Canada’s first Fiat 500 sells for $85,000

Winning bidder Ralph Chiodo (right) with Laura Soave, Head of Fiat Brand North America

The Fiat 500’s North American debut is turning out to be one surrounded by a lot of buzz. Last month, Chrysler Group LLC and Fiat SpA announced that they have received 500 deposits at $500 each for the limited production run of 500 units for the Fiat Cinquecento 500 Prima Edizione.

Over the weekend, Chrysler Canada decided to donate the country’s fist Fiat 500 to the live auction at Toronto’s 17th annual Venetian Ball. The ball was held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre with all proceeds benefiting Villa Charities.  The unit at the auction was the very first Fiat Cinquecento Prima Edizione with unique numbered badge – “Numero Uno”

“The enthusiastic bidding for this iconic vehicle, and the fact that it sold for $85,000, underscore the excitement and interest the Fiat 500 has generated since Fiat’s return to Canada was first announced,” said Ed Broadbear, Vice President of Marketing – Chrysler Canada.

The “Numero Uno” is the first in a series of 500 limited edition vehicles which will feature a unique Prima Edizione sequential badge according to production order. The Fiat 500 Prima Edizione will be exclusively available in three colours: Bianco (White), Rosso (Red) and Grigio (Gray).

Refresher: Hitting dealerships in spring 2011, the North American version of the Fiat 500 is powered by Fiat”s 1.4L in-line 4-cylinder engine featuring MultiAir technology. The system delivers an increase in power up to 10 percent and a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions up to 10 percent when compared to competitor engines.

Click here for more news on the Fiat 500.

2011 Fiat 500 (North America):

– By: Zain Haq