1971 Fiat 500F Jolly Clone

The one that's up for auction in these photos isn't a real Jolly, though, it's a clone based on what was once an ordinary '71 500F. While collectors will obviously care about that, I couldn't care less. I just want to buy it and have the seller ship it from its current home in Italy to someplace warm and tropical where I can immediately retire and spend the rest of my days putzing around paradise.

Sure, this Jolly won't get me anywhere in a hurry, not with its half-liter two-pot engine that likely has fewer horses than most farm stables, but that's fine because I'd have nothing but time. I could also keep my left leg in shape by exercising its third pedal, but I can't imagine going so fast that I'd ever need to reach top gear with its four-speed. Although it'd be interesting to see what would happen if it did go 120 km/h (about 75 mph), the peak indicated by its speedo. With its super light curb weight and big cloth top, could this Jolly Fiat turn into a flying Fiat? It's probably best if no one finds out.  My biggest complaint is that I don't see any beverage holders inside the buggy. Where am I supposed to secure my piña colada (non-alcoholic, obviously)? I guess I'll just have to hold the glass between my legs while I sit on the Jolly's wicker furniture that replaces traditional seats. I won't lie, they're my favorite feature. However, I'd be fibbing if I said they look comfortable. Chalk up another reason to keep this thing at a golf-cart-safe pace.

With six days left to go before the auction ends on Thursday, August 11, this jolly-looking Fiat 500F currently has a high bid of $15,000. I would love one for myself, but that love is mostly dependent on the location I get to drive it in. A wonderful vacation vehicle? Definitely. As primary transportation in southeastern Michigan? Not so much.