Fiat Cinquecento (93-98) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Cheap, neatly styled and great fun to drive. All models are inexpensive to run and the 1.1 Sporting is nippy enough for longer trips. The only downside is the flimsy and lightweight feel to the Cinquecento, which feels like it will crumple like an empty coke can in any collision. Be sure to check the condition of the bodywork and trim carefully before purchasing and do not expect wonders on the motorway. Otherwise, the Cinquecento is great around town, feels agile, and is great fun to drive.
2.5 out of 5

Other Fiat reviews

1 out of 5

Safety

The questionable safety standards of the Cinquecento were marginally improved on the follow-up Seicento, but not by much. The Cinquecento feels flimsy, even though it is fitted with side-impact protection beams. However, the brakes are reassuringly firm it has an optional driver's airbag. The VIN security etched-glass feature and immobiliser adds a little extra confidence and theft deterrence to the vehicle, but the protection aspect really lets the Cinquecento down.

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3 out of 5

Reliability

The Cinquecento is a little fragile and the frustrating niggles spoil what is a generally dependable car. The core parts of the vehicle are durable and reliable, but there is always a nagging suspicion that something minor is about to let you down. As is the case with many cars, treat the Cinquecento well and it will return the favour. As the engines work hard, oil changes are very important and regular attentive servicing is needed, so if you are looking for a low-maintenance car, which can be thrashed without retribution, the Cinquecento is not for you.

Car check problem points

Body

Parking dents, damaged bumpers, leaky sunroof.

Engine/Gearbox

Split top hose; abuse or neglect (particularly Sporting); notchy gear change.

Other

Grazed or split bumpers; damage to flimsy controls; loose or worn trim; leaky sunroof; scraped or kerbed alloy wheels on Sporting.