Fiat 500 as a used car: stylish, but is it reliable?

As a stylish used car, the Fiat 500 has many fans. What should you look for in second-hand examples piese auto online.

Fiat 500 as a used car: stylish, but is it reliable?

THE RETRO BUSINESS was revived at Fiat in 2007. The new generation of the Fiat 500 thrilled Europe like a perfect cappuccino during the summer holidays. Until a few months ago, the model was produced at the brand's Polish plant in the city of Tychy. Inspired by the cult small car of the 1950s, the "mini" created by Roberto Giolito brought back the rounded elements, for which it is still loved not only by Italians. The small three-door car fits in (almost) a parking space and with its configuration attracts everyone's attention.

The 3.57-meter-long 500 is a mix between a small car and a fashion accessory. It follows the logic of many women's handbags, being supplemented almost every year with new colors and shades of equipment, and so its production period was maintained for a long time. In 2015, there was a facelift with new light graphics and Uconnect infotainment systems. Overall, the chrome accents and numerous design details are pleasant. The interior is charming, the appearance is better than the quality. The cockpit control concept is traditional with classic buttons and switches. The space offered is easily predictable. You can fit in the front if you are up to 1.90 m tall, while only small children or shopping bags can be placed in the back.

THIS OFFERS
The variety on the market is enormous. In addition to the usual hardtop versions, there is an M-sliding roof and a 500C with a large fabric roof. Whether it is the 500 Diesel, Dolce Vita, Gucci for fashion fans or the Riva with fine Poltrona Frau leather and prestigious yacht-like ambience – Fiat caters to almost every taste. In terms of drive, the robust 1.2-liter gasoline engine with 69 hp is recommended. The 0.9-liter TwinAir 2-cylinder engine with 86 or 105 hp accelerates quickly, but becomes greedy under load. In 2020, the 70 hp mild hybrid Hybrid with a belt starter-generator appears. Exotic and unpopular in service stations are the versions with propane-butane, methane and the electric version intended for the United States. Powerful diesel engines are also available – but they are rare.

THIS IS HOW IT'S MANAGED
With the City button, the short 500 becomes extremely easy to drive and maneuverable. However, the stiff suspension hits you like a double espresso. The steering is direct, the engines are agile. It gets noisy on the highway - there the 500 is sensationally economical with the Multijet diesel engine. It is recommended that the 500 be used for the city, not as a marathon runner.

THIS CREATES POISONS
The quality is not at a very good level. With increasing age, it deteriorates further – especially with careless owners. Oil leaks and damaged exhaust systems are constant problems. TwinAir engines have a tendency to consume oil during more sporty driving. Hub bearings and brakes often wear out. Unmaintained and driven in winters with snow and salt, specimens quickly show signs of corrosion. So far, there are 43 known service campaigns for the model.

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THE RETRO BUSINESS was revived at Fiat in 2007

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