Club members get first choice for collector's-edition Fiat 500

Attendees of this year's Club Fiat-Lancia Unlimited national convention--also known as the "Fiat Freak Out"--were rewarded for their devotion to the Italian automaker.

During the convention's closing dinner, the Fiat fans were given first dibs on the Fiat Cinquecento Prima Edizione, a collector's edition of the U.S.-bound Fiat 500.

Only 500 Prima Edizione models will be sold in the United States. Each model will have a unique vehicle identification number and an exclusive Prima Edizione badge according to production number.

Available in white, red or gray, the Prima Edizione was developed with Fiat fans in mind.

"For over a quarter of a century, the members of [Club Fiat-Lancia Unlimited] have kept the spirit of the Fiat and Lancia brands alive in North America through their unique and passionate support for true Italian design," said Laura Soave, head of Fiat North America. "We really value their loyalty, and the Prima Edizione is our gift of appreciation to these fans on behalf of Fiat North America."

The general public will also be given the chance to reserve the Prima Edizione. Reservations will be accepted via a Web site link that will be posted on www.ciaofiat.com at a later date.

Watch Chrysler video of the Fiat Cinquecento Prima Edizione announcement:

By Izzi Bendall