In a world where most cars followed the same general design principles, the 1961 Fiat 600 Multipla was a bold deviation. An icon of unconventional design, the Fiat 600 Multipla’s quirky appearance and innovative features defied expectations. This unique vehicle challenged the traditional notion of a compact car, blending practicality with an unmistakable flair. Launched at the Brussels Motor Show in 1956, the Fiat 600 Multipla would go on to become one of the most eccentric and memorable cars of its time, gaining a special place in automotive history. But what made the 600 Multipla so unique? And why does it continue to captivate car enthusiasts today?

The Birth of the Fiat 600

To understand the Fiat 600 Multipla, it’s important to first look at its predecessor, the Fiat 600. Introduced in 1955, the Fiat 600 was a game-changer for Italy’s automotive industry. As the country’s first truly affordable mass-produced car, it played a vital role in making car ownership attainable for the average Italian family. With a rear-mounted engine, compact dimensions, and a price point that was within reach for many, the Fiat 600 became a national symbol of mobility and independence.

The success of the Fiat 600 paved the way for an evolution in the car’s design, leading to the introduction of the Fiat 600 Multipla. Fiat’s decision to extend the cabin and create a more spacious, functional version of the 600 was ambitious. This wasn’t just a typical modification; it was a reimagining of the car, designed to meet the growing need for versatile transportation. And in doing so, Fiat introduced an entirely new concept—the multipurpose car.

Video

Check out the video for a drive in the Fiat 600 Multipla, a classic and unique piece of automotive history.

The 600 Multipla: A Bold Leap in Design

The Fiat 600 Multipla was introduced at the 1956 Brussels Motor Show with a design that immediately caught the public’s attention. While the 600 was a compact sedan, the Multipla took a completely different approach. By extending the cabin to occupy the entire front of the car, Fiat created a radically different look. The front of the car, rather than sloping like most sedans, was almost vertical, giving the car a unique “backward” appearance. The rear of the car, by contrast, was streamlined and aerodynamic, reminiscent of a minivan—a precursor to the minivan design that would dominate the automotive world decades later.

The 600 Multipla wasn’t just about visual appeal; it was also about functionality. Fiat’s design allowed the car to accommodate up to six passengers. Unlike the typical two-door, two-seater configurations of the era, the Multipla featured three rows of seats, making it an ideal vehicle for families or those who needed more capacity without sacrificing the compact size that had made the Fiat 600 so popular. This made the 600 Multipla an incredibly practical solution for Italy’s growing demand for affordable, versatile transportation.

Unconventional Design: What Set the 600 Multipla Apart

What truly set the Fiat 600 Multipla apart was its ability to turn conventional car design on its head. While most cars of its time used the front of the vehicle for storage and the rear for the engine, the Multipla reversed this logic. The front-end was almost entirely vertical, giving it an unusual appearance, while the streamlined rear held the engine, continuing the Fiat 600’s rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration.

This design choice was unconventional, but it served a clear purpose: to maximize the interior space without making the car any larger. The result was a compact, multi-functional vehicle that felt surprisingly spacious for its size. With a rear engine and rear-wheel drive, the Fiat 600 Multipla was also agile and easy to maneuver, making it well-suited for both city driving and longer road trips.

Another key feature of the 600 Multipla was its versatility. Unlike most cars that were designed for specific purposes, the Multipla could easily serve as a family car, a taxi, or even a small commercial vehicle. Its design was built for practicality, with a unique cabin layout that could comfortably accommodate a large number of passengers.

Inside the Fiat 600 Multipla: Comfort and Functionality

Step inside the Fiat 600 Multipla, and you’ll immediately notice its clever use of space. The car featured three rows of seats—two in the front and one in the rear—which allowed it to accommodate up to six passengers. The design was remarkably efficient, with the seats arranged to maximize legroom while still maintaining a compact footprint.

The front of the car was a two-seater bench, replacing the bonnet and giving the car its unmistakable look. The simplicity of the interior complemented the exterior, with a straightforward dashboard and controls that focused on functionality over luxury. However, despite the utilitarian design, the 600 Multipla offered a comfortable ride, particularly for its time. The compact dimensions made it easy to maneuver, and its relatively lightweight body meant that the car was nimble and responsive, ideal for navigating narrow Italian streets.

Performance: Rear Engine and Rear-Wheel Drive in Action

While the Fiat 600 Multipla was never meant to be a high-performance vehicle, its rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to an enjoyable and practical driving experience. The 600 Multipla shared many of its mechanical components with the Fiat 600 sedan, but with the addition of more space and the ability to carry more passengers.

The engine, a 747cc rear-mounted four-cylinder, was modest by today’s standards but provided enough power to drive the vehicle efficiently. The car’s rear engine gave it excellent traction on the road, which made it more stable and agile compared to front-engine vehicles. This made the 600 Multipla a popular choice for both city driving and rural road trips.

Although the Fiat 600 Multipla wasn’t known for speed, it made up for it with its practicality and ease of use. Its simple design allowed for easy repairs and maintenance, making it a dependable car for families and businesses alike.

Legacy of the Fiat 600 Multipla

The Fiat 600 Multipla’s legacy is an interesting one. Despite its unusual appearance, the car found a dedicated following, especially in Italy. While it was never produced in large numbers compared to other cars of its time, its unique design and practicality made it a beloved vehicle. The Multipla offered a glimpse into the future of compact, multipurpose vehicles, and its influence can still be seen in modern cars today.

The car’s unusual design has also made it a cult favorite among car enthusiasts. Today, the Fiat 600 Multipla is a highly sought-after classic car, with collectors valuing its quirky design and historical significance. Though it may not have been the fastest or most luxurious vehicle of its time, the 600 Multipla’s ingenuity and versatility have earned it a lasting place in the annals of automotive history.

Video

Watch the video to learn about the Fiat Multipla, a quirky and often considered ugly family car with a unique design.

Conclusion: The Fiat 600 Multipla – A Car Ahead of Its Time

The Fiat 600 Multipla is a prime example of automotive ingenuity. With its unusual design, practical features, and innovative use of space, it remains one of the most unique vehicles ever produced. The car may not have fit the conventional mold of its time, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. As a testament to Fiat’s vision and commitment to making cars more accessible and practical for the masses, the 600 Multipla has earned its place as a quirky icon in automotive history. Today, it continues to capture the imagination of classic car enthusiasts and remains a reminder of the creative potential that exists in the world of automotive design.