Dive into the Enchanting World of Fiat 500s – Real Italian Car Company Unveils Stunning Photos!
City-car fans, mark your calendars for November 2023. That’s when Fiat North America is unveiling the American version of the 2024 500e. But as exciting as that is for buyers of stylish EVs as well as Fiat’s current U.S. lineup it’s not the only Cinquecento resurrection. A new company in Italy is building classic 500 restomods, and unlike Singer’s 911s or Cyan Racing’s Volvo P1800s, buying one won’t require a second mortgage.
In the world of automotive legends, the Fiat Nuova 500 holds a special place. Real Italian Cars, a new venture based in the Tuscan city of Lucca, Italy, has taken on the task of restoring these iconic vehicles to their former glory. Co-founded by Amedeo Provenzali, Anthony Peacock, and Mattia Vita—individuals deeply connected to Italian automotive culture Real Italian Cars aims to preserve the heritage and charm of the original Fiat Nuova 500 while making it accessible to a wider audience.
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The Resurrection of the Fiat Nuova 500
The Fiat Nuova 500, produced between 1957 and 1975, has captivated the hearts of many car enthusiasts. However, with the passing of time, these charming vehicles have become increasingly rare. Real Italian Cars recognized the need to safeguard these classics and embarked on a mission to restore and preserve them for future generations.
Real Italian Cars: The Restomod Specialists
Real Italian Cars takes pride in its expertise in the restoration and customization of the Fiat Nuova 500. With a team of passionate professionals, including rally driver Mattia Vita and automotive consultant Anthony Peacock, the company is committed to delivering impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The Range of Services Offered
At Real Italian Cars, customers have a wide range of services to choose from. Whether it’s a simple cosmetic correction, interior and engine work, a full restoration, or a custom overhaul, the team can fulfill any client’s vision. The shop embraces modern touches, such as equipping the vehicles with an Apple CarPlay–compatible stereo, while retaining the charm and authenticity of the original design.
Restoring the Classic Fiat 500
Real Italian Cars specializes in restoring all models of the Fiat 500, from the base 500D to the open-air 500 Jolly with its unique wicker seats. The team’s commitment to preserving the heritage of these vehicles ensures that every restoration project is carried out with the utmost care and respect for the original craftsmanship.
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Customization Options
For those seeking a personalized touch, Real Italian Cars offers customization options. Clients can choose to restore their Fiat 500 to its original specifications or add modern features and upgrades. The shop has already received requests for Abarth re-creations, catering to enthusiasts who desire a more spirited driving experience.
Powertrain Upgrades: More Power, Better Performance
To enhance performance, Real Italian Cars provides the option to swap the original air-cooled 499cc two-cylinder engine and crash gearbox for a Fiat 126 powertrain. With a larger powerplant and gear synchros, the upgraded engine delivers more power and smoother gear transitions. This improvement makes a noticeable difference in driving pleasure, especially considering the stock 1957 500’s limited performance.
The Potential for Electric Conversions
Real Italian Cars is at the forefront of innovation and is currently prototyping and testing an electric vehicle (EV) conversion for the Nuova 500. Leveraging the simplicity of the original Fiat 500’s mechanical design, the team believes these cars are ideal candidates for electric conversions. Although there are some challenges to overcome, such as brake modifications to accommodate the extra weight of the batteries, Real Italian Cars aims to offer EV conversion options by the end of summer 2023.
Ordering and Shipping to the U.S.
Real Italian Cars welcomes orders from American clients and even arranges shipping to the United States. Whether it’s a Florida resident looking for a build or a California enthusiast planning an Italian summer road trip, the company ensures a seamless experience. While the registration process and smog inspections may vary depending on the state, most restored 1957–1975 500 models comply with the 25-year rule, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy these restomods without legal barriers.
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Legal Considerations for Owning a Restomod
Owning a restored Fiat 500 involves understanding the legal considerations associated with vintage vehicles. Real Italian Cars advises potential buyers to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations in their respective states. However, owing to the meticulous restoration process and compliance with emission standards, driving these restomods in the U.S. should not pose significant obstacles.
Affordable Pricing for Classic Car Enthusiasts
Real Italian Cars understands the passion for classic cars and strives to make these restomods accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts. With “mates’ rates” pricing starting at €9000 (approximately $9800), inclusive of the donor car, the company offers competitive pricing. The cost varies depending on the chosen model and the level of customization. Even a restoration of the iconic Jolly model begins at a little over $27,000—an attractive proposition considering the rising market prices of original Fiat Nuova 500s.
Conclusion
Real Italian Cars is reviving the spirit of the Fiat Nuova 500 through meticulous restorations and modern enhancements. Their passion for preserving automotive heritage, combined with customization options and powertrain upgrades, creates a unique opportunity for city-car enthusiasts. With the potential for future EV conversions, these restomods continue to evolve while staying true to the original charm of the Fiat 500. Real Italian Cars invites buyers from the United States to experience the joy of owning a piece of Italian automotive history.
Original Source: caranddriver
