ITALY — The iconic Fiat 500, a symbol of Italian automotive design, remains a favored choice for tourists eager to explore both bustling cities and serene countryside roads.

First manufactured in Turin between 1957 and 1975, this compact vehicle was initially crafted to be an affordable and practical mode of transportation, even accommodating family needs. Decades later, its charm and historical significance continue to resonate with car enthusiasts and travelers alike.

A Fiat owner described the car as “a miracle of aesthetics,” acknowledging its occasional quirks but also its enduring appeal. Another enthusiast emphasized that the Fiat 500 represents more than just transportation—it’s a quintessential emblem of Italian heritage.

Across Italy, vintage Fiat 500s are cherished not as relics confined to museums but as beloved possessions of passionate owners. These enthusiasts, including Alexis Di Giulio, Mauro Bramante, Alvise Di Giulio, and Christine Bravi, are dedicated to preserving the legacy of this classic car by offering driving experiences to visitors, acting as guardians of its timeless allure.

“This is where the magic happens,” Alexis Di Giulio said while showing the interior of a Fiat 500. 

Drivers use the cars for city tours, often communicating by walkie-talkie as they guide visitors through narrow streets and historic landmarks.

“At the end of the tour, people drive like Romans,” one owner said. “As long as they don’t take bad habits back with them, it’s all fine.”

Drivers also offer Fiat tours through the Tuscan countryside. One owner described the experience as a chance to see vineyards and sweeping views over Florence. 

“For motorheads, that’s air. Oxygen,” the owner said.

Several Fiat owners emphasized the charm of the car, referring to it as “the oldest smiling car in the world.”

“Take a look at the other cars,” one owner said. “They’re always arrogant. Aggressive. Not this car. They’re so friendly.”

Owners said driving a Fiat 500 is both nostalgic and therapeutic. 

“It lets you feel important, like you’re in the past,” one said.