TGR Staff - 11/22/2009Every once in a while, something pops up on eBay that makes you do a double-take, and this time it’s a jaw-dropping, bizarre piece of automotive history—a Fiat 500 Limo. Yes, you read that right—a limousine version of the tiny, beloved Italian classic. This quirky custom car is the kind of find that could either be a show-stopper at car meets or a curious conversation piece for anyone looking to add a truly unique vehicle to their collection.
So, why does this stretch 500 caught our eye? Well, for starters, it’s just so wonderfully odd! The thought of taking the minuscule Fiat 500—known for its small footprint, minimalist style, and urban practicality—and turning it into a limo is something you wouldn’t dream up in a million years. But someone did, and now it’s up for grabs on eBay. With the reintroduction of Fiat to the American market, this unique 500 might just become a hot commodity. Who knows? With a little TLC, this relic could be the next big hit at car shows or even a star in local parades.
A Car with a Story (and Potential)
This particular Fiat 500 Limo was modified more than 30 years ago by a limousine company in San Diego, California, adding to its mystique. Though the car’s history is murky—the current seller mentions it came into their possession through a lien sale—it’s clearly got a tale or two to tell. Imagine the looks it must have gotten cruising around SoCal back in the day. A pint-sized limo scooting through La Jolla or parked outside a Hollywood club—it’s a scene straight out of a retro movie.
The ad mentions that the car’s engine is missing only an air filter, so for a savvy Fiat enthusiast or anyone handy with a wrench, it might not be too difficult to get it back up and running. With a relatively low reserve price, this could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of oddball automotive history. Whether you want to restore it to its former glory, create a wild custom, or just have it as a static showpiece, the possibilities are endless.
What We’d Change
While the overall concept is pretty cool, we have to talk about the elephant in the room—literally. The tacky Rolls-Royce-style grille. If it were ours, that would be the first thing to go. The Rolls grille feels completely out of place on such a petite car, and frankly, it distracts from the otherwise charming look of the stretched Fiat. Ditching the faux luxury front end in favor of a more period-correct Fiat fascia would immediately improve its appeal and make it feel more like a true classic.
Should You Go for It?
If you’ve got room in your garage and a taste for the unusual, this is definitely a car to consider. The odds of finding another Fiat 500 Limo are almost zero, making it a true conversation starter. And as the Fiat 500 gains more popularity in the U.S., owning a one-off like this could end up being a smart investment. If you’re in the mood for a project that’s as fun as it is rare, check out item number: 170409777080 on eBay before it disappears. Don’t say we didn’t warn you—someone’s bound to scoop it up!
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