1959 Fiat Nuova 500 Joins Australian Classic Car Auction

Some classics trade on power. Others trade on beauty. The Fiat Nuova 500 trades on something rarer—cultural gravity. And this 1959 Fiat 500 sedan, now heading to the Pickles National Classic Cars & Motoring Collectibles Online Auction, is a prime example of why early 500s have become serious collectibles rather than just cute runabouts.

Below, we dive into the history of Fiat’s motoring icon, why early Nuova-series cars like this one sit at the top of the desirability ladder, and what bidders can expect from this particular example.

Why Early Nuova 500s are the Collectors’ Pick

When Fiat launched the Nuova 500 in 1957, it wasn’t just a new model—it was a national turning point. Italy was shifting from scooters to steering wheels, and this tiny two-cylinder hatch played a starring role in the country’s economic rise. But while Fiat went on to build nearly four million 500s across various updates, collectors consistently gravitate toward the early “Nuova” series (1957–1960).

Why? Because these first-generation cars offer the model in its most authentic, minimalist and historically significant form.

What Sets the 1959 Model Apart

Compared with later “F” (1965–72) and “L” (1968–72) models, which featured improved cooling, creature comforts, and a more mainstream interior, the early Nuova cars retain:

• A purist 499cc two-cylinder engine

• Skinny bumpers and minimalist trim

• Distinctive early dash layout

• Lighter curb weight

• A more delicate, vintage feel overall

Collectors often describe the Nuova as “the 500 distilled”—everything essential, nothing superfluous. And while later models are easier to live with, the earliest cars carry more historical weight and command stronger values on the global classic-car market.

Auction trends over the past decade show early Nuova-series examples consistently drawing higher premiums than later variants—sometimes 30–50% more, depending on originality and condition. Their scarcity is also key: far fewer early-series cars survived compared with later, mass-produced F and L models.

Takeaway: In the hierarchy of Fiat 500 collectability, the 1957–60 Nuova stands at the top. This 1959 example sits squarely in that sweet spot.

The Auction Car: A Charming 1959 Example With Classic Appeal

This particular 1959 Fiat Nuova 500 sedan is finished in red with a playful red-and-white leather interior, showing 72,082 miles on the odometer. It presents as an honest, complete survivor—exactly the type of early 500 enthusiasts seek out as prices on unmodified examples continue to climb.

Specs at a Glance

• Build Year: circa 1959

• Engine: 500cc two-cylinder petrol

• Transmission: 4-speed manual

• Seats: 4

• Doors: 2

• Trim: Red/white leather

• Registration: Last registered as CLUB1791 (status TBA)

• Keys: One key (spare missing)

• Books: No service history; manuals not included

• GST: Included in the sale price

Condition Overview

The condition notes are mostly cosmetic and minor:

• Door-trim clips missing or broken on both sides

• Spare key not supplied

• Service books and owner’s manual missing

For a 65-year-old Italian microcar, this is well within the realm of “light fettling” rather than restoration.

Like any auction, we strongly recommend personal inspection and vehicle history checks.

Auction Details: When the Bidding Begins

This Nuova 500 joins a mixed catalogue of classic and collectible cars in Pickles’ national online sale.

• Auction Opens: Friday, 15 August 2025, 12:00pm AEST

• Auction Closes: Tuesday, 19 August 2025, 8:00pm AEST

• Format: Online bidding

• Vendor: Consigned via Pickles Classic & Collectibles division

With early 500 demand still rising—and supply tightening—expect strong interest from microcar collectors, Italian-car enthusiasts, and anyone chasing a historically significant entry into classic motoring.

It should be noted that there are also two 1969 Fiat 500s in the same auction, so you are spoilt for choice, although the Nouva will likely be the most sought after.

Our Take

The classic-car world has woken up to the early Fiat 500’s significance. Once a humble commuter, the Nuova 500 has transformed into a collectible with genuine pedigree—praised for its design, its cultural story, and its unmatched charm. Compared with later “F” and “L” models, this 1959 example carries more historical authenticity, more scarcity, and a more direct line back to Fiat’s post-war renaissance.

And despite its age, it’s still a car you can drive, enjoy, and share. If you’re chasing an early Fiat 500 with strong collector appeal—and the warm, nostalgic personality only the Nuova series delivers—this one is well worth a bid.