The well-known actor, Tom Hanks, holds prominent status globally with an approximate wealth of over $350 million. The Fiat 126, a diminutive and economical vehicle, was constructed in large quantities from 1973 to 2000 across Europe. If you fail to recognize the connection, you are unfamiliar with the deep admiration that the residents of Bielsko-Biala, Poland hold for Hanks.
Recently, a fully restored 1974 Fiat 126p was officially introduced into Tom Hanks’ collection thanks to the initiative of individuals from the former industrial area in southern Poland. Through crowdfunding, enough funds were raised to purchase a pre-owned model, refurbish it, and transport it across the Atlantic Ocean as a birthday present for the Academy Award winner. The rationale behind this gesture lies in comprehending Hanks’ quirky social media presence and the significance the small car held for Poland during the oppressive communist era.
Facebook | Monika Jaskólska
Unlike many other celebrities, Tom Hanks utilizes his Twitter account not for constant self-promotion or flaunting his immense wealth but rather for sharing simple, relatable photos from everyday life, all accompanied by a witty comment and his characteristic “Hanx” signature. His tweets often feature mundane objects like misplaced gloves or broken umbrellas. In 2016, there was a series of tweets depicting Hanks’ enthusiasm for a small vehicle during his visit to Budapest, Hungary, where he shared multiple pictures of himself standing next to various parked Fiat 126s on the streets, playfully claiming, “I can’t wait to drive my new car!”
The Fiat 126 is comparable in size to the original Austin Mini, and much like the latter, it gained popularity due to its production under Fiat license in communist Poland where it was marketed as the Polski Fiat 126p. Its affordability and widespread availability made it an emblematic vehicle in the final years of the twentieth century. Referred to as “Maluch,” translating to “toddler” or “little one” in Polish, the car holds a special place in the postwar history of the nation, especially for residents of Bielsko-Biala, the hometown of the Fiat 126p factory.
Thus far, we have a celebrated actor and an adored vehicle. When Monika Jaskolska, a resident of Bielsko-Biala and a fan of Hanks, noticed his tweets featuring her town’s pride, she took the initiative to raise funds to help him acquire one. After a few weeks and substantial donations amounting to thousands of dollars, the campaign successfully procured a Fiat 126 exclusively for Hanks. With additional contributions and sponsorships covering restoration and customized interior costs, the revamped car was revealed at an elaborate event in July.
Owing to his busy schedule, Hanks couldn’t attend the car’s presentation ceremony in Warsaw. Nonetheless, he sent a video message
Upon taking the wheel, he may not exhibit the same level of excitement, given that the tiny 594 cc two-cylinder motor generated a remarkable 23 horsepower and 29 pound-feet of power in its original form. However, the recently acquired writing machine-themed interior is said to be complemented by an overhauled engine with undisclosed enhancements. This one-of-a-kind Fiat 126 arrived at Los Angeles International Airport inside a LOT Polish Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner and was promptly collected by Hanks, who seems captivated by his recent acquisition that he allegedly drove into his living room (which is, in actuality, the Polish consulate in Los Angeles).
“It’s an exquisite vehicle,” expressed Hanks, as reported by Dziennik Zachodni. “I’m uncertain of its performance on Californian roads, but I’m reassured that I can repair it with just a screwdriver and a women’s belt.”
Conversely, it appears that he may have developed a newfound fondness for a larger alternative, which happens to be much closer at hand: His most recent tweet boasting about his “new car” showcases an impressively spacious 1967 Pontiac Grand Prix convertible.
