1969 Fiat 850 2 door Coupe review from North America
"A fun, but vulnerable car (class <1) deathtrap"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Oversteered a lot near 0.8g. Spun it sideways a few times when pushed, but controllable *abrupt. Like a wild go kart.
Halfshaft popped out of tranny several times.
Alternator/generator died at 48K.
Got over 35mpg hwy CA to NJ 2/72 kept log.
Vinyl interior oil film on windows when hot.
Engine seized at about 55,000.
General comments?
My first car $1560 used at a BMW dealer when the best BMW was $5500.
Lowered it even more (Abarth) & wider alums 6" & Veith tires 13x165x70? Rubbed once in a while, so banged out the fender.
Made a nose spoiler 7" @ 45deg 3"+inches off ground.
Konis added-FIRM Top speed 101mph passenger wt =260.
Was a fun car to zip around like a madman in. Lucky to be alive from age 17-20. Almost made it in back seat.
2x3' area.
Economy is no value for a car in hwy accidents and this would car would fold up on you. It is a dainty car and life is too short.
1971 Datsun 510 sedan in '74 for $1200 (ventura CA)
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1969 |
| First year of ownership | 1971 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1976 |
| Engine and transmission | 847cc Manual |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 15000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 55000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 23rd January, 2008 |