FIAT 500 (2001)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 31 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
31
Avg Mileage
34,363 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2001 FIAT 500 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 23 years old, 81% of FIAT 500s from 2001 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 31 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 34,363 miles.
How does the 2001 FIAT 500 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2001 FIAT 500 has 34,363 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 170,200 miles for a 23-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a FIAT 500?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2001 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2001 FIAT 500 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
FIAT 500 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 93% | 195 | 18,379 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 7,732 | 23,865 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 31,868 | 27,173 mi |
| 2018 | 86% | 40,756 | 33,498 mi |
| 2017 | 83% | 39,899 | 40,199 mi |
| 2016 | 80% | 56,821 | 45,258 mi |
| 2015 | 78% | 69,392 | 51,933 mi |
| 2014 | 78% | 73,839 | 58,446 mi |
| 2013 | 78% | 63,361 | 63,074 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 51,956 | 68,150 mi |
| 2011 | 75% | 36,701 | 72,823 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 39,852 | 77,223 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 38,991 | 82,820 mi |
| 2008 | 72% | 23,228 | 86,722 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 241 | 89,332 mi |
| 2001 | 81% | 31 | 34,363 mi |
Checking a specific FIAT 500?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2001 FIAT 500
The 2001 FIAT 500 is a performance with a 4995cc petrol engine. 31 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 21% of all 2001 cars for reliability.
With an average of 34,363 miles at 23 years old, FIAT 500 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2001 FIAT 500 Fuel Costs
The 4995cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2001 FIAT 500?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FIAT 500 Reliability Trend
Newer FIAT 500s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 11 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2001 FIAT 500
At 23 years old, the FIAT 500 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 93%. Note: with only 31 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2001 FIAT 500
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES SL (2003) 86% pass rate (+5%) from 5,173 tests
- MERCEDES CLK (2000) 81% pass rate (same) from 2,099 tests
- MERCEDES ML (2003) 74% pass rate (-7%) from 1,905 tests
- TVR CHIMAERA (1999) 88% pass rate (+7%) from 1,468 tests