1985 Fiat Regata 70ES Comfort 1.2 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

At the time (1990's), an unsung super saloon

Faults:

Rust all over the bodywork, especially the wheel arches.

Timing chain failure @ 160,000 miles (but my fault really for not replacing it as I should have done!).

Consistent steady, but low level oil leaks from the engine.

General Comments:

A great, reliable workhorse.

It could swallow loads of luggage, or take the family on holiday trips in comfort and style.

Petrol economy was good for a car of its size.

The seats are comfortable and the driving position is excellent.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st May, 2001

1989 Fiat Regata 70 1.3 from Spain

Summary:

A comfortable and economical performance compact

Faults:

First changes were at 200.000 km:

Clutch.

Radiator.

Suspension.

Top gasket leaking & changed at 220.000 km.

Electronic ignition blew, left me stranded on the motorway at 270.000 km.

General Comments:

General interior (seats, lining etc) is not at all worn out, it maintains perfectly.

This car is like an armoured tank, very strong. I fell asleep on the motorway doing 110kph - only minor damage to the car, continued driving without stopping slamming against the middle cement separation.

Even if the engine is 1.3 the performance is like a 1.5, excellent in acceleration and recuperation.

This car was very unstable in fast curves, but with the new suspension (Monroe sensatrac) and wider tires I added (before 155/55, now 170/60) the car is glued to the pavement.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th April, 2001

1989 Fiat Regata 85 1.6 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Great all rounder!

Faults:

Nothing except for loads of rust!

The plastic trim at the bottom of the doors has fallen off due to rust!

General Comments:

Great car! Can be bought for very little now, quite a lot of extra stuff inside that you only find on a more luxury car. If you can live with the rust the engine will last forever and it responds quickly when pushed! The only problem (apart from rust) is it tends to skid out if you take bends too fast, but it is a family saloon after all!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th May, 2000

26th Mar 2006, 10:33

I agree with the rust, but my main problem is caused by the engine.

9th Jul 2006, 09:36

Rust the only problem? You must be joking! How about the jumping out of gear? the steering wheel wanting to go every way apart from the one you required? The breakdown every 300 miles? The times it set itself on fire? These things didn't need mechanics, they needed priests!