Fiat 508
The car that mobilised Italy, bringing affordable motoring to the masses.
- Power
- 20 bhp
- Top speed
- 50 mph
- Est. value
- $10k–$25k
About the Fiat 508
Introduced at the 1932 Milan Motor Show, the Fiat 508 Balilla was a revolutionary small car designed to replace the 509 and compete with the Austin 7. It featured a simple but robust side-valve engine and hydraulic brakes, a rarity for economy cars of the era. The Balilla was produced in numerous body styles including the popular two-door saloon, a spider, and a torpedo. Its success was instrumental in establishing Fiat as a dominant force in European mass-production, with over 100,000 units built across two series.
Fiat 508 specs
The Fiat 508 produces 20 bhp (15 kW) and 54 Nm (40 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
| Make | Fiat |
|---|---|
| Model | 508 |
| Trim | Balilla |
| Years | 1932–1937 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Italy |
| Engine | 995cc side-valve inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 995 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 20 bhp (15 kW) at 3,400 rpm |
| Torque | 54 Nm (40 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 50 mph (80 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 685 kg (1,510 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 29 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Fiat 508 worth?
A typical Fiat 508 is estimated to be worth $10,000 – $25,000 (about £7,500 – £19,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Fiat 508 rarity in CarSpot
The Fiat 508 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Fiat 508 fun facts
- The name 'Balilla' was a reference to the Italian Fascist youth organisation, though the car itself was designed as a practical 'people's car'.
- It was so successful internationally that it was produced under licence by NSU in Germany, Simca in France, and Polski Fiat in Poland.
- A more powerful 'Sport' version, the 508S, became a legendary entry-level racer in events like the Mille Miglia.
