modest 18 horsepower, but its light weight allowed nimble handling in tight urban environments. Despite its compact size, the car could comfortably seat four—another reason for its immense popularity among families and young drivers. The car's styling, efficiency, and affordability made it a beloved fixture in Italian cities and small towns alike.

The success of the FIAT 500 F '68 wasn't limited to Italy. Its reliability, low running costs, and endearing looks helped it become a sought-after export, reaching markets across Europe and beyond. Over the decades, the 500 turned into a design icon, celebrated for its role in democratizing car ownership and defining the look of the Italian Dolce Vita era. While it wasn't built for racing, a thriving community of enthusiasts and tuners developed around the car, and today, Fiat 500 classic races and rallies are popular events across Europe.

The enduring legacy of the FIAT 500 F '68 lives on in Fiat's modern vehicles, especially the retro-styled New 500 introduced in 2007. This modern reinterpretation pays homage to the original's spirit while featuring state-of-the-art technology. For car collectors, nostalgia lovers, and anyone looking for a slice of automotive history, the 1968 FIAT 500 F remains a cherished symbol of practicality, optimism, and Italian style.