One-of-a-Kind Fiat 500 D Coupè Built by Varis Vegni

Bespoke Classic - Always on the lookout for hidden gems and untold stories of rare and unique cars, we’ve uncovered something truly special. It’s not every day that a classic vehicle is reborn in a way that honors its legacy while completely redefining its character. When you think of iconic Italian automotive design, names like Ferrari or Lamborghini might be the first to come to mind—but for generations, the modest Fiat 500 has stood as a symbol of charm, practicality, and the resilient spirit of post-war Italy. It was never about speed or extravagance—it was about freedom. And now, a rare example is capturing attention not just for what it once was, but for the remarkable transformation it has undergone.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè is a custom-built creation by the skilled hands of Varis Vegni, dramatically transformed from its original form. (Picture from: Retromania4ever on X)

This is the story of a one-of-a-kind Fiat 500 D Coupè, custom-built by the skilled hands of Varis Vegni, a dedicated craftsman from the province of Grosseto, Italy. Originally a 1960 Fiat 500 D, this car started life as one of the many compact city cars that helped mobilize Italy during the economic boom. Vegni, who had owned the car since 1973, envisioned something far more distinctive. After years of planning throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he finally brought his design to life between the 1990s and early 2000s—transforming the beloved city car into a one-off coupé masterpiece.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè was entirely reimagined by Varis Vegni, who devoted his spare time to handcrafting its distinctive coupé silhouette using traditional hand-beating techniques while preserving the car’s original spirit. (Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)

Every curve and contour of this Fiat 500 was reimagined through manual craftsmanship. Vegni dedicated his spare time to reshaping the car’s body, using traditional hand-beating techniques to mold its unique coupe silhouette while preserving its unmistakable soul. The original “suicide doors” were retained, offering a nostalgic nod to the car’s classic design, but the overall bodywork was refined to give the vehicle a sleeker and sportier presence—without compromising its original proportions.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè features a fully restored interior, with upholstery redone in Fiat’s original ochre color and accented by a white bezel for a vintage touch. (Picture from: NetClassic.it)

What makes this coupé even more special is how faithfully it retains the essence of the original. It still runs on the rear-mounted 499cc twin-cylinder engine, producing 17 horsepower through a 4-speed manual gearbox. The original dimensions, including the signature sunroof, remain untouched, ensuring that the transformation didn’t stray from the spirit of the car. Updates include a dedicated front fuel tank and a custom battery compartment, thoughtfully integrated to support the modified structure.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè retains its original “suicide doors” as a nostalgic nod to its classic design, while its refined bodywork adds a sleeker, sportier presence without altering its original proportions. (Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)

Inside, the restoration continues to impress. The upholstery has been completely redone in Fiat’s original ochre color, accented with a white bezel for a vintage finish. New door panels, refreshed chrome details, and Giannini wheel studs reflect the attention to detail that defines this build. Even the hood has been replaced and now functions seamlessly, keeping out water and maintaining the car’s practical charm.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè showcases meticulous attention to detail through its new door panels, refreshed chrome accents, and Giannini wheel studs. (Picture from: QuatroMania.it)

Still painted in its original Fiat 115 Medium Red, this unique creation hasn’t just been restored—it’s been elevated. Certified for roadworthiness as recently as October 2021, it passed inspections with ease and has only minor maintenance needs noted for the future. With just over 38,000 kilometers on the odometer, it remains a working piece of art ready for display or daily enjoyment.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè remains painted in its original Fiat 115 Medium Red and is powered by a rear-mounted 499cc twin-cylinder engine delivering 17 horsepower through a 4-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)

Wherever it appears, this Fiat 500 D Coupè draws admiration. It was a highlight at the 2022 Auto Moto d’Epoca fair in Padua and is now catching the eyes of collectors and enthusiasts alike on platforms like Catawiki (already had sold). It may be small in stature, but this car carries a grand presence, proving that when passion meets craftsmanship, even the most modest beginnings can lead to extraordinary transformations.

For those looking not just for a car, but for a story—something lovingly crafted, deeply personal, and undeniably Italian—this Fiat 500 D Coupè is more than rare. It’s truly one of a kind. Curious to see more unique custom Topolinos? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CATAWIKI | RETROMANIA4EVER ON X | QUATROMANIA.IT | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ON FACEBOOK | WORLD CARS FROM THE 1930S TO 1980S ON FACEBOOK | NETCLASSIC.IT | PERICO001 ON FLICKR | MSNEWS.RO | CLASSICDRIVER | WEIRDWHEELS ON REDDIT | PINTEREST CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | NET CLASSIC ON FACEBOOK ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.