1976 Polski Fiat 125p Pickup

Here's something you don't see everyday: a Polish built pickup truck based on Fiat mechanicals. Built from 1967 through 1991 by FSO under license, the Polski Fiat 125p was derived from the Fiat 1300/1500 line. It took almost two years to modernize the production facilities, and in the first production year, only 75 cars were produced. A sedan, estate and this light duty pickup truck see here were offered. This pickup for sale in Minnesota is the lone survivor brought to the US in an attempt to federalize these vehicles for sale.

1976 Polski Fiat 125p Pickup

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1976 Polski Fiat 125p Pick-Up Truck. The Sole Surviving DOT-Approved Model in the USA.

In 1975, aiming to extend their sales network beyond Europe, FSO (Fabryka Samochodów Osobowych) officially exported three Polski Fiat 125P vehicles to the USA: a sedan, a station wagon, and this pick-up. These three vehicles were sent over to be modified to conform to American DOT and EPA standards, so that type approval could be granted and durability testing done in American conditions. Any modifications were done primarily in the USA, by Olson Engineering in Fullerton, California. San Francisco super-dealer (and super-enthusiast!) Martin Swig was the primary mover and shaker of the project on this side of the Atlantic, but in the end he and FSO were incompatible partners and the deal fell apart. This unique American-spec 125P Pick-Up that you see here is the sole survivor of the three, having full DOT and EPA approval.

At one time, as many as a dozen 125p sedans or wagons were in the US, used by Polish diplomats at embassies or the UN; all long gone. Of the three cars officially exported by the factory to the US, one was reputedly crash-tested into a barrier. The other did not end up fully conforming to US safety and pollution codes before its 90-day federal waiver was up, and it was subsequently scrapped (as required by law at the time), making this pick-up absolutely unique.

This Polski Fiat is a genuine low-mileage collectible, with almost entirely original parts and trim. The odo stopped rolling at 20,029, but the owner is confident that the actual mileage is not much more than this (and going by the overall condition, and the fact that the original tires were replaced because of weather checking, rather than tread wear, this seems very realistic). The body was repainted in a slightly brighter hue than the original green. The owner has done fluid changes, cleaned the fuel tank, and added an electric fuel pump. Rear brakes were rebuilt too. The interior is 100% original. The seat covers are torn, and need to be replaced, but there are decent looking slip covers in place. The interior is otherwise in good shape for its age. The owner even has one of the original Polish “Stomil” tires as a spare, and original Polish filters in boxes.

The body and frame are clean and solid, except for the floors, which have perforations and could use new panels welded in. Otherwise, the wheel arches, fender wells, valance panels, outer sills, sub-floor below the pick-up bed, and corners and crevices underneath are impressively clean and solid. Even behind the bumpers is clean and nice. Body is straight, with a few minor dings and small dents. Panel fit is decent, although the passenger side door needs adjustment at the hinges to fit better. This door also has a cracked window, which is still solid and rolls up and down without issues. Chrome bits show some light pitting on a few pieces. One tail-light is cracked. The bumpers are undented, although the he front one is slightly askew. No major defects or accident damage are evident. Amazingly, the cargo bed remains un-dented, and the tailgate nearly so, showing no signs of hard use. Under the hood, most everything is in its place and tidy looking. At the curb, the overall impression is quite good, being that of a nicely preserved original rather than a sterile museum piece. It can be presented anywhere with pride.

What is a POLSKI Fiat, anyway?
FSO built Fiats under license in Poland for many decades, crafting over a million Polski Fiats of various models, and many more Fiat-based Polonez cars. In Europe, Fiat sold a “de-luxe” version of the basic 124 sedan, called the Fiat 125. FSO tended to tailor their Fiats for Polish conditions, and their version, the 125p (“p” for “Polish”!), used the push-rod engine from the old 1500 and four-speed transmission, instead of the twin-cam and five-speed of the Italian home-market 125 (and most US 124s). Confused? It’s pretty simple, really: This is a Fiat 125 sedan, factory redesigned into a pick-up truck, using the engine and transmission from the old 1500 Spider sold in the US in the 1960s, and built entirely in Poland with love!

This Vehicle and its History were featured last year in a cover-story by the excellent Polish magazine Classicauto (Issue #58, Lipiec 2012). All Polski Fiats are becoming rarer. The pick-up trucks in particular: There were fewer of them built, and they tended to get bashed to death as beasts of burden, making them quite scarce today. Finding one in this condition is nearly impossible, which is one reason that news of this little pick-up created enough of a stir in Poland to merit a six-page magazine feature.

I’m happy to send an English translation of the original magazine story to anyone interested enough to ask (leave a note with your email address). It tells a more complete story of this individual machine and also the adventures of trying to sell Polski Fiats in America back in the 70s.

