Generation:
First Generation (Nuova 500)
Production Years Covered:
1957-1973
Chassis Code Range:
110F, 110D, 110F/110D, 120, 130, 210, 220, 230
Historical Significance:
Iconic Italian microcar, symbol of post-war mobility and European economic boom.
Competitors Of The Era:
Volkswagen Beetle, Citroën 2CV, Mini (though the 500 had a unique niche).
Design Philosophy:
Compact, economical, rear-engined, air-cooled, simple and robust engineering.
Target Audience:
FIAT 500 owners, enthusiasts, mechanics, restorers, collectors.
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily European markets)
Manual Scope:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific number not provided, typical for detailed workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Repair Manual
Primary Language:
English (implied by product description)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF implied)
Engine:
Engine mechanicals, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox (manual), final drive, differentials
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, front and rear drum brakes, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (transverse leaf spring), steering gear, steering column
Electrical:
Battery, starter motor, alternator/generator, lighting system, instrumentation, wiring diagrams
Bodywork Chassis:
Chassis construction, body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, bumpers
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, lubrication points, general tune-ups
Repair:
Engine overhaul, gearbox repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component troubleshooting and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, fault finding for engine and electrical systems
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Level Of Detail:
Detailed, suitable for both amateur mechanics and professionals
Visual Aids:
Diagrams, illustrations, and potentially photographic references (as stated in description)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, overhead valve (OHV), two-cylinder, boxer layout (later models).
Engine Displacement Early:
479 cc (early models like Nuova 500)
Engine Displacement Later:
499.5 cc, 594 cc (e.g., 500 D, 500 F, 500 L, 500 R, 126-based engines later in production).
Horsepower Early:
Approximately 13-15 hp
Horsepower Later:
Approximately 18-25 hp (depending on engine variant)
Carburetor Type:
Single barrel downdraft carburetor (e.g., Solex, Weber).
Engine Codes:
Various codes exist across different models and years (e.g., 110.000, 110.002, 110.004, 100.004, 126A.000).
Transmission Type Early:
4-speed manual, unsynchronized (early models).
Transmission Type Later:
4-speed manual, synchronized (most models from 500 D onwards).
Automatic Transmission:
Not available on standard 500 models; some later derivatives or custom builds might exist.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by model and are detailed in the manual.
Gearbox Oil:
Typically SAE 90 GL-4 gear oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 90, or equivalent).
Length:
Approximately 2970 mm (116.9 in)
Width:
Approximately 1320 mm (52.0 in)
Height:
Approximately 1275 mm (50.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 400-500 kg (880-1100 lbs) depending on model and equipment.
Payload Capacity:
Limited, typically designed for 2 adults plus minimal luggage.
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Modern crash safety standards were not applied to vehicles of this era).
Braking System Type:
Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels.
Seatbelts:
Not standard on early models; often retrofitted. Lap belts typically.
Chassis Construction:
Monocoque construction offering a degree of structural integrity for its time.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 km (2,000 - 3,000 miles) or annually.
Tune Up Interval:
Regular checks of ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, valve clearances, typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 - 3.0 liters (depending on engine variant).
Engine Oil Type:
Typically SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-40 API SG or higher, mineral-based oil. (Specific API ratings may vary based on original Fiat recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Air-cooled engine, no coolant required.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid.
Rust And Corrosion:
Prone to rust, especially around wheel arches, sills, floor pans, and battery tray due to age and original materials.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common due to aged seals and gaskets.
Carburetor Tuning:
Requires regular adjustment for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Synchromesh Wear:
Unsynchronized gearboxes can be challenging; synchronized gearboxes may develop synchro wear.
Maintenance Schedule Details
Ignition System:
Points and condenser require periodic inspection and replacement. Spark plugs need checking and gap adjustment.
Chassis Lubrication:
Grease points on suspension and steering components require regular lubrication.
Fiat Origins:
Founded in 1899, Fiat (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) is one of Italy's oldest and largest automobile manufacturers.
Nuova 500 Introduction:
Introduced in 1957 as a successor to the original Fiat 500 'Topolino', designed by Dante Giacosa.
Variants:
Evolved through numerous versions: 500, 500 D, 500 Berlina, 500 F (Fanalone), 500 L (Lusso), 500 R (Rinnovata), and various derivatives like the Giardiniera (station wagon) and Abarth performance versions.
Production Locations:
Primarily Turin, Italy; also produced under license in other countries.
Total Production Numbers:
Over 4 million units produced across all variants.
Cultural Impact:
Widely regarded as a design icon and a symbol of the Dolce Vita lifestyle.
Classic Car Value:
Highly collectible classic car, with values varying based on condition and rarity of specific models.
Original Manufacturer Certification:
This manual serves as the definitive technical reference from the manufacturer.
