The Maluch

The Polish Fiat 126, affectionately known as the "Small Fiat," first rolled out of the Italian factory in 1972, and less than a year later, its production began at the Fabryka Samochodów Małolitrażowych (Small-Displacement Car Factory) in Bielsko-Biała. The "Maluch," most often chosen in the red paint version, could serve as a substitute for the small Fiat 500, thereby giving citizens of the Polish People's Republic a taste of Italian style.

Our Fiat 126 was produced in several versions - Standard, Special, and Komfort, although any limited models did not differ much from each other. Units produced in Poland often did not reach the domestic market but were exported to Germany or Italy, allowing our western neighbors to experience the spirit of the Polish People's Republic, expressed in the angular body of the "Maluch." Beyond its iconic shape, the "Maluch" will forever be remembered, especially by passengers usually traveling in the back seat, who had to tuck in their legs every time.

The drawing is by Wrocław artist Paweł Grabowski.