Description
What is an 850T ?
Essentially a direct descendent of the now highly collectable Fiat 600 Multipla, the first of the 'people carriers'. Produced between 1964 and 1976 the 850T was originally produced as a six seater Familiare based on the then-new Fiat 850 saloon range, the firms latest rear engined design.
Original variants had just 34bhp this Camper has the later 903cc unit of the four cylinder type fitted to the Fiat 127 for an earth shattering 45bhp. In the UK the delivery van version or a dropside pick up were the most widely encountered but Fiat did quite good business with the camper van conversions that the design lent itself too, teaming up with specialist Motor Caravan Conversions Ltd. of Bedfordshire to offer a successful range of models which offered comparable yet compact competition for to the VW Camper.
Three models were marketed; Farina, Fiesta and Fargo. The biggest advantage of the Fiesta was a split bulkhead which folded flat to allow up to 7ft of double bed space at the front of the vehicle. Despite its size, this model offers basin, grill, stove, wardrobe, laminated and wooden tables, fully elevating roof with twin sleeping hammocks and seating for six people.
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Finished in white with just two registered keepers across 44 years and a meagre 9, 191 recorded miles, this vehicle stands up to close scrutiny: the only flaw in the bodywork is on the rood caused by condensation forming under the plastic pop-up top. It has retained all of its original fabrics, fixtures and fittings. From curtains, rails and food storage containers, to the side 'Isabella' three-berth tent, roof-rack, separate 'sanitary module' tent and original ground sheet, all in original linen storage bags.
Sparsely used but always cherished, this is a possibly unique opportunity to own an unrestored and unmodified piece 1970s Fiat camper van. Less than 50 miles covered since the MoT test in summer 2016 (at which time there were no advisories noted) and we are happy to put it through a new one. It gives every sign of being reliable and can be left for many months without flattening its battery.
?The Fiat drives well, with a smooth willing engine, light steering, easy gears and good brakes although inactivity has caused them to develop Jeremy Corbyn tendencies with a hard pull to the left when pressed.
For further details and film see :
- details above
