A charming and nostalgic car, the Fiat 500 has struck a chord with European Car of the Year 2008 Judges. It's described as a car of classless appeal in the tradition of Fiat automobiles- and it's won out against the Mazda 2 by some 60 points. The next closest machine was behind by well over 100 points, as voted by a panel of journalists from all over Europe.
The 500 is a practical city-car, and it combines retro looks, fun-to-drive qualities and economical operation into a single package. It comes in a three-door hatch configuration and boasts a funky interior featuring a compact instrument cluster, brown leather surfaces and metallic accenting.
Apparently, the 500 caused quite a stir before it even went on sale- possibly because of styling which came from half a century ago. The Fiat 500 also boasts a lineup of quiet and efficient engines which drive the front wheels. A gasoline 1.2 litre mill is standard, with 60 horsepower. Fiat 500 Buyers can opt for a 1.4 litre with 100 horsepower or 1.3 litre, 75 horsepower diesel engine.
The European car of the year is voted on by a panel of journalists from several publications in various European countries. The sponsoring magazines meet several times a year, and take turns in gathering final votes and holding prize-giving ceremonies.
Canadian journalists assembled earlier this month for 2008 Car of the Year evaluations, though the winning vehicle won't be announced until February.
photo:Fiat
The 500 is a practical city-car, and it combines retro looks, fun-to-drive qualities and economical operation into a single package. It comes in a three-door hatch configuration and boasts a funky interior featuring a compact instrument cluster, brown leather surfaces and metallic accenting.
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Apparently, the 500 caused quite a stir before it even went on sale- possibly because of styling which came from half a century ago. The Fiat 500 also boasts a lineup of quiet and efficient engines which drive the front wheels. A gasoline 1.2 litre mill is standard, with 60 horsepower. Fiat 500 Buyers can opt for a 1.4 litre with 100 horsepower or 1.3 litre, 75 horsepower diesel engine.
The European car of the year is voted on by a panel of journalists from several publications in various European countries. The sponsoring magazines meet several times a year, and take turns in gathering final votes and holding prize-giving ceremonies.
Canadian journalists assembled earlier this month for 2008 Car of the Year evaluations, though the winning vehicle won't be announced until February.
photo:Fiat