19th Feb 2009, 06:56
Dude, the HGT was good in its day, but the problem is it's a tourer not a hot hatch. It was never meant to be either, people just adopted it because there was nothing else at that time. Sure you could modify it to death, but that just ruined it.
I have had two, and loved them, they were quick small cars that sounded brilliant. But in all honesty, they were never that fast. But it was the best value car of its type in its time. The equipment you got as standard was very impressive compared to a Saxo, 206, and almost all of the other cars in ITS CLASS out at that time. The Punto HGT stood head and shoulders above any of those cars in terms of value that is.
I now own a diesel Astra pushing 210hp, and the performance is impressive for what it is. Small upgrade coming soon on; it should have 230 plus maybe. My point being things move on. So should we. Maybe that's why you think the HGT is boring, compared to modern cars not surprised really. Anyway enjoy the coupe, they're fast.
23rd Feb 2009, 18:29
It's very interesting reading all these comments. Over the years I've owned all sorts of cars. BMW, Audi, Jaguar, Saab. I even had an early 90s Maserati for a while. But, when I was 33, I did go out and buy an HGT. Owned it for about a year and a half and never once did it let me down. It may not have been the fastest car I've owned, but it was definitely the most fun and it still gripped like a leech, even if it was a little too stiff. It had minor mods done to it and was dyno'd to 135bhp at the wheels. I drive all over the country and it was the first car that NEVER gave me back problems. Ever!
Point to point on a B road nothing would touch it, but then I am mad and have fairly little fear. I sold it to a mate 3 years ago and it still hasn't broken down, but then it is well maintained. In fact, it is more reliable than any other car I owned, although the Alfa 156 I have now has also never let me down!
If anyone wants a cheap, fun and reliable car - get an HGT without a doubt! I would have another if it wasn't for the fact I need four doors.
11th Apr 2009, 16:54
This car is rubbish. Get a 106, you get more bang for your buck. The GTi is much better car.
20th Apr 2009, 05:28
Yep mate, you will get more bang for your buck as you put it, but that's all.
HGT goodies are what make it a great car. Sat nav., 6 disc CD changer, six airbags, 7 if you include the driver. Power steering with a girly button. You know what I mean if you have owned one.
AS FOR ITS HANDLING, you can lower it I did. A set of Konis.
The HGT is always been a good car, people compare it to the VTS and 106 GTI. But TO BE HONEST it's too heavy, 110 kilos to be precise, the VTS and GTi are a lot lighter and lower, and so have less drag factor. The HGT IS A GREAT LOOKING CAR, but has a drag factor of a house brick.
All that said, it's still a great looking motor.
8th May 2009, 10:58
I have a Fiat Coupe 20VT and the Mrs has a Barchetta ragtop (same motor as the HGT) Barchetta is a stage 1 tuned with a re-map, cold air feed and platinum plugs. It's nippy, but no way will it stay with modern hot hatches driven quickly. Dyno recently gave 145Hp, which isn't even warm by modern standards.. it's no performance car, just brisk and fun to drive.
The Coupe is tuned and running 300Hp with re-,map, fmic and various other mods. But it still won't catch/beat a BMW M3!
26th Nov 2009, 07:51
I have an HGT, and have had no problems with it. I love the fact people think it's a 1.2, coz they try and give it some, but have no chance. I think all round it's a good lil nippy car.
28th Dec 2009, 05:18
The HGT is unreliable, badly built, doesn't go around corners no matter what you do to it, and ain't very quick in a straight line. Oh, and most of them are yellow.
16th Jun 2010, 14:02
Imprezas and Evos - LOL.
Were they parked at the time by any chance?
I've no idea why people put such unrealistic comments on here that nobody in their right mind will believe!
Saxo VTRs etc you might edge, but any Turbo Impreza and Evo you will not stand a chance pal!
10th Oct 2010, 18:58
I own an Punto HGT/Abarth, and it goes like madness, it has 950kg, Sparco racing seats, Sabelt racing buckles, JR Racing air filter, exhaust system behind the front wheels (aluminum pipes), 17" wheels with 225/35 tyres, Simoni Racing Pro spoiler, and when I'm driving it, it feels like driving a carting!!! It has amazing acceleration in all areas, from 2000rpm to 7000rpm!
15th Feb 2009, 13:14
This is a boring car. I have had the Punto HGT for 2 years now, and am bored of being left behind by cars like the 200SX, Focus ST, Integra Type R and Civic VTi.
I was beaten by a 106 GTi last week and the driver looked about 10, so I'm getting rid of my slow letdown, the HGT, and I am getting a Fiat Coupe 20v Turbo. The best bit is it costs the same and is faster than all the above.
What cars have you been beet by or won aganst?