Can I Get Parts?
Tune-ups and maintenance can use standard, inexpensive Fiat parts. Major components are all related to Italian Fiat, but built in Poland. Example: The “Polmo” dual-throat carburetor looks like a Weber built under license (34DCMP). Body panels and glass from the doors forward are standard Fiat pressings, etc.

One idea bounced around for this machine is to transplant the 1500 pushrod drivetrain to a deserving Fiat 1200/1500 Spider (or 1500 Ghia coupe!), and to drop-in a “regular” Fiat twin-cam engine, five-speed trans, and rear axle with disc brakes and Cromodora wheels for a really super-sporty sleeper. We’re told these are common hot-rod mods in Poland, and very straightforward changes. In fact Polski Fiat 125p sedans were rallied extensively in Europe with these features. Of course, this would forever alter this little truck’s originality and its unique place in history...But it’s a free country: The new owner will have these options to mull over.

This vehicle will be sold with a very rare English language, hardcover, official factory workshop manual. It covers every facet of the vehicle, and is in clean and perfect condition. Also included will be several plastic bins of extra parts (detailed below).

Can I Drive it Home?
It runs and drives, but it hasn’t been driven much in decades. The furthest the owner has driven it in recent years is a 30 mile round-trip to a car show in 2010. The motor starts quickly and idles without stalling. We were unable to find first or second gear without first shutting off the motor and then using a concerted effort to slot it in…Third, fourth and reverse presented no problems. Our opinion is that this could mean the clutch slave needs bleeding or fine adjustment, or the shift forks could be bent or need fiddling with. Otherwise, the truck ran nicely for us, before becoming progressively rougher due to a clogging fuel filter. With a fresh fuel filter, the little Polski felt eager and fun, with nice steering and firm secure brakes.

So, can you drive it home? As it sits today, we wouldn't try. Long-term storage hasn't done the little truck any favors, and although we believe it is essentially mechanically sound, right now it is better suited for a trip around the block than a trip across town. Bring a trailer. In all honesty, the next owner will have to be ready to sweat the details to get this little truck whipped into shape to be a daily driver. There shouldn't be any major hurdles: Lining the gas tank and getting the shifter sorted will work wonders.

The seller said this vehicle was appraised at $7,500, but there is no mention of who conducted the appraisal. While it is rare in the US, does that equate to high value? Time will tell in this auction, as there is a reserve and this car does need some mechanical attention. It's a truck like this, however, that has me pining for a manufacturer to bring a modern compact pickup back to the US market. Even the smallest of pickups on the market currently are much larger than the Volkswagen Caddys and Ford Rangers of yore. Anybody out there listening?

-Paul

1987 Lancia Delta Integrale HF 2.0 16V Turbo

With each passing year, a handful of cars forbidden to US enthusiasts become available due to the 25 year importation regulations set by the Department of Transportation, or, as I like to refer to the agency, the No Fun Club. As time goes on, we're seeing some interesting cars find their way to these shores. This Lancia Delta Integrale for sale in Toronto is calling the name of any American who ever dreamed of putting a six time World Rally Champion in their stable.

1987 Lancia Delta Integrale HF 2.0 16V Turbo

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1987 Lancia Delta Integrale HF 2.0 16V Turbo with 30,800 original miles or 52,000 original km. Yes, “time capsule” with thirty thousand original miles or fifty two thoiusand original km since new! USA legal, titled as a 1987 Lancia Delta. It is more than 25 years old and is exempt from all EPA/DOT regulations and I have a clear Ontario title in my name. Six time World Rally Champion! Do I need to say more? If you ever wanted the greatest rally car of all time, here is your opportunity. This is from my private collection. You will never find such a low mileage, unmolested 2.0 16V Turbo HF anywhere! Here are some highlights:

-30,800 original miles/52,000 original km
-Stunning original paint!
-Absolutely no rust anywhere!
-Body is perfectly straight – never in any accidents or collision whatsoever!
-Fully serviced and can be driven anywhere as all systems work as they should!
-Stunning original interior, dash, carpets, floor mats, etc!
-Perfect crack-free original dash!
-Unused original spare tire, toolkit, compressor, etc!
-Stunning original car!

I stake my 100% positive feedback on the Integrale – it is stunning! Needs absolutely nothing and is ready to be enjoyed!

MOTOR:

-2.0 4-cylinder 16V intercooled turbo
-Full major service just done as follows:
-10W60 Lubro Moly Synthetic Oil
-New oil filter
-New NGK spark plugs
-New red silicone 8 MM wire set
-New distributor cap
-New ignition rotor
-New fuel filter
-No smoke, no leaks, no stories – runs like the day it left the factory!

