This miniature of the Fiat Cinquecento by Burago accurately captures the essence of this iconic Italian city car from the 1990s. Reproduced with remarkable attention to detail, this green version perfectly illustrates the jovial and accessible spirit that made this small urban vehicle a success.
A true collector's item, this miniature reflects the importance of the Cinquecento in modern automotive history, representing Fiat's evolution toward a more democratic and eco-friendly urban mobility.
Features of the miniature
- Model: Cinquecento
- Brand: Fiat
- Year: 1991-1998
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Green
- Manufacturer: Burago
- Protective case included: Yes
The real model: an urban revolution
Launched in 1991, the Fiat Cinquecento entered the European market with the ambition to democratize urban mobility. Developed to succeed the venerable 126, this small 3.22-meter city car perfectly embodies the Italian philosophy of functional and elegant design.
Equipped with engines ranging from 704 cc to 1.1 liters, the Cinquecento prioritizes fuel economy and ease of driving in the city. Its lightweight chassis and precise steering make it an ideal companion for navigating the narrow streets of historic Italian centers.
The commercial success was immediate: over 1.2 million units were produced by 1998, confirming Fiat's intuition to offer a modern alternative to traditional city cars while keeping a competitive price.
Fiat in the 1990s
At the time of the Cinquecento's launch, Fiat was undergoing a period of renewal under the leadership of Cesare Romiti. The Turin-based manufacturer focused on technological innovation and design to regain European markets, particularly in the small car segment.
Founded in 1899 by Giovanni Agnelli, Fiat has always adapted to societal changes. In the 1990s, the red logo brand anticipated emerging environmental concerns and new urban lifestyles, positioning the Cinquecento as a laboratory for these new mobilities. This strategy aligns with Fiat's tradition of democratizing the automobile, which began in the 1930s with the legendary 500 Topolino.
A star on the big screen
The Fiat Cinquecento enjoyed an unexpected second career in cinema, becoming one of the most photographed vehicles of the 1990s. Its distinctive silhouette and bright colors made it a favorite among European directors seeking to illustrate urban modernity.
Even more surprisingly, this small city car became a symbol of freedom for an entire generation of young Europeans. Its ease of driving and affordable price made it the first vehicle for many drivers, creating a strong emotional bond that persists to this day.
In Italy, the Cinquecento even inspired a popular expression: "fare la cinquecento" (to do the cinquecento), which refers to the art of skillfully weaving through urban traffic, reflecting its perfect integration into Mediterranean automotive culture.
This cultural popularity partly explains why miniature versions of the Cinquecento, like this green model from Burago, retain a strong nostalgic value for collectors, evoking a time when automobiles were synonymous with carefree exploration.
Complete your miniature collection
This Fiat Cinquecento Burago naturally fits alongside other iconic Fiat miniatures, creating a fascinating chronological journey of Italian design evolution. It interacts perfectly with other Burago creations, renowned for their fidelity to original models.
Automobile enthusiasts passionate about 1990s cars will find an authentic witness of this transitional decade, where the European automotive industry redefined the codes of urban mobility. This miniature also fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to European cars, illustrating the creative richness of the Old Continent.
Whether you are a fan of 1/43 scale miniatures or a collector specializing in historic city cars, this green Cinquecento represents a valuable testimony of an era when technological optimism coexisted with ease of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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