The Fiat 500 first came on sale in 1957, when economic vehicles were on high demand. It embodied the spirit of the day and many other car companies rushed to follow the example by producing tiny city cars. When Fiat stopped building the 500 in 1975, there had been around 3.6 million units of the "cinquecento” built - and one of the great success stories in automobile history had been written.

With the re-launch of the model in 2007, Fiat is now trying to revive the success of this classic model in a new millenium. And while also today many can't resist the charm of this little runabout, we are wondering: Can the new model convince in direct comparison to the original?

Let's take a closer look:

Fiat New 500 Standard 1957 31 cu in 15 hp @ 4400 rpm 56 mph

Fiat 500 1.4 Lounge S/S 2007 83 cu in 99 hp @ 6000 rpm 113 mph 10.68s

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Comparing the two generations - exactly 50 years apart - the most striking difference is really in the performance department, while Fiat has actually been quite true to the original design. Conclusion: the new model can score some points with an additional 84 hp and added driving fun as well as an accomplished redesign that is true to its roots while absolutely contemporary. So what about the classic? A meager 15hp? But well ... it is simply the original, its cuteness and nostalgia will always remain unaccomplished...we think.

But that's not where the story ends. Fiat has not only redesigned the 500 but has also rebranded the model from an economy car into a lifestyle choice. And with its popularity, Fiat has begun to expand the line-up to convertible and estate versions, the latest addition to the Fiat 500 family being the 500L. While most of us just think of a small 2-door odd-ball when thinking of the classic model, Fiat produced indeed a variety of versions until 1977, that inspire the new models today.

Take a look at the gallery below and tell us which one you do you prefer, the old or the new?

Fiat 500 Standard - 1957

The Fiat 500 first came on sale in 1957, and was powered by air-cooled rear-mounted engines, with displacements of 479 cc, 499 cc or 594 cc. Power outputs ranged from the early 13 hp engines to the later 23 hp units, allowing the strongest 500 to reach its top speed at 60 mi/h (97 km/h). The Fiat 500 was rear-wheel driven and its transmission a 4-speed manual unit.

Fiat 500 - 2007

In 2007, Fiat introduced the modern 500. The design is heavily based on the classic model, but the car comes with modern technology and endless individualization options. While the original Fiat was a truly economic car, the spirit of the new 500 is quite a bit different. It has become a "lifestyle" car for young city dwellers. Economy in this model refers more to small space and fuel efficiency.

Fiat 500 foldable roof - 1957

Throughout its 18-year lifespan, the Fiat 500 was produced in 6 different versions: Nuova, D, Giardiniera, Berlina, Lusso and Rinnovata. But already the standard model in 1957 came with a folding roof and was in that sense a convertible. Today that is not the case. The new Fiat 500 is produced as a hardtop and only the 500C is equipped with a removable top.

Fiat 500C - 2008

Two years after launching the modern 500 as hardtop, Fiat added a 500C convertible variant which is slightly more costly than the standard car. The Italian brand also invited global fashion brands such as Diesel and Gucci to design special editions of the new model, enhancing its status as a lifestyle choice with endless options versus the idea of the original, minimalist economy car.

Abarth 500/595 - 1960

For the more ambitious drivers, sports versions of the 500 were offered by Fiat's house-tuner Abarth. Displacement was modified to 594cc and made the car go at a top speed of 120 km/h. And also today, Fiat can count on the support of the Abarth engineers to come up with variants that make the petrolheads drool...

Abarth 500 - 2007

The 500 Abarth performance model premiered at the Geneva Motor Show 2007. With its 1.4 turbocharged engine, an output of 135 hp at 5500 rpm and 180 Nm and its sport suspension, this one leaves the 1960s Abarths breathless behind - no doubt!

Fiat 500 Giardiniera - 1960

In 1960, the Italians added a larger 500 Giardiniera, or station wagon, variant to the 500 portfolio. This move made the car significantly more functional for families and professionals, as the standard version could so far only seat two passengers. More seating and loading space seemed to be a convincing argument for customers, and the Giardiniera remained in production longer than any other 500: until 1977.

Fiat 500L - 2012

Just as the Giardiniera in 1960, so does the 500L in 2012 introduce a more functional twist to the popular mini car. Although the modern 500 already seats four passengers, families would outgrow it as soon as they try to go on a weekend trip. The 500L combines elements of the MPV, SUV and compact segments and appears a giant when compared to its ancestor. Will it repeat its success?

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