1938 Fiat Simca 5 Topolino

This absolutely charming example of the Simca Cinq clearly underscores why these cheeky little cars proved so popular both in Italy (as a Fiat) and in France. Whilst these European cousins were all but identical, it is the Simca version as seen here, that is by far the scarcer. Fiat churned out over 500,000 units with Simca producing less than 10% of that impressive number.

This example hails from 1938 just as the dark clouds of an impending worldwide conflict were starting to gather. Very little is known about this car’s life up until 2021 – basically most of it. It seems likely that it spent its life up to that point in the country of its birth. In 2021 current owner, Chris, acquired this little charmer in Chateau De Bern in France. It was imported to the UK in December of that year and was registered here in November 2025, making Chris this car’s first and only UK keeper.

With no odometer fitted and very little historic paperwork present we refer you to our extensive photographic package in order to appreciate the innate charm and desirability of this rare little peoples’ car.

Upon first encountering this tiny Simca it is easy to see why the car so quickly earned its Topolino moniker. The big, externally mounted headlights and long, sloping, shield shaped grill really lend this peoples’ car a “face” and an “expression” and it’s a cheeky and beguiling one. In profile the car appears almost prematurely truncated which only adds to its distinctive nature and unparalleled character.

Given the car’s external condition, it is safe to assume it has enjoyed a relatively recent restoration. The pillar box red paintwork appears thickly applied and impressively lustrous. The vestigial wings and rear spare wheel cover are finished in contrasting, gloss black which adds interest to an essentially simple design. There’s a sprinkling of chrome present with the sprung bumpers, grill surround and door handles accounting for the bulk of the brightwork. Other characterful design cues include rear hinged “suicide” doors, slim running boards and a generously louvred front valance. There is some paint cracking on the roof and some minor chips in evidence in places. The rubber windscreen surround is also reported as perished in places. Overall, however, both paint and bodywork remain deeply impressive for an 80 year old plus motor vehicle. The top of the front grill is noted to be broken but still in place.

The steel wheels are surprisingly big, if narrow, being 15-inch items. These are painted gloss black with red centres and dressed in chromed and embossed hub caps. The embossing acknowledges the Fiat-Simca link, even explaining their licensed relationship. A set of Dunlop radial tyres in a very slimline 125 configuration are fitted which seem to exhibit plenty of tread. Their age and viability remain unclear, however. 

Delightful simplicity are the watchwords when it comes to the Simca’s cabin. Given its budget peoples’ car origins, the trim of this example appears surprisingly plush. The bucket seats are finished in a corded velour in a mid-taupe hue. The hinged seat backs wrap around to provide what looks like plenty of lateral support. The condition looks great and, again, is suggestive of a more recent restoration. The biscuit hued carpets are deep piled and edge bound offering a surprising level of luxury for such a utilitarian model. Behind the seats is a carpeted luggage compartment which looks impressively commodious for such a small classic. Door panels are finished in the same corded velour, but the headlining is noted as missing.

The dashboard is formed from a painted steel panel and is sparsely populated to say the least. The instrumentation is confined to a Jaeger ammeter and an oil level gauge. An empty aperture is noted where the speedometer (and odometer) would have once been. A few buttons and switches are present, helpfully labelled in black Sharpie. An original looking, three spoke Bakelite steering wheel is fitted. 

Unsurprisingly given its target market and entry price, the Simca Cinq was optimised for economy above all else. It features a 4 cylinder, 569cc engine with side valves originally quoted as developing “13cv” (roughly 12 – 14 horsepower). In its favour the Cinq had a kerb weight of a little over 500kgs so the four speed manual gearbox could be used to row it along with surprising alacrity. In period the Automobile Club de France subjected the Simca to their “5 litre can economy test.” The results were a journey of 160.46 km at the average of 55 km/h, or an average of 3.1 litres per 100 kms (roughly mid 70s miles per gallon).

As you will see from our accompanying video this example seems to run sweetly with no signs of unexpected smoke from the side exiting exhaust. Chris the owner reports that it runs and drives and no mechanical issues have been reported.

That small four cylinder engine only occupies the nose of the Simca with the valance between it and the cabin bulkhead being set aside for the petrol tank and some other ancillaries. This area is lidded by twin, centrally hinged louvred panels. The original chassis number plate lives here an exhibits the chassis number 3522 and the engine number 3566. The forward opening nose opens to reveal the 569cc motor which exhibits a high level of originality and showcases its unusual, rear mounted radiator. The underside of the little Simca looks admirably good for its age. Most surfaces seem to have benefitted from an earlier application of protective under seal. 

There is a minimal paperwork archive included with this Simca. The current V5 Registration Document is present in the name of the owner This classifies the Simca as an Historic Vehicle which renders it MoT exempt and zero rated for road tax in the UK.

Other than that there is a document related to the 2021 import and a DVLA letter confirming the owner’s application for UK registration. Like the car itself, the paperwork archive is small but perfectly formed.

The Fiat Topolino and its French Simca Cinq cousin are rare sights in the UK. Most of the peoples’ car heat and light is reserved for the early Beetle and the later Fiat 500s. That makes them a charming antidote to the usual suspects in the UK today. Of course, the Simca iterations make up less than 10% of those produced in Italy making them the rarest of the rare in terms of this dynamic duo. 

It is hard not to fall for this tiny Simca. Its shiny black and red livery lends it even more appeal and character, and the overall condition seems impressive indeed for an automotive octogenarian. Given the car’s rarity and irresistible cutesy charm there is little else in the classic car firmament at this price point that is likely to draw an admiring crowd so readily. If that’s for you then bid today to put yourself at the centre of the attention.

Our estimate for this car is £4,000 - £6,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at THE MARKET, HQ. Viewings are STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT and we are open weekdays between 10am - 12pm or 2pm - 4pm. To make a booking, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.