FIAT 500 F/Berlina 1965-1972 Photos, engines & full specs

Fiat 500 was a huge success, and the Italian carmaker constantly improved the car. In 1965 it introduced the F/Berlina version.

The rear-hinged doors started to be phased out by the carmakers due to safety reasons. Fiat followed that trend for its entire lineup, and it was the time for the 500 model to be changed. But the carmaker couldn't do that overnight and started to introduce them on facelifted versions such as the F/Berlina.

Fiat introduced the 500 F in 1965, and it represented a middle trim level for the small-segment Italian vehicle. Its lifespan spread across the 500 D (the last version with suicide-doors) and the L (Lusso – Luxury). It looked almost identical to the rest of the range, and it was available either with a solid roof or canvas top. A 500 F might be recognized by its round, orange, turn-signals mounted on the front fenders, similar to those from the D-version and, unlike the F-version, it sported a single front-bumper design.

Inside, there was the same minimalist design concept as on the 500 F. It featured vinyl (leatherette) seats and padded door panels. The metallic, trapezoidal instrument cluster sported a speedometer and a few warning lights for fuel, charging, and oil pressure. Unlike the rest of the range, it was fitted with a new steering wheel with two metallic spokes.

Under the hood, the 500 D carried over a de-tuned version of the 500 cc engine from the 500 Sport. Its power was reduced to 18 hp from 21 hp to increase the fuel-efficiency.