Stylish MPVs from the late 1950s
by Ciprian Florea, onJay Leno’s classic car collection is one of the biggest and most impressive out there. And it includes an amazing amount of rare vehicles. However, Leno is missing the weird and somewhat anonymous Fiat 600 Multipla Mirafiori, an MPV-style hauler built in just five units in 1958. Only two survived and they’re owned by the same enthusiast and he paid Leno a visit to showcase them.
The Mirafiori was designed and built by Fiat's special projects team. Word has it Fiat wanted a special car to drive high-profile people that came to visit the factory.
It was based on the 600 Multipla, an MPV based on the tiny Fiat 500 that replaced the iconic Topolino. But the Mirafiori was longer and wider and fitted with numerous bespoke features. Novelties included an all-glass roof that could be removed to create a six-seat convertible, bumpers made from oak, and a fancier interior.
Of the five cars built only two survived, and they're owned by the same man.
One was fully restored, repainted, and fitted with a leather interior by famed furniture brand Poltrona Frau. Both look amazing, even though the blue car has yet to be thoroughly restored.
And it seems like they’re quite fun to drive. To the point where I bet Jay Leno would be willing to pay lots of cash to keep one of the two existing Multipla Mirafioris. Check them out in the latest installment of Jay Leno’s Garage.
