The 'Gran Madre' church made famous in 'The Italian Job' film, faces Piazza Vittorio Veneto where the event was based throughout the day.

Story and photos by Simon Grand

In anticipation of the grand Fourth of July introduction of the new 500, classic 500’s gradually filled the Piazza Vittorio Veneto throughout the day, and the excitement started to build and more and more spectators started to arrive. With the ‘Gran Madre’ church (as seen inThe Italian Job film) as a backdrop and a clear sky it promised to be a special day. Highlights of possibly the largest ever display of Fiat 500’s were difficult to pick out although it was the older cars and the coachbuilt specials that stood out from the crowd.

All of the city’s characteristic squares had some recognition of the celebrations including the ‘Fiat 500 Club Italia’ organizing a 500 car rally and a display of virtually every model of the iconic 500 made throughout the cars 20 years of production. Many of the shops in Turin’s historic centre have been displaying components of the new car for several days, creating anticipation and helping to get the public into the spirit of the event.

Fiat 500 Jolly, very popular at auctions these days.

Fiat 500 Sport: Preceding all Abarth versions, this was the first sports model in the 500 range, raced with great success and creating publicity that helped Fiat to increase sales. This rare model was produced for a limited period from 1958 before being superseded by a version with an opening roof due to the excessive accumulation of heat in the cabin.

This Australian 500 is on its way around the world.

An original 1957 Fiat 500.

And this, a two liter mid-engined 500. Something for everone.

Francis Lombardi Camioncino: This 500 Giardiniera-based pick-up was built by Francis Lombardi of Vercelli and sold by Giannini in 1963. This particular vehicle is the original launch vehicle!

500 Kilowat elecric car.

Abarth 595SS.

Caprera ‘Ragno’: Thought to be unique, this racy coupe was shown at the Salone dell’Automobile di Torino in 1969. It was produced by the carrozzeria Caprera of Turin and was based on the platform of a 500F with an increased engine capacity of 590cc.

Ferves Ranger 500.

595S Simpatico: Limited edition barchetta designed by Peter Stevens in 1993, based on a tuned Fiat 126 base.

A highly decorated 500 from Sicily.

Fissore Mongho 650: Produced as a publicity vehicle for Glasurit automotive paints, this car was also launched in Turin in 1969. The car was designed by Aldo Sessano and produced by Carrozzeria Fissore.