FIAT Introduces New Fiat 500 1957 Edition Cabrio

If somebody suggested that an entire auto brand would effectively be variations of one model, it’s unlikely anyone would give it a chance. However, Fiat has shown that it can be done with almost endless versions of its popular 500. If you are a fan of the Fiat 500, you’re already faced with an outstanding array of models to choose from. But the Italian automaker is showing no signs of letting up when it comes to making the most of the 500, with a cabrio version of the 1957 Edition being the most recent addition to the lineup.

The 500 is renowned as much for its fun driving experience as it is for its cute and funky styling, and the 1957 Edition cabrio stays true to those principals. Rather than being a conventional convertible that compromises driving and handling characteristics through a lack of inherent rigidity, the 500 takes a slightly different approach. That approach is to adopt premium dual-layer power-operated cloth top, that’s designed to deliver all-season driving pleasure with the top up or down and without the unpleasant "scuttle-shake" of conventional convertibles.

At the heart of the 1957 Edition is the innovative 1.4-liter MultiAir engine and five-speed manual transmission combination, which delivers an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. With a starting MSRP for this well-equipped limited-production model of just $24,700, the 1957 Edition is just $1,900 more than the base Fiat 500c Lounge.

Jason Stoicevich, the Head of the FIAT Brand for North America, said of the new model, "We continue to expand the FIAT lineup. 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."

The cloth top of the 1957 Edition really is an innovative and practical design, which is power-operated and retracts at the push of a button up to the rear spoiler. While the highest speeds most conventional soft tops can retract at are around the 30 mph mark, the 500’s roof can be retracted at up to a best-in-class 60 mph. What’s more, a midway point for the roof can be chosen by pressing the button anytime between open and closed. Then, by pressing the button again, the roof will fold all the way open and tuck neatly behind the rear head restraints.

It may be hard to believe that a retractable soft top could include even more features and technology, but this is no ordinary retractable roof. For even more practicality, it automatically retracts back to the rear-spoiler position to avoid any obstruction when the liftgate is opened for accessing the trunk.

Both the hatchback and the cabrio versions of the Fiat 500 1957 Edition are available now in Bianco (white), Verde Chiaro (light green) and Celeste (celestial blue) exterior colors, with a premium Marrone (brown) and Avorio (ivory) leather interior. All models also come with a sport-tuned suspension for even better handling, and 16-inch forged aluminum wheels.

McKevitt FIAT, located in Berkeley, sells & services FIAT cars throughout the entire Bay area. This includes San Francisco, Marin, Oakland and Alameda. If you are searching for FIAT dealers in San Francisco using the keywords San Francisco new FIAT dealership or San Francisco FIAT dealers, call or stop by us for a test drive today!