UPGRADES:

-Short shifter by Delta Motorsports
-Air intake system
-Adjustable suspension
-Lowered springs
-Stainless steel brake hoses
-Grooved brake rotors
-Yellow urethane bushings
-15" OZ Racing wheels
-205/50 15 Pirelli P700Z tires
-Wicked stereo system with twin amps, subwoofers, etc. The stereo system alone is $3,000!
-I have the all original parts as well as the original factor wheels, so you get two sets!

TRANSMISSION:

-5-speed standard transmission
-The transmission and clutch are LIKE BRAND NEW - shifts perfectly in every gear!

Almost $23,000 is a big ask for what is essentially a 25 year old Italian subcompact, but, those who view it that way are missing the point. Consider the recent surge in prices of the E30 BMW M3, another competition marvel of the day. Suddenly this Lancia begins to seem reasonable. These are fast, capable machines that foreshadow Subaru's dominance in WRC and subsequent sales success with the Impreza WRX. With more Integrales finding their way to these shores, parts and service support will no doubt grow, making it just a bit easier to own one of these legendary rally machines.

-Paul

1967 Lancia Flaminia Zagato Super Sport

Best known for their wonderfully engineered small cars in the 1960s, Lancia's flagship at the time, the Flaminia, tends to be overshadowed a bit by its smaller siblings. These were impressive cars for the time. Introduced in 1957 as a replacement for the Aurelia, the Flaminia was available in a variety of flavors with styling by a number of coach builders in differing body styles. This Zagato Super Sport was powered by a 2.8 liter V6 with triple carburetors and was strictly a two seater, with a unique pass through panel into the trunk. For sale in Ontario, Canada, this Super Sport has been restored and is a stunning example of rather restrained styling from the house of Zagato.

1967 Lancia Flaminia Zagato Super Sport on eBay

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Designed by Vittoro Jano the Flaminia continued the tradition of being named after Roman roads and the namesake Flaminia road leads from Rome to Rimini. It was one of the first production cars to ever be fitted with a V6 engine. In total, there were only about 110 of these cars ever built. The ultimate configuration for Lancia was the Zagato model with double bubble roof, 3 carbs set-up, and tear drop headlight and was produced from 1957 through 1970. Zagato produced the Sport two-seater body styles which were by far the most rare due to their higher manufacturing costs, in part because the bodies were created from aluminum with the trademark Zagato 'double bubble' and the pop-out handles.

This stunning Zagato body coupe is finished in its correct color of Newmarket Grey with red leather interior. After spending some time during the 1970’s in the state of California, this car was purchased by a large collector who loved the car so much that he retained it for almost 31 years. It spent that time in a fully climate controlled environment and was used enough to be exercised and meticulously maintained both mechanically and cosmetically. To this day, slide into the subtle red leather bucket seats which comfortably hold you in place, the drivers door closes with a solid feel, a twist of the key and the triple carb’d 2.8L V6 comes to life. It has a feel that can only come from a special car and garners looks and adoration wherever shown. Over the last 3 decades of single family ownership, it was seldom put on display at all until 2009 when it made its first appearance at a public event, the 30th Anniversary Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance. This is a truly special automobile. From the triple carb V6, to the famous double bubble roof and tear drop headlights; it is a car which has only recently started to get the attention it deserves from collectors. The aluminum Zagato body cars were a rare sight even in 1967 due to their high costs, which makes them that much more unique today and the type of automobile that can always be looked upon as a work of art. This example is a beautifully restored car, equally at home on the show field or driving the twisty coastal highways.

With only 150 Super Sports ever made, these coupes are a very rare sight with a collectibility factor similar to many Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Maseratis of the period. As such, these are not cheap cars to restore and even less so to own. The last Super Sport we featured was offered at over a quarter million dollars. This example which appears unblemished and ready to enjoy is priced right in the middle of the market and given the right audience, should find a buyer in short order.

-Paul

2003 Maserati Coupe GT

It's been ten years since Maserati returned to the US market. It was with this car, the Coupe GT, that they broke into what would become their largest market worldwide. These new cars with their Ferrari derived V8 engines went a long way towards erasing bad memories of the Biturbo from the 1980s and brought Italian car ownership closer to the mainstream in the US once again. This Coupe GT for sale in Chicago has the desirable 6-speed manual transmission in place of the Cambiocorsa paddle shift gearbox.

2003 Maserati Coupe GT on eBay

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Little in the way of a description is given by the seller, which is unfortunate when it comes to high end Italian exotics. As noted by a few of our readers, with these kind of cars, it's paramount to have a full and detailed description when it comes to service and repairs with a vehicle of this caliber. The asking price of just under $27,000 is right on point with current market values. While the metallic gray paintwork isn't the most eye catching color for the Coupe GT, it could be just the ticket for those seeking incognito high performance motoring.

