Fiat Readies New Set of Wheels for Barbie's 50th Anniversary

Despite the inroads made by Barbie during her 50-year career — she donned a Ferrari driver's uniform with racing helmet for the 2000 Scuderia Ferrari Barbie collector's toy — the Fiat 500 will be driven by Ken, according to a statement by the company. "Barbie will be aboard and she'll have her own special driver: Ken, of course," said Fiat.

Barbie has had her pick of wheels in the past, including a light pink Chevrolet Corvette convertible. She has also had a long fashion history with automakers, most notably Ferrari. There are several editions of Ferrari Barbie, including a 2001 model wearing a red evening gown and a silvery hair ornament in the shape of the Prancing Horse logo.

The Fiat 500 Barbie car gets such touches as crystals on the hubcaps, outer window moldings and antenna. The doll's silhouette is on the car's pillars. It also comes with a cover "featuring the distinctive '60s version of the Fiat 500 and a Barbie autograph," said Fiat. No word on horsepower upgrades.

Inside Line says: We'll probably have to wait for Barbie's 100th-anniversary celebration before she actually gets to drive the car. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent