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Davide puts the spot on Fiat 500 Custom Models - Part 11: 500 Ferves Ranger
- Year of manufacture: 1966
- Displacement: 499 cc
- Body type: Off-road car
- Derived from: Fiat 500
- Manufacturer: Ferves
- Number of cars built: ~ 600
Did you know that, besides the various one-off models, such as Coupé, Spider, “Spiaggina” (the famous “beach buggy”) etc., even a small off-road car was produced on the basis of the Fiat 500?
Yes, indeed: The little Ferves Ranger, which, although already presented at the Turin Motor Show in 1966, was not produced until spring 1967. The first version was a 4x2 with rear-wheel drive, powered by the 499 cc engine of the 500 F. The chassis was made of rectangular steel profiles, the body reminded of amphibious vehicles that, in contrast, were waterproof.
Yes, indeed: The little Ferves Ranger, which, although already presented at the Turin Motor Show in 1966, was not produced until spring 1967. The first version was a 4x2 with rear-wheel drive, powered by the 499 cc engine of the 500 F. The chassis was made of rectangular steel profiles, the body reminded of amphibious vehicles that, in contrast, were waterproof.
The body of the little 500 Ferves Ranger consisted of riveted metal sheets and a forward-tilting windscreen, while the suspension was adopted from the Fiat 600, ensuring more robustness.
This little off-road vehicle immediately aroused the curiosity of those who had to drive narrow and difficult roads in their job or during leisure time; it was not least its unique rounded and visibly robust shape that made the car a success.
This little off-road vehicle immediately aroused the curiosity of those who had to drive narrow and difficult roads in their job or during leisure time; it was not least its unique rounded and visibly robust shape that made the car a success.
In fact, a 4x4 version was presented in 1968. It had a modified gearbox and a differential designed by Ferves, along with a few more changes such as a longer wheelbase and the door hinges being first fitted at the rear, as in the D version of the Fiat 500, and then at the front, as in the F version. The 4x2, however, remained in production and was enhanced with all the improvements of the new model.
The last version, produced in 1969, was the rally version, which was equipped with various accessories, such as tubular bumpers to protect the headlights, which reminded of the new L production model, fog lights and a roll bar.
The last version, produced in 1969, was the rally version, which was equipped with various accessories, such as tubular bumpers to protect the headlights, which reminded of the new L production model, fog lights and a roll bar.
More guides by Davide about the Fiat 500 custom models, one-offs and curiosities can be found here on our website!
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