-Paul

1973 Fiat 130 Coupe

The 1973 Fiat 130 Coupe we featured a few weeks ago is back up for sale and the seller has lowered the price by over $5,000, increasing bidding interest in this rare, luxurious two door.

1973 Fiat 130 Coupe

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Up for sale this rare find, this is a 1973 Fiat Pininfarina 130 Coupe, upon research we have found that the Fiat 130 Coupe was never sold new in the United States, and very few that reside stateside. It is a shame this car lives in relative obscurity, as it was an award winning design with a 3.2 liter V6 developed by Ferrari engineer Aurelio Lampredi. Most 130 coupes featured a Borg-Warner 3 speed automatic, but this one is a 5-speed manual was available, current owner owns both auto and this fabulous 5 speed. Four wheel disc brakes and four wheel independent suspension rounded out the package. This example for sale in our showroom located in Miami and is finished in blue with cream leather interior that is nothin short of like new condition, if you collect rare European cars this is a must and a quite a popular look for the 1970s.

It's apparent the seller is motivated to move this car with this recent price reduction, but will it be enough to garner interest amongst the Fiat and Italian car faithful? Those in the market for a 130 Coupe have few options on US shores and this 5-speed coupe is certainly a mint example. I still believe the asking price is about $5,000 to $7,000 too dear, but in a little less than a week, we'll see where the final bid settles.

-Paul

1995 Ferrari 456GT

When you hear the name Ferrari, images of sleek sports cars and racing victories fill the mind. We often forget that this company has also produced some of the finest GT cars to hit the road. Case in point this 456GT. Seldom seen on the roads today, this was a handsome coupe with powerful 5.5 liter V12 backed by a six-speed manual or four speed automatic. This 456GT for sale in Miami is a low mileage example of the touring Ferrari breed that looks stealthy in black.

1995 Ferrari 456GT

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This 1995 Ferrari 456GT. Finished Black With Beige Leather Interior. Driven Only 20,195 Documented Miles. Meticulously Maintained, Cared And Serviced Since New. Major Service Performed On June 2012 With Service Records Available. Fitted With All Standard And Special Options As Follows: Electrically Operated Front Seats, 17" Alloy Wheels, Original Manuals, Its As Good As It Gets!

Prices for these Ferraris have fallen to a point where they are affordable to more enthusiasts, but, of course, that doesn't mean the expensive maintenance has gone away. This car's asking price represents the top end of 456GT values these days. With a recent service and low mileage, however, it does reassure potential buyers by presenting some redeeming value. Given the nature of the beast, some might prefer this car with the automatic transmission, but for me, the six-speed gearbox suits me just fine. It may not have the edgy character of the later F550 Maranello, but this Ferrari is sublime and could still rip your face off if you put your foot in it.

-Paul

1976 Fiat 126P

Following up the act that was the original Fiat 500 was never going to be an easy task. Using the same rear-engined mechanicals wrapped in a new body shell, the 126 brought supermini styling more in line with the rest of Fiat's lineup at the time. One year after its introduction in 1972, Fiat licensed the 126 to be built in Poland by FSM. The car was dubbed the 126P to differentiate it from the Italian built 126 and was the first vehicle available on a mass scale in the Polish People's Republic. Like the Trabant in East Germany, some customers waited years before taking delivery. This 126P for sale in New York represents a rare chance to procure and Italian supermini with Eastern European ties.

1976 Fiat 126P

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1976 Fiat 126P Ginster Yellow (factory Fiat color) with black interior, 42,138 original kilometers (26,336 miles), 4 speed manual. Brought back to "new" condition at 36,493 kilometers in 2007 using original Fiat parts/panels and anything that was needed. This car was built as an art project personally by Wlodek Pawluczuk (5 time Polish rally champion). It is period correct with all original tasteful details available on the 126 line such as roof antenna, rear fog and reverse light, all chrome exterior pieces, pop out rear windows, factory wide wheels, left and right mirrors, mud flaps, factory seat belts, H4 headlights with city/parking lights, tinted windshield and original radio.

If one wanted a new Fiat 126p had unlimited resources and the knowledgeable expert to make it happen this would be the result. Every component that could be replaced was - both mechanical and cosmetic. Upgraded with a momo corse steering wheel (original will be included along with a collection of miscelanious spare parts). It performs as new - can be driven daily anywhere. I am the third owner of the car since new and second owner in the US. Spare tire, jack, original tool kit and owners manual present and excellent. I have over 40 high resolution photographs including detailed undercarriage shots. It recently won the chairman's choice award at the 40th Annual Polish Herritage Festival. The condition and history surrounding this 126 make it the only one of its kind in the States. The finest Fiat 126 in the U.S. and one of the best 1976's in the world.

