Giannini 500 classic car for sale

History of the Giannini 500

The Giannini 500 is an accomplished reworking of the classic Fiat 500 by the renowned Roman tuner Giannini Automobili. Building on a tradition of modifying and racing Fiats since the early 20th century, Giannini focused its technical expertise on the post-war 500 with a series of transformative upgrades. Known for their robust reinterpretations, Giannini models were produced in the firm's Rome workshops, often featuring mechanical and aesthetic tuning far exceeding factory standards. This tradition resulted in cars with unique character and increased performance, quickly attracting a cult following in the Italian motorsport and collecting scenes.

Model history and development

Giannini developed several variants of the 500 series, such as the 500 TV (Turismo Veloce), TVS (Turismo Veloce Special), TVL, and the 650 NP. The fundamental goal of these versions was to extract substantially more power and dynamism from the small Fiat platform. Modifications typically included new camshafts, valves, oil sumps, cylinder heads, and pistons, as well as adjustments to the carburettor and exhaust systems. Early models are recognized by their 8-bolt body style. Many examples are known for their originality and correct period documentation, which is actively sought by enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Highlights of the Giannini 500

Giannini’s modifications turned the basic Fiat 500 into an agile, sporting machine. Key features include highly tuned engines, often bored out to 650cc and producing up to 35 hp, and oversized Weber twin carburettors. As standard, Giannini models frequently feature sportier, lowered suspension and signature oil sumps, along with a distinctively rorty exhaust note from Monza-style systems. Interiors are equally bespoke, with sports seats (frequently two-tone leather), racy steering wheels (often wood-rimmed, e.g., Momo), dashboards with auxiliary dials marked up to 170 km/h, and frequently rare Cromodora or Abarth alloy wheels. Collectors value original badges, emblems, and registration documents, and the cars are often verified by historic registers such as ASI. Each example reflects meticulous attention to mechanical integrity and period detail.

Technical data for the Giannini 500

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Among Giannini's most collector-attractive offerings are the documented limited series, such as the Giannini 500 TV, TVS, and TVL. Some examples are uniquely identified by series numbers in official vehicle documents, and enthusiasts covet those with complete, period-original fittings. Additionally, restored units certified by registers like ASI, with original mechanicals and documentation, command particular attention. The 650 NP with its substantial engine upgrade and racing-style features also stands out as a high-performance, collectible variant.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Thanks to Giannini's extensive engine work—re-profiled camshafts, larger valves, custom pistons, and high-flow twin-choke Weber carburettors—these 500s deliver considerably more performance than the Fiat production versions. The 650cc, 35 hp engines are paired to 4-speed gearboxes (often synchronized), giving the small car a lively driving character. Special oil pans, sporty exhausts and tuned suspensions provide enthusiastic handling well above what the Fiat 500 base could deliver. Expected soundtracks include raspy Monza exhausts paired with flexible yet robust drivetrains. Many feature racing wheel and tyre combinations, further enhancing cornering agility. Highlight models: 500 TV – notable for increased power and sharp handling; 650 NP – for its standout engine; TVL and TVS – known for ultimate tuning and production quality.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Sporting individuality is central to the Giannini 500’s appeal. Interiors often feature sports seats (sometimes two-tone, or reupholstered to original specifications), original sport steering wheels—typically 3-spoke wood-rimmed varieties (e.g., classic Momo)—and revised dashboards sporting additional dials like 170 km/h speedometers and extra gauges. Restoration standards tend towards period correctness, with original badges, emblems, and logos, original instruments, and even historic radios upgraded with Bluetooth for discreet modern convenience. Exteriors can feature rare alloy wheels by Cromodora or Abarth, distinctive Carello headlights, and Altissimo rear lights. Many cars are fitted with full-length folding fabric roofs. Floor carpets and footmats are usually renewed and sometimes feature era-correct materials.

Other relevant features

Restored Giannini 500s often come with a package of spare and racing parts, such as extra carburettors, intake manifolds, steering rods, pistons, and ignition distributors. Many vehicles are thoroughly overhauled mechanically and cosmetically, with expert underbody repairs and paintwork to maintain collector value and originality. Period documentation, series numbers, and certification in registers like ASI add to authenticity. Special attention is paid to avoid replica parts, with factory-correct badges, trims and emblems preferred.

Summary

The Giannini 500 encapsulates an era of small-car enthusiasm uniquely Italian in spirit and execution. These cars epitomise the fusion of motorsport tuning with everyday usability, offering authentic mechanical upgrades, period-correct interiors, and a suite of historic details. Engineered beyond the factory Fiat original, every Giannini 500 has a character shaped by skill, passion, and a distinctive approach to small-car performance.