Like every vehicle, the classic Fiat 500 has it's own typical weaknesses, especially as regards the body. As with other cars featuring a unitized (=monocoque) body, damage can only be remedied with extensive refurbishment.
This means: before purchasing, take the time for an extensive body check!
Especially the following should be examined for corrosion:
Floor panel driver's sideFloor panel passenger side, right rear seat railFloor panel in the seat rail areaFloor panel at fold to door sillFloor panel front left around lifting platform support 1Floor panel front left around lifting platform support 2
Pedal panel
Pedal kick panel should not be rusty, if the paint is coming off or traces of repair are found, be especially careful! These panels are where the swivel bearing block swivel bearing block and steering box are mounted.
Left sill centerLeft sill rearPassenger door rear bottom corner + sillFloor panel at sill transition with lifting platform supportFront panel left under bumperQuarter panel rear left next to bumperFront wheel archRear wheel archOuter body
Sun roof
Examine the sun-roof for ruptures. Sun roof frame - Corrosion is present mostly when the frame front / top can feel for lumps or irregularities.
A-, B- and C-pillar (possible side damage); A-pillar around door mount; C-pillar at the crossing point of the rear side panels to the roof (possible rear end or side damage, possibly poor repair work)
B-pillar driver's side with fastening beltC-pillar transition roof-side panel rightC-pillar transition roof-side panel leftA-pillar around door mount
Note: Of course, the current state of many Fiat 500 is very different. It may be out of a defect which was not covered here. The above statement is thus not exhaustive!!
