I inherited the car with 70k miles. I drove it till 145k (present). The original differential was noisy so I replaced it. Blew the timing belt at 144K - may have over extended it's life. Oil seals were shot by 120k.
Installed several distributors, and U-joints, (probably due to worn trailing arm). Replaced the driveshaft rubber donut, a water pump and the thermostat. Replaced ball joints and brake calipers. Lower A-arm bushing aged prematurely. Aging fuel lines replaced and carb cleaning required due to sediment build up.
Engine and transmission are extremely solid (Ferrari designer designed the engine). Body rusted easily, but is one of the most solid constructions I've ever seen (every inch is welded.. including fenders).
I had a 124 sport 1400 and I can agree that the mechanicals are strong. The body however is very very prone to rust and the interior is also cheaply made. All the money went on the oily bits.
My 2nd car was a 1600BC coupe.
It was reliable, cheap to run, economical and bloody fast!
I regret selling it. It was rust free and one of the best examples around.
Today it is deemed as a classic.
If a similar car was to be made today using modern materials, the cost would be in excess of $100K!
I have a 1600 BC, and I think it is great. I put twin weber downdrafts in it and it goes great.
The 1608 BC 124 Coupe is most probably the pick and top of the heap regards these cars. The smaller 1438 BC was so good it was incredible, the "1600" was just that much better, and the looks of this model are only approached for purity by the AC 1438 original.
Interestingly it's a lay down mazare the BC front is also featured on the Dino Coupe, AND the Jensen Interceptor, if you observe closely.
These things have GOT to be a classic. Might just have to get around to finding one.
I've had a 1972 Fiat 124 BC coupe since 1986 (20 years!). It was full of rust, but in 1995 had it all removed, with new panels being hand built and finished in lead - It cost an absolute fortune - but another 10 years on it all seems worth it.
Back in 1986, it was a gutsy car, with great performance and awesome handling. Now, a modern car will easily out perform the Fiat, but the emphasis has changed to that of a classic car, which I still love to "drive" - and do so every other weekend. It's a car I will never sell.
I also purchased a Fiat 124 Spider a few years ago, and throughly enjoy the summer days cruising in this car.
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