Clean Fiat 500 Cinquecentos are bringing between $10,000 to $15,000 these days. The 126 is a relatively unknown commodity on US shores, so it's uncertain whether this 126, essentially a more modern looking 500, will bring the same kind of money. Essentially a restored machine, this 126 is impressive, but the best 126s can be had for under $5,000 all over Europe. While the bidding is strong, we're looking at serious money for some Communist nostalgia.

-Paul

1997 Fiat Barchetta

Last month we featured a 1996 Fiat Barchetta for sale in Pennsylvania and now this week, another Barchetta has come up for sale in my backyard. These roadsters, based on Fiat Punto mechanicals, were never sold new in the US, but a few have found their way stateside over the years. While they lack the rear-drive balance that a Mazda Miata offers, these Italian roadsters offer a greater amount of style. This Barchetta is for sale outside of Washington, DC and has a clear Virginia title.

1997 Fiat Barchetta

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This auction is for a 1997 Fiat Barchetta finished in Grigio Steel (Steel Grey Metallic) with a black interior and black convertible top. The actual VIN is ZFA18300000031604, which the eBay listing form didn’t recognize. The car has very low mileage, just 59,000 kilometers which is only about 36,000 miles. The Barchetta is the modern interpretation of Fiat’s 850 Spider of the 60’s and 70’s. It’s styling mimics the 850’s clean lines, short front and rear overhangs, and most significantly, how the top folds down and stores under a hinged metal panel behind the seats. This gives the back of the car a completely smooth appearance unlike most other drop top cars that have the folded down top covered with a vinyl top boot that’s most often an unsightly protrusion. The Barchetta’s totally hidden folded top is a feature only found on much more upscale convertibles even now, and virtually none others back then. It was a styling and engineering masterpiece that enhanced the beauty of the car while at he same time made it practical too. At any stop light, in just about 30 seconds, the top can be dropped and the car ready to drive, while owners of other convertibles after 30 seconds were still by the trunk unfolding the top boot from it’s storage bag. The Barchetta is in the same class as the Miata, but being front wheel drive, is more usable in winter climates (Canadians take notice). There probably isn’t more than 2 or 3 other Barchettas in the USA and maybe a handful in Canada, so if you want a rare Italian sports car that nobody else has, this is it. And you don’t have to spend six figures on a Ferrari or Lamborghini to get just as many looks either.

The Barchetta, which in Italian means, “small boat” was produced from 1995 to 2005. It shares mechanical components with numerous late model Fiats as well as Alfa Romeo and Lancia so spare parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Many routine maintenance items such as filters, spark plugs and belts are available and stocked on the shelf at parts stores in the USA or Canada as well as by internet retailers. More specific parts can be ordered and received in less than a week from RockAuto’s international site or from on-line parts stores in England such as Mister-Auto, Fiat dealers in the UK, and the auto parts section on Ebaymotors UK.

The Barchetta is powered by a 130 horsepower 1.8 liter 16-valve DOHC engine that is also found in countless other Fiats and Alfas. This engine has received excellent reviews by engineers and the automotive press for its high power output, good economy and inherent smoothness. It features a cast iron engine block for maximum durability and an aluminum cylinder head for light weight and excellent heat dissipation, dual overhead cams with variable intake valve timing for maximum power output at all engine speeds, hydraulic lifters for reduced maintenance, multiport fuel injection for excellent gas mileage, and distributorless coil on plug (COP) ignition for reliability in all environmental conditions. For anyone that has owned or worked on twin cam Fiats and Alfas of the past, you will instantly recognize the layout of this engine. But if you enjoy turning a wrench, you may be a bit disappointed, as the car is now actually reliable requiring very little service, and it now starts right up regardless of the weather or the temperature outside. Oh what a difference a decade or two makes.

The engine is mated to a smooth shifting 5-speed manual transmission. This transaxle setup has a low first gear that provides brisk acceleration while the overdrive top gear allows for effortless highway cruising and excellent fuel economy figures near 40 mpg. The clutch action and shifter feel are the best in its class. The short-throw 5-speed stick is buttery smooth and lets you flick off shifts with speed and precision and the clutch is feather light for tireless hours inside the cockpit. Rounding out the Barchetta is a suspension made to carve up twisting roads and brakes to handle any situation. Start off with a light curb weight of just 2,300 pounds and a chassis much stiffer than most other open cars. Add in a MacPherson strut front suspension with a solid anti-roll bar up front and trailing arms in the back, power rack and pinion steering and a set of 55 series low profile tires. Finish it off with power four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated rotors in the front), and a Bosch anti-lock system plus a set of lightweight aluminum wheels and you have a car that is blast to drive whether on a winding country road, a quick trip to the supermarket, or just the daily commute.

