The Fiat 500 'Topolino' was built by Fiat between 1936 and 1955. The name 'Topolino' means 'little mouse' in Italian, but is also the Italian name for 'Mickey Mouse'. Like 'Beetle' and 'Duck', 'Topolino' is not the official name of the model, but a nickname that sticks and that enthusiasts always use for this cuddly little Italian. The Topolino was one of the smallest cars in the world when it was launched in 1937. Three models were produced until 1955, with only minor mechanical and cosmetic changes between them. The model was equipped with a matching 569 cc four-cylinder, water-cooled engine mounted at the front. The radiator was placed behind the engine, which allowed for a lowered aerodynamic nose. Something that stood in contrast to the flat, almost vertical grilles of its competitors. The shape of the front of the car provided an exceptionally good view to the front. With a power of approximately 13 HP, the top speed of the Fiat Topolino was approximately 85 km/h. Shortly after the introduction of the B, the C model also came onto the market in 1949. The engine retained its 16 HP, but the bodywork was thoroughly revised. The front was completely overhauled, with the headlight units integrated into the much more robust mudguards. The vertical, shield-shaped grille made way for a horizontally oriented one. At the rear, the interventions were less noticeable, but at least as large. The longer rear end provided more space and also resulted in a different, slightly less squat shape.
Dutch documentation