1969 FIAT 500L

The Fiat 500L was introduced in 1968 as a more comprehensively equipped version of Fiat’s hugely successful 500. The ‘L’, standing for Lusso, brought a number of cosmetic and comfort improvements while retaining the compact dimensions and simple mechanical layout that had made the 500 such a familiar sight throughout Europe. Distinguishing features included revised bumpers with additional tubular sections, updated exterior trim and a more comprehensively appointed interior.

Power came from Fiat’s rear-mounted 499cc air-cooled two-cylinder engine, driving the rear wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox. With its lightweight construction, compact proportions and straightforward mechanical design, the 500L continued the formula of the original 500 while offering a more refined specification.

This left-hand-drive example left the Fiat factory in Turin in 1969 and has since been transformed into a charming tribute to the Italian Polizia. It is presented in period-correct Polizia livery and is equipped with blue emergency lights and siren, together with a Motorola Mocom-70 radio and PA system. The police beacon remains operational, although UK law requires that it is not used on public roads.

The car underwent a restoration during the late 2000s, with a photographic record accompanying the car. This includes photographs taken in November 2007 before restoration began, followed by work from August 2008 through to May 2009. The images document the Fiat being completely stripped down and rebuilt, including the fitment of numerous new body panels.

With its current keeper since 2017, the 500L has been regularly driven and performs beautifully. Its distinctive Polizia presentation makes this an entertaining and unusual example of one of Italy’s most recognisable cars, guaranteed to raise a smile and turn heads wherever it goes. Contact us now for more information or to arrange a viewing.