Engine and chassis
For use in urban traffic is already enough of the 1.2-liter entry-level petrol engine with 51 kW/69 HP. Since this is a four-cylinder, the noise level is acceptable in a convertible. Who has higher performance requirements, can choose between two 1.4-liter petrol engines with 74 kW/100 hp and 99 kW/135 hp, which are the same but more expensive. The alternative offered 1.3-liter diesel with 70 kW/95 hp would usually come from the grueling application as a service or courier vehicles and should therefore be treated with caution. If you really want to be as efficient as possible on the way, should rather be looking for the end of 2010 introduced 0.9-liter two-cylinder gasoline engine with 63 kW/85 hp. The offer is still low.
The chassis itself is hoppelig and stuckerig. That is not even in a small car to be the case, shows the Ford Ka, which is built on the same basis as the Fiat, but has upgraded the suspension technology. In addition, the annoying large turning circle of 500, which is almost twelve feet. When it comes to longevity can not convince the technology. The TÜV complains a high defect rate on the front axle and steering - and this even at the first three years after HU. In addition, damage to wheel bearings are among the known issues.
The Fiat 500 Car of the Year in 2008 - not least because the jury was persuaded by the great safety features of the small cars. Five stars in the EuroNCAP crash test, and seven airbags are standard equipment for a small car quite respectable. Not all will go great with it, that the stability control only for the 1.4-liter petrol engine was available. The rest of the equipment on the other hand is fine, even the basic version of "Pop" offers up everything you need on the air conditioning.
Quality
Charmer and a pretty boy is often accused of lack of solidity. And the Fiat 500 could not deny such comments completely. In addition to the chassis as the alternator is considered vulnerable, and the exhaust system is not a paragon of durability. Known issue is also a tendency to piston seizure. When buying a used car is therefore made to the regular oil changes must be ensured.
Conclusion
The cute Fiat 500, one may see one or the other weakness. Too large but the tolerance should not be, since the micro-car is also sold as Used are to be fairly high prices. From $22,000 up should be invested for at least the closed version, preferably in a well-kept specimen with low mileage.
