1968 | Fiat 500 Jolly Ghia Recreation

HISTORY When the jet-setters of the 1960s partied on sandy beaches around the world, they were most often not seen in their cars or Maseratis, but behind the wheel of a Fiat Jolly. The Jolly, based on the reliable mechanics of Italy's 'people's car', the 500, featured a body similar to that of a dune buggy made by Ghia of Turin, with open sides, a simple soft top and wicker seats that would have looked good at an English garden party. It was often finished in bright, glossy colours, making it the perfect match for a swimming costume or yacht club flag. Jollys were all the rage on the streets of resort towns and, if you were really a member of the jet-set, you carried one on the deck of your yacht as a tender. OUR CAR The Jolly Recreation we offer here has undergone a meticulous body restoration, which included stripping the body down to bare metal and repairing or fabricating new body panels as necessary.

An anti-corrosion epoxy was meticulously applied to the entire bodywork, both inside and out, before the final factory colour, aquamarine blue, was applied. Every single piece of chrome was replaced, all aluminium was straightened and polished, all seals and rubber seals were renewed and new emblems were installed. Other cosmetic work was just as meticulous, such as the seats restored by stripping, repairing and painting. The engine was professionally rebuilt and complemented by a completely renewed braking system and fuel system, which included acid-washing and coating the petrol tank. All auxiliary engine components were replaced or rebuilt; the transmission was opened and inspected, with all fluids replaced; a new exhaust system was installed. The clutch was rebuilt, as was the steering and suspension. In recent years, the Jolly's popularity has gained ground and they are now much sought after by collectors, but the prices of the originals are extremely high and limited availability makes things more difficult. This Fiat 500 Jolly Recreation will be proud in any collection and will be loved by all family members and guests. We offer these cars in different colour combinations, so please contact us for more information. Available from Veloce Classic Italia Srl. Price On Request