🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

500

Year:

1963

Chassis Code:

110

Engine Code Family:

110F

👋 Introduction

Historical Significance:

The Fiat 500 'Nuova' (New 500) is an iconic symbol of post-war Italian economic recovery and personal mobility. Introduced in 1957, the 1963 model represents a refinement of this beloved city car.

Competitors:

Competed with other small, economical city cars of the era, such as the Mini Cooper, Volkswagen Beetle (though larger), and Citroën 2CV.

Design Philosophy:

Designed for maximum interior space within a minimal footprint, prioritizing economy, simplicity, and maneuverability.

Unique Selling Points:

Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, distinctive styling, and affordability made it a popular choice for urban transport.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive service, repair, troubleshooting, and maintenance for the 1963 Fiat 500.

Page Count:

Not specified, but implied to be extensive covering all aspects.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Downloadable Format:

Provides instant access to repair information via digital download.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Complete disassembly, reassembly, repair, and tuning of the engine.

Transmission Service Repair:

Service and repair of the gearbox and clutch assembly.

Brake System:

Inspection, repair, and maintenance of hydraulic and mechanical braking components.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of all electrical components and circuits.

Wiring Diagram:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for accurate diagnosis and repair.

Suspension:

Service and repair of front and rear suspension components.

Steering:

Repair and adjustment of the steering mechanism.

Cooling System:

Maintenance and repair of the air-cooling system (for original models).

Fuel System:

Service and repair of the carburetor and fuel delivery system.

Chassis Body:

Bodywork repair, chassis maintenance, and alignment.

Restraint System:

Coverage relevant to the era, likely focused on structural integrity and basic safety features.

Axle:

Service and repair of the rear axle assembly.

Periodic Lubrication:

Detailed guide to all grease points and lubrication intervals for chassis components.

Emission System:

Covers basic emission control systems as mandated for the era, primarily focused on crankcase ventilation and exhaust.

Engine Control System:

Focuses on mechanical and electrical control of the engine, including ignition timing and carburetor settings.

General Maintenance:

Routine checks, fluid changes, lubrication, and filter replacements.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon problems.

Disassembly Reassembly:

Step-by-step instructions for taking apart and putting back together vehicle components.

Refurbishment Renovation:

Guidance for restoring and updating the vehicle's condition.

Renovation Restoration:

Guidance on bodywork, interior refurbishment, and component restoration for classic car owners.

Fixing Mending:

Practical advice for repairing common wear and tear items and mechanical faults.

Depth:

Covers basic to advanced repair procedures, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Compatibility:

Windows and Mac compatible

Print Quality:

High quality, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, two-cylinder, overhead valve (OHV)

Displacement:

479 cc (29.2 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

67 mm x 70 mm

Compression Ratio:

7.0:1 (approx.)

Horsepower:

17 hp (13 kW) at 4,000 rpm

Torque:

26 lb-ft (35 Nm) at 2,500 rpm (approx.)

Carburetor:

Weber 26 IMB (or similar single-barrel downdraft)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (requires appropriate octane for its era)

Ignition System:

Distributor-based ignition system

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual (e.g., 1st: ~3.7, 2nd: ~2.2, 3rd: ~1.4, 4th: 1.0, Reverse: ~3.9)

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90, specific fill level detailed in manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

2,970 mm (116.9 in)

Width:

1,370 mm (53.9 in)

Height:

1,305 mm (51.4 in)

Wheelbase:

1,840 mm (72.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 470-500 kg (1,036-1,102 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Not specified, but typically around 850-900 kg

Seating Capacity:

4 (2+2)

Cargo Volume:

Minimal, primarily under the front hood and behind rear seats.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

No formal crash test ratings exist for this era. Safety was primarily passive and structural.

Braking System:

Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes

Parking Brake:

Mechanical, operating on rear wheels

Seatbelts:

Optional or not standard for 1963 models; manual will detail if available.

Body Construction:

Unibody construction with integrated body and chassis elements.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM radio (optional, likely not included in all models), manual tuning.

Driver Assistance Features:

None (pre-dates modern driver assistance systems).

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually, as per manual recommendations.

Tune Up:

As needed for ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, valve clearance checks.

Lubrication:

Grease points require periodic attention, specified in the manual.

Engine Oil:

SAE 20W-50 or SAE 30 API SF/CD (check manual for exact specification based on climate and specific oil availability for classic cars).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid

Fuel Additives:

May benefit from lead substitutes or additives for older valve seats if the engine was originally designed for leaded fuel. Manual will advise.

Rust Corrosion:

Common on floor pans, wheel arches, and sills due to age and metal type. Manual will offer repair guidance.

Carburetor Issues:

Tendency for wear, dirt ingress, and maladjustment leading to rough running or poor fuel economy.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring insulation, loose connections, and corrosion can cause intermittent electrical faults.

Overheating:

Though air-cooled, improper fan belt tension or cooling shroud issues could affect heat dissipation. Manual will cover fan belt adjustment.

📚 Vehicle History

Fiat History:

Founded in Turin, Italy in 1899, Fiat (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) became a major force in European automotive manufacturing, particularly known for its small, economical cars.

500 Evolution Pre 1963:

The original Fiat 500 'Topolino' was produced from 1936-1955. The 'Nuova' 500, designed by Dante Giacosa, launched in 1957 with an air-cooled 479cc engine. Subsequent models saw engine upgrades (e.g., 499.5cc, 594cc) and minor styling tweaks.

1963 Updates:

The 1963 model year likely corresponds to refinements in the 500 D or the introduction of the 500 Giardiniera, but the core mechanicals from the 500 D (using the 479cc engine) would be consistent. Engine power might have seen minor increases through tuning refinements.

Production Period:

1957-1975 (for the 'Nuova' 500 series)

Manufacturing Location:

Turin, Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Iconic Status:

Widely recognized as a design icon and a symbol of Italian automotive history.

Collectible Value:

Highly collectible and sought after by enthusiasts worldwide.