The Fiat 500, affectionately known in New Zealand as the “Bambina” was introduced in 1957 as a compact, affordable solution for post-war Europe. It followed the success of the larger Fiat 600 and was engineered to be even more accessible to the everyday driver.

Despite its tiny dimensions, the 500 was a masterpiece of packaging. Its rear-mounted air-cooled engine and minimalistic interior made it a practical and economical city car. The model became a cultural icon across Europe, loved for its quirky charm and fuel efficiency.

Production of the classic Fiat 500 ran until 1975, with nearly 3.9 million units produced. It was eventually succeeded by the Fiat 126, although the 500 remained beloved by enthusiasts worldwide.

In 2007, to mark the 50th anniversary of the original, Fiat released a modern reinterpretation of the 500. While much larger and heavier, the new model carried the spirit of the original, bringing the "Bambina" charm into the 21st century.