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April 15, 2015
FIAT | Fiat | Fumie Shibata vs. Fiat 500 (1) The meticulous sense of design that catches the eye on the street
Vol.2 Fumie Shibata vs. Fiat 500
Chapter 1: A Design That Caught My Eye on the Street
The Fiat 500 had long been a car of interest for Fumie Shibata. What captured her attention was its unique design, which seemed to transcend its compact size.
—First, could you share your candid impressions of the Fiat 500?
I'd been curious about it for a while. While foreign cars have become more common in Tokyo, many Japanese cars still feel very much like industrial products. This car, however, really stood out. It was like seeing something cute moving around; it just caught my eye.
—I must confess, the reason we arranged for you to test the Fiat 500 wasn't just from an industrial designer's perspective, but also with the ulterior motive of hearing your thoughts as a woman.
That's perfectly fine. I understand completely (laughs). It feels like a car that would suit me. In terms of age and profession. I can imagine myself driving it. So, when it comes to my personal criteria for choosing a car, the most important thing is that I can drive it in jeans or a dress. I don't like styling that's limited to only casual or formal occasions.
—I believe your opinion is correct in the sense that it should be versatile for any occasion. However, few cars truly achieve that.
Then, what kind of styling do I like? It's when the shape itself has an identity. I'm drawn to forms that seem to speak to you. For example, in a historic city like Kyoto,Ferrari—don't you wonder why they look so at home? It's not just because Ferrari's design is beautiful, but because its design carries a strong message.
That's why I was drawn to the Fiat 500 when I saw it in Tokyo. It has a unique design sensibility that feels retro yet avoids being merely nostalgic. In other words, it was full of meticulous design. I thought, 'It's small, but it must not be cheap.'
—Indeed, with a maximum of 1.4 liters, it starts in the 2 million yen range.
Whether it's something you want to own, transcending price and practicality, that's also important. If a car can't become something that surpasses comparisons, like being able to buy a larger car for the same price in Japan, then as an 'image model,' I might not want to drive it.
I no longer need a provisional champion. I want to own only a champion in a specific genre. That's what a car means to me.
