The 126 was Fiat’s early 1970s replacement for the aged 500, which had been around since the late 1950s. These never officially came to the US, so they’re rare here. This car’s 126p designation means this Italian-engineered microcar was made in Poland.
Yes, this is a microcar and it gets extra points for its rear engine. If a vintage 500 is too common for you, think about picking up this rarity. The price feels high, but we challenge you to find another in the US.
Click for Craigslist ad
Somewhere in NY (?)
$15,800
Aside from the lack of a grill, this styling could easily fit on a front-engine, front-wheel-drive car.
There’s not much of a sense of scale here, but suffice it to say those are not large wheels. Again, only the small vents and small rear window suggest this car has a rear-mounted enginer.
Interior is simple, but effective. This is pretty much what we expect from a 70s Fiat.
Here’s the 600cc inline two-cylinder engine. 24HP means this is no rocket, even with its small size.
Ad text:
1976 Fiat 126P Ginster Yellow (factory Fiat color) with black interior, 48,539 original kilometers (30,307 miles), 4 speed manual. Brought back to “new” condition at 36,493 kilometers in 2007 using original Fiat parts/panels and everything that could have been replaced was. Car was built as an art project headed personally by Wlodek Pawluczuk (5 time Polish rally champion). It is period correct with all chrome original pieces with added tasteful details available on the 126 line – roof antenna, rear fog and reverse light, pop out rear windows, factory R wide wheels (fenders treated to accommodate), left and right mirrors, mud flaps, factory seat belts, H4 headlights with city/parking lights, tinted windshield, original radio, Cibie 95 projectors, Proda Serra 35 driving lights recently added (can be removed and brought back to original look if needed). Original 600cc 24hp engine with synchronized 4-speed gearbox. If one wanted a new Fiat 126p had unlimited resources and the knowledgeable experts to make it happen this would be the result. Upgraded with lower stiffer springs/shocks, sport clutch, momo corse steering wheel (original will be included along with a collection of miscellaneous spare parts). It performs as new – can be driven daily anywhere. The car was also just serviced – engine oil, gear box oil, valve adjustment, suspension greased and all else – has absolutely no needs. Three owners of this car since new and last two were here in US. Spare tire, jack, original tool kit and owners manual in excellent condition, two sets of original keys are also included.
The condition and history surrounding this 126P make it one-of-a-kind and the only one in the US. The 126 is a significantly superior model than the 500 in every aspect. This particular example is in a different league both cosmetically and mechanically that any other Fiat of this type and vintage out there. The impression of seeing and driving in person will surpass all expectations (especially for those who know these cars well and have been around them).
It is an opportunity to own a one of one item and truly something that no one else has regardless of how extensive their collection may be.