Here we have the strange, much later follow-up to the classic Fiat Spyder. Unfortunately, these are FWD and based on the Punto platform of the day. Not only is the handling not stellar, the styling is odd and 0-60 took close to 9.0 seconds! Add in 90s Italian reliability and you have a winning package on every level.
Regardless, these have novelty value here in North America, as they weren’t sold here. This example found its way to Canada via Japan (?).
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Victoria, BC, Canada
$999.00 with 2 bids and reserve not met
12/07/2013 update: Ended with reserve not met at $2,475 with 17 bids
Even mediocre Italian engines don’t necessarily LOOK boring. Okay, okay, it’s not bad for a 1990s 1.8L 4cyl.
Ad text:
Normal (left-hand drive) Fiat Barchetta convertible imported from Japan. Licensed and legal to drive in BC, Canada. VIN is ZFA18300000018687.
The engine is small but typically Italian and a lot of fun to drive. It features variable camshaft timing similar to Honda’s VTEC system. The car weights about 1,000kg.
This is the earlier model which was hand built by Maggiora in Italy and generally considered better built than the later models. Barchetta means “little boat” and refers to an open-top, light weight, 2-seater sports car.
This car is Midnight Blue, and the body is in good condition. There is a small crack on the front bumper that could be repaired, or covered with a bra. Touch-up paint is available and will come with the car. The air conditioning is non-functioning but may just need a re-charge. The top is in generally good condition, but the rear window is hazy. I understand this is easily replaced but I haven’t had the time and drive with the top down anyhow. Speedo is working intermittently, I cleaned the contacts and it was working but now it’s on the fritz again.
These were very popular cars world-wide and although there’s only a few in Canada, there’s good support from the Netherlands and the UK.
The Barchetta was famously featured in the 2010 Top Gear special through the Middle East where it was the most reliable of a Mazda Miata MX5 and a BMW Z3.
Features:
Brand new Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring with 90,000km tread warranty
118,000km
5 speed standard (manual) transmission
1.8l 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC engine with variable camshaft timing producing 130hp
4 wheel disc brakes
Factory alloy rims
Awesome Summer fun here in Canada but the weather’s turned and its time to import another project.
Please note, import and registration are the buyers responsibility, but I will assist where and when possible.