Description
The ISO Autocarro 500 was equipped with a single-cylinder, air-cooled, 500cc two-stroke engine, producing around 10–13 horsepower depending on the variant. It featured a 3-speed manual transmission and had a top speed of approximately 50-60 km/h (31-37 mph), which was adequate for urban environments. The vehicle could carry a payload of about 500 kg (1,100 lbs), making it suitable for light commercial use. It employed a rear-wheel-drive layout, offering decent traction, especially when loaded, and used basic leaf spring suspension, common for vehicles of this type at the time.
The Autocarro 500 was born out of post-war Italy’s economic recovery, where there was a strong demand for affordable and practical transport solutions. ISO Rivolta, a company originally known for manufacturing refrigerators, transitioned into vehicle production to meet this need. The small size of the Autocarro 500 made it ideal for navigating narrow, crowded streets, and it was commonly used by small businesses, vendors, and local services. Its simple design and two-stroke engine made it reliable and easy to repair, contributing to its popularity.
Though it was a practical and economical vehicle, ISO Rivolta would later shift towards more luxurious and high-performance cars, such as the Iso Grifo and Iso Rivolta GT. However, the Autocarro 500 played a significant role in helping the company recover during a difficult economic period and is remembered for its contribution to Italy’s post-war transportation needs.