Drugstore Diecast: Kinsmart Fiat 500 Pullback Car

The original Fiat 500 is an iconic European car. It was made in Italy from 1957 to 1975 and nearly 4 million were sold. In 2007, Fiat created a modern Fiat 500 that was just recently discontinued. The original and the new version are both European cars with quirks and idiosyncrasies.  They are also pretty tiny.  They aren't as tiny as this toy version from Kinsmart.

Kinsmart Fiat 500 Pullback Car

This version is based on the original designs for the Fiat 500 from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. It's a sharp looking little racer.

Rear View of the Kinsmart Fiat 500 Pullback Car

The original Fiat 500 is an iconic European car. It was made in Italy from 1957 to 1975 and nearly 4 million were sold. In 2007, Fiat created a modern Fiat 500 that was just recently discontinued. The original and the new version are both European cars with quirks and idiosyncrasies.  They are also pretty tiny.  They aren't as tiny as this toy version from Kinsmart.

Update 2025 --

The Charm of the Original Fiat 500: Small Size, Modest Power, Mighty Efficiency

The original Fiat 500, affectionately dubbed the "Cinquecento," is a timeless icon of compact design and frugal engineering. Launched in 1957, this pint-sized Italian marvel was crafted to navigate the narrow, bustling streets of post-war Europe. Measuring just under 3 meters long and weighing around 500 kg, the Fiat 500 was a master of minimalism, offering unparalleled maneuverability in crowded cities. Its tiny footprint and tight turning radius made parking a breeze, even in the tightest spots, earning it a devoted following among urban drivers.

Don’t expect thrilling performance, though. The Fiat 500’s two-cylinder, air-cooled engine—starting at 479 cc and later upgraded to 594 cc—produced a modest 13 to 23 horsepower. Acceleration was leisurely, with 0-60 km/h taking upwards of 30 seconds, and top speeds barely touched 100 km/h (62 mph). This anemic output was no match for highways or steep hills, but it wasn’t meant to be. The 500 was built for practicality, not speed, offering just enough power to zip through city traffic with a cheeky grin.

Where the Fiat 500 shone was its fuel efficiency. Sipping just 4.5-5.5 liters per 100 km (42-52 mpg US), it was a champion of economy in an era of rising fuel costs. This efficiency, paired with its low maintenance costs, made it a favorite for budget-conscious drivers. The Cinquecento’s blend of small size, modest performance, and stellar fuel economy cemented its legacy as a practical yet charming microcar, proving that less can indeed be more.

For those craving a nostalgic, no-frills ride, the original Fiat 500 remains an enduring symbol of simplicity and efficiency.