Many American retirees would love to own an Italian car because the brands feel stylish and a bit special compared with basic economy models. The problem is that many Italian cars are very expensive and retirees who rely on Social Security often cannot afford the sticker price or the repairs. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the average retired worker benefit in 2025 is around $2,000 per month, so every bill matters for these households.
American retirees who live on Social Security need cars that are simple and cheap to run and also not too costly to buy used. For this reason, GOBankingRates asked ChatGPT to look for Italian cars that are stylish, easy to drive and still realistic for people on fixed incomes. The below list focuses on small models where the used prices and running costs are closer to what many Social Security budgets can handle.
Also there are the Italian brands named the most reliable.
Fiat 500
- Price: under $6,000
ChatGPT said the Fiat 500 stands out for retirees mainly because of its low used prices, compact size and easy maneuverability around town. According to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), used 2015 Fiat 500 models often list between about $4,550 to $5,925 at dealerships, depending on condition.
Edmunds showed some used Fiat 500s starting under $3,000, which can significantly lower monthly payments or allow cash purchases altogether. Those price points make the little 500 attractive for retirees who only need short-trip transportation for groceries, appointments and social visits. ChatGPT noted that the 500’s modest power and small footprint keep fuel costs down, which is crucial on a fixed Social Security check.
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Older Fiat 124 Spider
- Price: under $15,000
The artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot suggested the Fiat 124 Spider mainly for retirees seeking an inexpensive Italian roadster as a second or hobby car. Used-car listings on Classic.com show many older 124 Spiders trading well under $15,000, with some high-mileage or project cars significantly cheaper. That relatively low entry price allows some retirees to indulge in weekend cruising without committing the funds required for more modern convertibles.
ChatGPT stressed that this car rarely makes sense as a primary vehicle for retirees, especially those relying almost entirely on Social Security. Older convertibles often need extra maintenance and occasional restoration work, but parts availability and online communities can help keep costs reasonable for patient owners. For drivers who already have a dependable daily car, an affordable 124 Spider can add enjoyment to retirement without undermining long-term financial stability.
Fiat 500X
- Price: under $10,000
For retirees wanting more space and a higher ride height, ChatGPT highlighted the Fiat 500X as a strong value play among small crossovers. According to KBB, used 2016 Fiat 500X models typically range from about $6,575 to $9,450 from dealers, depending on trim and mileage. TrueCar data showed average used 500X transaction prices under $10,000 for many older model years, leaving room in tight retirement budgets.
ChatGPT said that a combination of SUV practicality and sub-$10,000 pricing can be ideal for retired drivers who still haul family or luggage regularly. The 500X offers easier entry and exit than low sedans, which helps aging knees and hips, along with available all-wheel drive for bad weather. With fuel economy in the low-twenties city and low-thirties highway range, operating costs remain relatively manageable for Social Security-only households.
Alfa Romeo Giulia
Price: under $23,000
ChatGPT acknowledged that the Alfa Romeo Giulia is more of a luxury purchase, but said four-cylinder models can still work for certain retirees. Cars.com data showed the nationwide average price for a used 2021 Giulia at around 22,641 dollars, with some listings starting near $15,526. KBB similarly noted that current Giulia resale values hover in the high-teens to low-twenties, well below original sticker prices.
Those numbers still exceed the cheapest transportation, but ChatGPT said they can appeal to retirees who saved extra and want daily driving enjoyment. The Giulia’s comfortable seats, sharp steering and advanced safety features help reduce fatigue on longer drives, which older motorists may especially appreciate. As long as buyers budget for somewhat higher maintenance and insurance costs, the four-cylinder Giulia can deliver Italian character without supercar-level bills.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Asked ChatGPT Which Italian Car Retirees Should Buy on Social Security — Here’s What It Said
