Description
The Fiat 128 was a small family car manufactured by Fiat between 1969 and 1985 and was famous for being Fiat’s first front engine/front-wheel drive car, although the Autobianchi Primula, built between 1964 and 1970 was in fact Fiat’s first ‘real’ model with its innovative Dante Giacosa designed front-wheel drive, transverse engine layout.
Fiat built an entirely new factory in Rivalta, near Turin specifically to build the new 128 and it was styled similarly to the Fiat 124 and 125 and featured rack and pinion steering, front disc brakes, independent rear suspension with a transverse leaf spring and McPherson strut front suspension with an integral anti-roll bar. The car was only available with a 1,116 cc engine on launch, but a 1,290 cc unit was introduced on some models from 1971. It was named European Car of the Year in 1970 and over three million were manufactured. It was widely publicised that Enzo Ferrari drove a 128 as his own personal car!
This wonderful 128 was built in Turin in the summer of 1973, and since has clearly been cared for over the years. A rust-free example, the little Fiat has recently enjoyed a repaint and now looks resplendent in white with a contrasting red interior. The interior in particular is very original and presents well, the peppy 1,116cc engine performs eagerly and the gearbox changes smoothly. The chrome work is said to be very good, and the car wears its original steel wheels with chrome hub caps and new tyres. A hugely enjoyable starter classic which we’re sure will provide many miles of fun for its lucky next owner.
