🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

FIAT

Model:

500

Model Generation:

Nuova 500 (1957-1975)

Model Codes:

Various, including Giardiniera, Sport, D, F, L, R

Covered Years:

1960-1973

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Essential resource for owners and mechanics of the iconic Fiat 500 (1960-1973) seeking detailed repair and maintenance guidance.

Competitive Analysis:

Distinguishes itself from generic manuals by being make, model, and year-specific, offering unparalleled accuracy and detail for this classic Italian vehicle.

Key Features:

Instant download, step-by-step diagrams, comprehensive coverage, PC/Mac compatibility, zoomable PDF format.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Workshop Repair Procedures, Engine Rebuilding, Electrical Systems, Service Procedures, Fluid Capacities, Maintenance, Repair.

Page Count:

Undisclosed (typically hundreds for comprehensive manuals)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

ENGLISH

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

General Information, Lubrication, Inspection and Adjustment, Fuel System, Engine Removal/Installation, Cylinder Head/Valve, Cylinder/Piston, Crankcase, Crankshaft/Primary shaft, Clutch, Gearshift Linkage, Sub transmission, Transmission, Front Wheel/Suspension, Rear Wheel/Suspension, Hydraulic Brake, Battery/Charging System, Ignition System, Electric Starter, Switches, Technical Features, Troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Complete engine rebuilding, re-wiring, detailed service procedures, troubleshooting, maintenance tasks, component adjustments, disassembly and reassembly of all major systems.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects of repair and maintenance from basic adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Pc Mac Compatibility:

YES

Zoom Functionality:

YES

Print Quality:

Printable pages

Binding Type:

Digital (Instant Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, two-cylinder, inline (OHV)

Displacement:

479cc (early models), 499.5cc (later models)

Bore X Stroke:

67.4 mm x 70 mm (499.5cc)

Horsepower:

13-25 hp (depending on model and tune)

Torque:

Approximately 2.8-3.7 kgm (20-27 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm

Top Speed:

80-110 km/h (50-68 mph)

Fuel Delivery:

Single downdraft carburetor (e.g., Weber 26/32 DMTR, Solex 26/32 CAITA)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91/95)

Ignition System:

Distributor-based ignition with points and condenser

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Manual, synchronized

Number Of Gears:

4-speed forward, 1 reverse

Optional Transmission:

Some models featured a semi-automatic 'Autolambda' transmission.

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate clutch

Final Drive:

Rear-wheel drive

Gearshift Mechanism:

Remote linkage operated by a floor-mounted gear lever.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2.97 meters (117 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1.32 meters (52 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1.32 meters (52 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1.84 meters (72.4 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 400-500 kg (880-1100 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 700-800 kg (1540-1760 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Not subject to modern crash testing standards due to its era of production.

Active Safety Features:

Limited; Hydraulic drum brakes on all wheels, direct steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Basic body structure, lap seat belts (often optional or added later).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM radio (optional), analog gauges.

Driver Assistance Systems:

None.

Connectivity Options:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or annually, as per original manual recommendations.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Check and adjust gap every 5,000 km; replace as needed.

Valve Adjustment:

Recommended at regular intervals, typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 20W-50 or SAE 10W-30 (depending on climate), API SF or SG rated.

Transmission Oil Specification:

API GL-4 SAE 80W-90 gear oil.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check system compatibility).

Coolant Specification:

Not applicable (air-cooled engine).

Known Issues:

Rust susceptibility (especially floor pans, sills), carburetor tuning difficulties, electrical system fragility, occasional gearbox synchromesh wear, engine oil leaks common.

Carburetor Tuning Notes:

Requires careful adjustment of idle speed, mixture, and float level for optimal performance and economy.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring harnesses can degrade over time; focus on continuity checks, fuse integrity, and switch functionality.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

FIAT (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) is one of Italy's oldest and most significant automotive manufacturers, known for producing accessible and innovative vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The Fiat 500, often referred to as the 'Nuova 500', was developed as an affordable, city-friendly car following WWII. It underwent numerous revisions, including the introduction of more powerful engines and updated styling, culminating in the 'R' (Rinnovata) model before its discontinuation.

Production Period:

1957-1975

Production Volume:

Over 3.8 million units produced across all variants.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Turin, Italy, with licensed production in other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Recognized as an icon of Italian design and a symbol of post-war economic recovery. Cult following and popular in classic car events.

Ratings:

Highly regarded for its charming aesthetics, simplicity, and economic operation.

Certifications:

Not applicable to modern certification standards.