Fiat does small cars best, and the 128 – voted European Car of the Year when new – was one of its best.
A stalwart of the Fiat range through the 1970s and early 80s, the 128 also spawned a couple of interesting coupé variants, of which this is one.
The 128 1300 Sport Coupé debuted in 1971 and ran until 1974, taking the 128’s lively drivetrain and impressive chassis and mating it to cute two-door bodywork to make a wonderful, lively mini-GT.
It was never a big seller in the UK and survivors are in minuscule numbers as 1970s Fiats often rusted away, but this one is a rare and fine survivor, direct from a private collection and presented in fabulous overall order. idr0LjNmipshFgHMhSGKDElITAFxrURQaJGNCqpr.jpeg1.78 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Partial history
Owners handbook
UK V5C
Tax and MOT exempt
Spare key
Original sales brochure
Correspondence from previous owner describing work he carried out
The bright red leatherette seats are a stark contrast to the pale grey paintwork of the 128 and area key part of this car’s appeal, especially as they’re in such good order.
The dashboard is, too, with no cracks or damage, while the original carpets are presentable if a little faded. The door cards and headlining are good, and the car has never had a radio fitted. 7YKisvvxWpkvknKWhQuEWWPxd2hVZcXQEy9G9lPI.jpeg1.02 MB
THE EXTERIOR
Restored in 2000s
Overall still very sound
Factory option alloy wheels
Appears sound underneath
Finished in a pale, almost pastel grey the body is in great order for a 1970s Fiat, having been restored in the 2000s and dry-stored since. The underside also appears sound, and has been comprehensively undersealed as part of the restoration.
The car has its original factory option alloys and looks fantastic, with all the correct trim. There are a couple of minor areas for improvement, namely some tarnished chrome brightwork on the rear quarter and back bumper and a crack in the paint on the bonnet, which is also slightly misaligned and will require some adjustment by the new owner.
Fiat’s 1,290cc four-pot is a revvy little engine that’s so much punchier than the 75bhp on offer would suggest. It’s not refined, but it goes really well for a 1300 and is guaranteed to put a huge grin on your face.
It starts and runs well and holds a steady temperature, while it will be serviced before sale.
The transmission, brakes and steering all seem fine but please bear in mind that the car has been in storage for several years and some light fettling may be required before you use it in anger. eMpKqbmGoSBjK7ZU2gazJADdmBftNoWxdWAXZL74.jpeg1.16 MB
SUMMARY
This is not only a rare car in the UK, but also a massively adorable one with oodles of character and wonderful performance and handling for such a small car.
It’s in great overall condition and is one that you’ll very easily fall in love with.
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