The Barchetta was designed in-house by Fiat Centro Stile, one of the main automobile design centers in Turin. Its exterior styling subtly recreates the essence of the 850 Spider of the past, while adding modern and unique elements of the present and future. It features clean lines and sleek curves that incorporate elements from premium European sports cars and looks handsome from any angle without being flashy. It has a monochromatic paint scheme with body color bumpers and mirrors, silver wheels, and satin aluminum door handles, all of which contribute to a solid look. A quick walk around the car will reveal its similarities to the 850, as well as the modern touches that set it apart. Up front the bumper gently slopes down and rearward for better aerodynamics like the 850’s front shape did, plus it now has a pair of integrated high intensity fog lights for improved visibility in bad weather. The frog-eye look of the 850 has given way to covered headlights that also improve airflow and look great. Out back the short deck lid and convertible top cover appear to be direct descendants of the 850 while the square taillights add visual interest. Rear fog lights and a chrome exhaust pipe add finishing touches. The last thing you notice before entering the car are the door handles. As one automotive journalist wrote, “The museum of modern art doesn’t have anything as stylish as the door handles on a Barchetta.” A thin blade flush with the door panel and a small button make up the mechanism. Press the button, out pops the handle, pull the handle to open the door. Very chic.

If you like what you see on the outside, the interior is also sure to please. Get in and sit down in a sport bucket seat that confirms to the perfect driving position with adjustments for recline and lumbar support. Then set the tilt steering wheel to achieve complete driving control. Now glance above you at the generous amount of available headroom with the top up. Next, look ahead at the dashboard with the race bred whiteface gauges in the instrument cluster and how easy they are to read at a glance. Look to the right at the center stack and how all the control knobs and buttons are just a fingertip away without altering your driving position. Change the radio station, lower the power windows or adjust the power mirrors without having to lean over to reach a button. Finally, look down at the seats and feel the grippy texture of the weave, while imagining how tightly it will hold you in your seat during sharp cornering, then look at the floor covering, a durable vinyl material with a rich looking dimpled texture that’s also very easy to clean. Not only is the styling all sport, but all the textures have a rich feel and look and all the switchgear have a precise soft touch action. From the grip of the steering wheel, the graining pattern on the dash and door panels, or the layout of the knobs and switches on the dash, everything looks and feels like it came from a more expensive car. Now place the key in the ignition and turn the engine on. You hear a light but unobtrusive growl and are surprised how smooth it idles. Next, take it for a spin. Whether on congested city streets, open highways, or twisting mountain roads, you will be amazed how smooth, quick and powerful the Barchetta drives.

The car is in great condition inside and out. It has a beautiful dent-free body with just the normal minor nicks and dings you would expect on a 15 year old car. The finish is also very nice and shiny and this shade of metallic silver just about glows in the sunlight. The only blemish to note is around the front bumper at the left below the headlight where it was painted at some point and blend isn’t invisible. It doesn’t really stand out from ten feet away, just when seen close up. The paint itself has been cleaned with Meguiar’s Smooth Surface Clay System, polished with Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze cleaner polish and topped off with Meguiar’s Ultimate synthetic wax for a high gloss shine. Even both the front and also the back sides of the wheels have been cleaned and waxed! How obsessed is that? Ditto for the chrome exhaust tip. The soft top is in great shape without any rips or tears and the visibility through the rear window is excellent with none of the clouding that many clear plastic backlights have.
The interior is in great condition as well. It has excellent upholstery, dashboard and door panels with no cracks, rips or tears or any significant signs of wear. The car doesn‘t have any smokers smell. In fact, you wouldn’t imagine a 15 year old vehicle would still have that “new car smell,” but this Barchetta still has that indescribable plasticy aroma of a new European car of years ago. Maybe because we are accustomed to driving in fully carpeted and upholstered vehicles with a sterile aroma that this Barchetta seems to stand out. If you’ve ever traveled in Europe and rented an economy car, you would understand what I’m saying. The trunk looks like it was hardly ever used and the engine compartment has been fully detailed and is clean enough to eat off of.

Mechanically it runs and drives excellent. The engine runs strong and feels smooth both at idle, while accelerating and throughout the cruising range. The engine starts instantly whether hot or cold. The steering wheel is on dead center going down the road with no shakes or vibrations at speed, the brakes are firm with no pedal pulsations or pulling to one side when stopping and the suspension is tight. It has a new set of four Goodyear Eagle tires size 195/55R15 that feature carbon fiber ResponseEdge technology and a long 440 treadwear rating, plus A ratings for traction and temperature. These tires combine a high performance yet very quiet directional tread design, M+S designation for exceptional all-season wet/dry traction, excellent handling and long tread life with a 50,000 mile limited warranty. They have been balanced with coated stick-on balance weights mounted on the inside of the wheel for a super clean look. These weights won’t corrode and turn ugly like cheap uncoated weights. The spare tire and jack doesn’t look like they have ever been used. The only mechanical issues are the radio doesn’t function because it’s asking for the security code which I don’t have. I don’t speak any Italian and when I called a few Fiat dealers in Rome, they didn’t speak any English. If you do speak Italian you may be able to get the code. The other item to mention is that sometimes when coming to a stop if you take your foot off the accelerator quickly, the RPM’s will drop down below idle speed and stall the engine. It may not happen at all one week and then it may happen 2 or 3 times the next time you drive it. Sounds like it may be a vacuum leak from a loose or cracked vacuum hose or just a little carbon on the valves from being driven infrequently during the last year or two. Probably nothing that a good old Italian tune-up wouldn’t fix.

