Fiat 500: The Car of the Economic Boom (Part One)

It’s small, practical and timeless. It may have aged a bit, but since 1957 the Fiat 500 has certainly racked up the miles. After putting Europe on wheels, it redefined the city-car segment with levels of style and technological innovation never before seen in its class. A major 2007 facelift made it more comfortable, modern and sprightly, driving its sales to record highs. Yet many still look back with fondness on the original model that captured the dreams and hopes of entire families. Twelve years after its comeback—the Fiat 500 once again takes centre stage—it continues to surprise. Today it returns in two brand-new flagship versions: the Star and the Rockstar, aimed at a young audience that isn’t afraid to treat itself.

The 1936 Microcar was nicknamed “Topolino,” but it wasn’t the first small vehicle concept. That idea actually dates back to 1915, though World War I delayed its launch until 1919. The result was a two-seat Torpedo with a 10-hp, four-cylinder engine capable of 65 km/h. Dubbed “the car that never was,” it had a brief life before being eclipsed by the Topolino and the 508 Balilla—after Mussolini summoned Senator Agnelli and insisted on a car that cost no more than 500 Lire, cementing the concept of the modern economy car.

Today’s Fiat 500 comes in two distinct personalities: one elegant, the other sporty. The elegant version offers a Lounge trim, while the sporty model stands out for its dynamic character. Both share an extensive standard equipment list, including the Uconnect 7-inch HD Live touchscreen radio with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, plus updated upholstery. Completing the range is the special-edition 500 120° Anniversario, a celebratory model that adds a premium BeatsAudio™ system as standard. All trims are available in both hatchback and cabriolet body styles. Engine choices include the 1.2-litre 69 hp (with Dualogic automatic or manual gearbox), the TwinAir 85 hp and the 1.2-litre LPG 69 hp—both manual.

The Star introduces a new Stella White paint with subtle pink undertones, matched with chrome accents, 16-inch alloy wheels and the Skydome glass roof. But that’s just the beginning: Gelato White, Carrara Grey, Vesuvio Black, Pompei Grey, Opera Bordeaux, Colosseo Grey, Dipinto di Blu Blue and Ice White round out an almost endless palette. Inside, you’ll find two colour schemes—White Sand and Black, or a Matelassé version with eco-leather detailing and a burgundy-embroidered 500 logo. The dashboard band comes in pearlescent White Sand or matte Bordeaux, and the cockpit features a 7-inch TFT digital instrument display—one of the best in its class.

With a refined look and bold personality, the Rockstar builds on the Sport’s styling cues: bespoke bumpers, side skirts, glass roof, 16-inch wheels and satin-chrome trim. It debuts a new matte Portofino Green finish alongside Gelato White, Carrara Grey, Passion Red, Vesuvio Black, Pompei Grey, Opera Bordeaux, Colosseo Grey, Italia Blue and Ice White. Inside, the central seat stripe is inspired by pinstripe suits, flank panels sport grey or blue accents, and the upper section is in black eco-leather. The dashboard is available in matte dark green with grey or satin graphite with blue. Elegant chrome door sills and the latest 7-inch TFT display—offering speedometer, tachometer, trip-computer data and Uconnect info—complete the cabin.