Fiat’s Topolino enjoyed an impressive run, with over 500,000 units manufactured between 1937 and 1955. Upon its debut, it stood as one of the world’s smallest cars, a two-passenger coupe equipped with a 569cc four-cylinder engine and a four-speed gearbox.
Initially named the “500” officially, it swiftly acquired the moniker Topolino, meaning “little mouse” in Italian. This name was inspired by its headlamps positioned on the front fenders, resembling the ears of a mouse, and was often associated with the beloved character Mickey Mouse.
During the Mille Miglia race, a group of 32 Topolinos participated, with the fastest one achieving an average speed of nearly 50 mph. The immense popularity of the Topolino contributed significantly to Fiat’s production reaching a new record in 1937, with approximately 84,000 units produced before Italy’s entry into World War II.
Source: Bonhams