The car has been fully checked out and serviced including over $2,600 worth of new or recent parts and maintenance with original Fiat or other name brand parts so that only your enjoyment rather than your immediate attention will be required after purchase. Some of the items checked or serviced include:

New Mobil 1 oil change
New Fiat oil filter
Recent Fiat air filter
New Hengst fuel filter
New throttle body cleaning
New Fiat spark plugs
New Bosch premium 84 month battery with 3 year free replacement and jump starts
New Fiat timing belt
New Fiat timing belt tensioner
New Fiat idler pulley
New Fiat water pump
New coolant flush with distilled water
New Honda Type 2 blue coolant change (closest coolant to Fiat Paraflu blue)
New Continental serpentine belt
New Redline MTL transmission fluid change
Recent Lucas front brake pads
New Brembo front brake rotors
New Brembo rear brake pads
Recent Fiat rear brake rotors
New parking brake adjustment
New Valvoline Synthetic DOT4 brake fluid flush and change
New Goodyear Eagle tires, set of four
New embroidered floor mats
New Italian front license plate with current sticker

No expense was spared to make the car as reliable and trouble free as reasonably possible, and more important to purists, to make it as authentically original as possible. It would have been cheaper, easier and quicker to use generic no-name parts. I could have saved a lot of time and money by using an off-brand timing belt kit and water pump instead of genuine Fiat, or off-brand brake components instead of Brembo pads and rotors, but like everything else, you get what you pay for and you can feel better about the car knowing name brand parts were used. Many parts that were still in good shape were replaced just for extra piece of mind. Rear brakes for example still had half their life left but were replaced anyway. The battery in the car was a new Interstate model but it didn’t seem appropriate in a Fiat, so I installed a Bosch battery, much more authentic for a European car, and the top of the line model with 3 years free replacement. So other than routine maintenance such as oil and filter changes, with all the above mentioned servicing the car has recently received, you should be good to go for another 15 years before requiring major maintenance.

If you’ve owned Italian cars in the past or have any right now, you know how temperamental they can be and how much time and money it can take to keep them on the road. Whether that reputation is deserved or not, it’s clear that the quality and reliability of Fiats has increased greatly over the years with the introduction of modern systems like electronic fuel injection, distributorless ignition and computer controlled engine components. You can feel just as confidant driving a Barchetta as you can a Miata, but you will be doing it with more style and exclusivity.

Overall this Barchetta is a beautiful car inside and out that looks great in this color. The finishing touch to the exterior is an Italian front license plate with a current date sticker. (Keep it on the car only at your discretion, I can’t be responsible for tickets if your state has a problem with it.) Also note the Roma parking decal in the windshield. On the interior there is a brand new pair of embroidered floor mats still in the wrapper. And the car comes with the blue and silver main key, a red dot duplicate key and an emergency wallet key just for the mechanical locks.

At nearly $7,000 less than the last Barchetta we featured, this car is much more realistically priced and the thorough description and list of maintenance items attended to should ensure confidence amongst potential buyers. I'm curious as to how this car was registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia, but the seller does provide a copy of the actual title in the auction listing. Even though they don't offer the same driving dynamics as a Miata, I've been smitten with the looks of the Barchetta for years. Given this car is for sale locally, I am trying to withhold the urge to give up the Cooper S for this.

-Paul

1982 Maserati Quattroporte

While the Biturbo brought a lot of negative press to the Maserati party during the 1980s, there was another model that flew under the radar: the third generation Quattroporte. It's Giugiaro penned lines aped a bit of the Maserati Kyalami and De Tomaso Longchamp, but on a grander scale. Available with a 4.1 or 4.9 liter V8, this luxury sedan offered impressive power in an era of engines strangled by emissions controls. With a plush leather to back up this power, this was a great long distance cruiser. Much like today's fifth generation Quattroporte, this car was the choice for executives wanting something just a bit more special than the usual run of the mill luxury sedan. This Quattroporte for sale in Louisiana looks handsome in brown with aftermarket wheels that aren't oversized and fit the character of the car.

