Fiat 500 wins European COTY for 2008

The Fiat 500 carries more history and heritage than most minicars, excepting possibly the Mini. Alternately named the 500, the Cinquecento (literally, Italian for “500?) and Nuova 500, Fiat’s iconic minicar won the hearts of millions of drivers between 1957 and 1975. Since its rebirth in 2007, the 500 has proven true love never dies. And today it further assures itself a place in history by winning the 2008 European Car of The Year award.

Journalistic accolades for exterior and interior styling are one thing - and the 500 has those in spades. But getting the nod in a contest sponsored by seven major auto magazines with 58 journalists from 22 countries on the panel is quite another - but the 500 now has that, too. And the Fiat took it by a handy margin, beating the next-best Mazda2 by 60 points in the final tally. Kia’s Cee’d came in third with just half the points of the Mazda. Nissan’s Qashqai and Mercedes-Benz’s C-class rounded out the top five, reports Automotive News.

The 500 wowed critics upon its release with its perfect blend of modern and retro styling and an interior that effortlessly combines function with beauty. Based on the same platform as Fiat’s Panda, the 500 is also a very affordable and economic citycar. For a full review, check out our experience with the Fiat 500 1.3L Multijet.