1998 Fiat Cinquecento Sporting review from UK and Ireland

Fuel tank suffered from corrosion, causing a leak at 89,000.

Rear hand brake back plate collapsed at 90,000 miles.

Front wheel bearing collapsed at 92,000 miles.

This car is excellent, a little on the basic side compared with modern models, but at the time of manufacture was adequate.

The overall quality is of a very high standard both inside and out, bodywork is galvanised and therefore they don't tend to rot away, equipment levels are good such as electric windows, central locking, tinted windows, sports interior with leather and fabric seats, alloy wheels and body coloured bumpers with sports trim.

My Cinquecento and I have been a long way together now, and even though the mileage is now high for the distance I have travelled, the car has been very reliable and bizarrely I have had no problems with the electric's, which is rare for a Fiat. You never know, maybe they have finally conquered their demons?

The engine is very willing and capable on motorways, and eats up country lanes with ease. Parking is very easy due to the car's short wheel base.

The space inside the car is very well proportioned. You can fit 4 adults comfortably, and leg and head room are ample.

I would recommend this car to anyone, and I don't think I will be selling mine any time soon. If my dear old Uno could cope with 211k on the clock before it was written off by a reckless driver who pulled out of a parked position from the wrong side of the road, I would probably still be driving it today.