1991 Fiat Tipo DGT review from Greece

Windshield leaky from new, replaced immediately by dealer, no problem since.

Temperature gauge faulty from new, repaired immediately by dealer, no problem since.

Digital speedometer failed at 150000 km, the whole dashboard was easily replaced at a very low price though, since there are plenty available in scrap yards.

Power windows sluggish during summer months only (!), working fine throughout the rest of the year.

Minor electrical failures from time to time (rear fog lights, licence plate lights, ventilation control lighting etc.) all after 100000km and easily repaired by me or the local garage without having to consult the dealer.

Starter failed at 180000km, easily replaced by a used one at a very low price.

Interior sqweeking and cracking a bit, but only after 100000 km or so, and due to heavy use in bad country roads and even off road from time to time.

Back in 1991, the car was cheaper, roomier and prettier than anything available at the time (VW GOLF II, CITROEN BX, etc)

Interior room is amazing, and the car is very comfortable to travel in, even for

long journeys.

Performance is average due to low horsepower (70 hp) but the motor has good torque from low down and is very civilized, especially when moving in traffic. At speeds above 120-130 km/h the engine becomes noisy and petrol-thirsty, but the car is clearly not meant to travel faster than that, and if you drive it sensibly it proves to be quite economic (average 8-9 lt / 100 km)

Handling is great with immediate responsiveness, light yet accurate steering and minimal tilt in curves, even with plain factory absorbers. The brakes are very effective (no ABS) but a little noisy from new.

Overall, I have been totally satisfied with my Tipo, and I was happy to find that criticism on quality and dependability of italian cars proved to be totally unfounded. In fact, my family bought two more FIATs since 1991, a Marea 1.6 and a Punto 1.2 which have also proven to be problem-free so far.