1998 Fiat Barchetta review from UK and Ireland
"An eye-catching car at a bargain price"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Variator needed replacement (common fault, haggle with Fiat who may replace it outside the warranty period).
General comments?
Beautiful styling, nice drive, and some rarity value on UK roads.
Terrible radio.
Window motors weak and slow.
Door handles can be a problem to open in winter.
Do NOT take to a Fiat dealer, they have hardly any experience of them - I highly recommend DTR in Mortlake, London SW14 who specialise in Barchettas (sales and service).
If shopping for a two-seater in the MGF or MX5 price/performance range, definitely check out the Barchetta, and don't be put off by the left-hand drive: in practice, it is very rarely a disadvantage.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 12000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 36000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Peugeot 306 XRDT |
| Date of Entry | 31st August, 2000 |