1982 Maserati Quattroporte

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1982 Maserati Quattroporte, VIN ZAMBC1109CA302062 50,000 actual miles. Current owner for about three years. Car is sorted and all maintenance up to date, ready to enjoy. These are wonderful cruisers………..great on the highway. It is very reliable. Driven regularly. Honestly represented, best validated with personal inspection and drive. Complete documented mechanical refurbishing as listed below.

Engine: Engine is strong with no smoking or noise upon start up and excellent oil pressure. Excellent oil pressure, car starts and runs exceptionally well. Current timing chain adjustment. Valve cover gasket / half moon seal replacement, Mobil one synthetic 20 - 50. NEW proper radiator core with all new hoses and clamps. New thermo switch. New thermostat and seal, BMW factory antifreeze. All emissions removed, fans are now on custom wiring harness complete with relays and fuses, bypassing original fuse block. Both fans are wired to come on. Overflow reservoir re-located to stock euro position. New coil, dist cap, rotor, plugs and plug wires. Air filter, new high torque gear reduction starter. All under hood parts re-plated. Trans cooler hoses replaced. Bosch 120 amp (orig 75) alt and new regulator, recent Bosch battery, new A/C blows cold and holds charge. New a/c dryer and press switch, new valves on compressor head.

BRAKES: Rebuilt master cylinder with new reservoir ($$$). New front and rear flex lines, EBC red pads. Rear EBC pads. Backing plates and hardware nickel plated

SUSPENSION: New front poly A arm bushings, new ball joints, refinished control arms. New front and rear shock bushings.. New front wheel bearings and seals. New inner and outer rear wheel bearings with seals. New tie rods/boots. New updated steering column bushing. Rear wheel bearings and seals properly replaced. All parts detailed, New rear shock bushings.

EXHAUST: New Stebro stainless center exhaust sections, ANSA rear tips on good stock rear exhaust. New hangers.

Wheels/Tires: New alloys with Pirreli tires. 5th alloy wheel with new Pirrelli tires,original wheels included

MISC: New period Nakimichi cassette with properly installed hidden sony amp. Fuel tank removed and seals replaced, no rust. Custom installation of factory Maserati clock.

Very rare to have a pristine factory owners manual and pouch. Factory trouble light, Factory keys with pouches. Collection of factory printed material presented in custom embossed leather binder. Much more documented work in Excel spreadsheet.

DISCLOUSURE: Minor bubbles in lower door areas which have remained as such since my purchase. Undercarriage, floors, rockers excellent. Typical Italian gauges, but all work with some learned interpretation! Currently washer reservoir is cracked. Slight separation of stitched seam on upper portion of drivers seat, sort of hidden by seat belt.

Anywhere around the $10,000 mark seems to be the going rate for a Series 3 Quattroporte in good running and cosmetic order these days. Anything over that mark is reserved for low mileage, museum quality vehicles. The caveat here is that Maseratis from the 1980s, whether they are the oft maligned Biturbo or their bigger sibling that we see here, don’t have the inherent collectability factor that earlier and later vehicles wearing the Trident badge have. True, there are a lot of enthusiasts out there buying, running and restoring Maseratis from this period, but you have to really love these cars or buy them in top condition, as they are a losing battle when it comes to an investment. Still, the Series III Quattroporte does have presence in its own right and you certainly don't see one, especially in this condition, every day of the week.

-Paul

1986 Lancia Y10 Touring

We feature a broad range of vehicles here at CICFS, most of which are exotics. But the Italians have a way of bringing style to even the most basic of vehicles. While it doesn't have a lot of flair, the Lancia Y10 has a handsome, purposeful look to it. Its beauty is in its simplicity. As a child, I remember seeing these cars all over the streets of Portugal, as they appealed to folks wanting a little bit of luxury with their basic motoring formula. Sold under the Autobianchi nameplate in Italy, France and Japan, the Y10 had a ten year production run from 1985 through 1995.

This particular Y10 for sale in The Netherlands has only 21,000 miles on the clock. It is the Touring model, which has a 1.0 liter, 56 horsepower engine along with an Alcantara interior. All Y10s, save for a few special editions, had their tailgates painted black, lest anyone think this car had a rear end shunt.

1986 Lancia Y10 Touring

Nice and rare Lancia Y10. Car has got luxury alcantra seats and a 5 speed gearbox. The car has only done 35.000 km. Car has traces of use but it is well maintained. Interior is very nice. Engine runs well. Very rare Touring edition, there are only a few left all over the world of these. Tax free! Comes with original Lancia seat covers.

For just under $1,700 USD, this is one of the cheapest cars we've featured on this site. At this price, it would be attractive to ship this car stateside. While not as safe as some modern cars like the Fiat 500 and MINI Cooper, you'd certainly be the only one on the block with a car like this. Not only an economical proposition, this Y10 offers a bit more comfort than some of the superminis of its time and would be an instant conversation starter at the next Fiat Lancia Unlimited club meet.

-Paul