Replacing the popular Fiat 500, the 126 was introduced in 1972, and whilst initially built by Fiat, was predominantly manufactured under licence by FSM in Poland and was also marketed under different names around the world.
The affordable and cheeky little city car was developed over the years and became one of the most common cars ‘for the people’ in Poland during the 1980’s with production eventually ending in 2000.
This amazingly low mileage Fiat is the later Polish FSM built BIS. Unlike earlier cars, this model features a hatchback, with the load space being maximised by positioning the rear-mounted two-cylinder engine on it’s side and in many ways was built to a higher standard than it’s Italian cousins.
An ex-demonstrator, this car was lovingly cared for by it’s long-term owner and Fiat enthusiast and comes to us in a time-warp condition. With under 9,000 miles on the clock, this is a great opportunity to own a brilliant and fun starter classic.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
First registered on the 30th November 1990
Purchased by the owner on the 12th February 1991
V5 (in the owner’s name)
Original Fiat 126 BIS Owner Handbook
No accompanying service history
Invoice for recent rear brake cylinder
Fiat workshop manual
Two generic workshop manuals
Box of spare parts
New ‘Pass’ MOT valid until 13th June 2024
Currently untaxed
The car was first used as a demonstrator by Allen Briggs Motors Ltd, Chingford, London, until
the long-term owner, from Ringwood, Hampshire, then acquired it in February 1991 and garaged it with their Fiat 500.
THE INTERIOR
Incredibly well preserved interior space
Superb dash, steering wheel and instrumentation
No known faults
Four seat belts
Heated rear window and wash wipe
Presentable door trims
Nice seats with just a tiny bit of wear on the driver’s seat
Excellent carpets and rubber mats
Unmarked roof lining
Folding rear seats and practical luggage space
Mint under-bonnet storage containing a spare wheel and tools
THE EXTERIOR
Glossy white paintwork all round
Straight-looking body with no glaring corrosion issues
Slight ding to centre of front panel
Windows, lights and mirrors are in good condition
The plastic trim and bumpers are very presentable
Reversing light and fog light
Sound stone chip painted sills
Impressively solid looking structure and floor underneath
Original steel wheels and decent Fiat trims
Four Michelin tyres with good tread depth
THE MECHANICS
704 cc OHV water-cooled engine
26 bhp @4,500 rpm with a top speed of around 70 mph
Approximately 55 mpg
4-speed transmission
Electronic ignition and alternator
Steering and suspension are said to operate as expected
Efficient drum brakes with a recently replaced rear brake cylinder
Access to fluid top-up and fuses up front
Good parts availability
SUMMARY
With sound low mileage mechanicals, no alarming corrosion, a new MOT and cheap insurance, this Fiat 126 is ready to take on the world and should be a lot of fun to own.
Sure it’s not the most refined car you are ever going to drive, but around town or on B-roads, it should be a blast and will happily fullfill it’s brief as a practical and economical car for the people!.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
