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The Fiat 500 B Giardinetta Panoramica by Zagato Milano.
The Fiat 500 Giardiniera Panoramica showcased the innovative Panoramica concept patented by Zagato Milano, adapted to create Fiat’s “Giardiniera,” the Italian term for “Station Wagon.” This design was applied to at least two models: the Fiat 500C Topolino and its larger counterpart, the 1100 Giardiniera. The Panoramica concept was renowned for its use of Plexiglas to enhance visibility, a feature inspired by aircraft cockpits. This advanced design was seamlessly integrated into the Fiat 500 Giardiniera, giving it a modern and sleek look. The use of Plexiglas for the upper parts of the windshield, as well as for the rear and side windows, provided drivers with improved visibility and passengers with a panoramic view, setting these models apart from other station wagons of the time. The Fiat 500C Topolino, affectionately known as “Little Mouse” in Italian, was already a beloved small car, and the Giardiniera version added a new level of practicality and style. The larger 1100 Giardiniera offered more space while maintaining the same innovative design principles, catering to families and those needing more cargo capacity without sacrificing the modern aesthetics introduced by Zagato’s Panoramica concept. Both models embodied the forward-thinking approach of Zagato Milano and Fiat, combining functionality with cutting-edge design. The aerodynamic shape and lightweight construction of the Panoramica body not only improved the cars’ performance but also gave them a distinctive and elegant appearance. Although the exact number of these Panoramica Giardiniera models produced remains unknown, their impact on automotive design is undeniable. They represent a unique chapter in the history of Fiat and Zagato, illustrating how innovative concepts can be successfully adapted to different vehicle types. The Fiat 500 and 1100 Giardiniera Panoramica models are celebrated for their blend of practicality, style, and advanced design, continuing to inspire car enthusiasts and designers to this day.
The car with which Zagato inaugurated the “Panoramica” series in 1947 was a Fiat “1100”, characterized by a large and bright passenger compartment, in which the transparent surfaces were expertly made with a mix of crystal and Plexiglas, an experimental material that allowed the curvature.
