The Fiat 500 has earned more than its share of plaudits for its eye-catching design.
The car is instantly recognizable and has certain curb appeal long absent from workaday sedans. But even Fiat Chrysler Automobile diehards admit privately that the 500 is probably too small for the typical American consumer, who wants more room and more power.
But the car’s diminutive size hasn’t stopped marketing experts at FCA US from making a valiant effort to sell new and different versions of the 500 to American customers. The latest version, which is making its debut in time for spring and summer when the interest in top-down driving peaks, is the new 1957 Edition Cabrio with its soft top.
The Fiat 500c 1957 Edition features a premium dual-layer power-operated cloth top – a contemporary version of the canvas roof found on the original Cinquecento – which is designed to deliver all-season driving pleasure with the top up or down.
“We continue to expand the Fiat line-up,” said Jason Stoicevich, head of Fiat Brand for North America. “The Fiat 500 1957 Edition celebrates the spirit of the original 1957 Nuova 500, and with the arrival of a cabrio version, we are adding open-air fun to the iconic Italian-designed Fiat 500 1957 Edition.”
Pricing for the well-equipped, limited-production model starts at $24,700, just $1,900 more than a base Fiat 500c Lounge. The Fiat 500c 1957 Edition is available for orders now and will arrive at studios this spring.
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With just the push of a button, the Fiat 500c 1957 Edition’s power-operated cloth top retracts back to the rear spoiler during speeds up to a best-in-class 60 mph (a midway point may be chosen by pressing the button anytime between). Press the roof button again, and the roof will neatly fold all the way open and tuck neatly behind the rear head restraints at speeds up to 50 mph.
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The power cloth top offers even more technology. When the liftgate is opened for trunk access, the power-operated cloth top automatically retracts back to the rear-spoiler position to avoid any obstruction.
(To see more about FCA’s expectations for the 500X, Click Here.)
Now available as either a hatchback or a cabrio, the 2015 Fiat 500 1957 Edition also comes with a sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch forged aluminum wheels with a retro body-color design, throwback “FIAT” badging and a premium Marrone and Avorio or Ivory leather interior. The model is available in three classic exterior colors, including white, light green and exclusive celestial blue.
Ha! The 1951 Nash Rambler Airflyte convertable has returned!
You can buy a real car for $25K.