1978 Fiat

Convertible

4 - Cyl.

Manual

124CS10130783

Gasoline

You are bidding on a one-owner Italian racing red Fiat convertible. Purchased in 1978 in Great Falls, MT, to replace an identical 1973 model we drove on our honeymoon in 1974 and sold when we were assigned to Alaska. To get an identical one, the dealer had to swap out the car with one in Colorado Springs, CO (see delivery driver comment below). This car has always been garaged, usually with the top down. The mileage works out to about 1600 miles per year. The car was treated with Ming rustproofing within the first 200 miles, so there is ABSOLUTELY NO RUST. It is a 49-state, non-catalyst car, so any type of fuel works (it really likes 100LL aviation gas, but regular unleaded is just fine). All maintenance has been performed by owner, on or before schedule. About 5 years ago, the car was involved in a minor sideswipe scrape on the driver side. While in the shop, all the accumulated parking lot dings and scratches were corrected, and the car repainted in the original color. Looks better than new now. Besides moving from Montana to California, then to Florida, all of the miles have been local pleasure excursions, in good weather. The top is original, and would only have to be replaced if the car is going to be used as a daily driver (interior seams attaching it to the bows are weakening). Otherwise, it is perfectly serviceable for those occasions when you get caught out in a downpour. The interior is all original. Minor cracking on driver seat, but no rips or open seams. There is a minor vinyl repair of the back of the passenger seat. Tiny cigarette burn on vinyl just under driver's vent window (caused by delivery driver -- yes, I took delivery anyway). Recent maintenance includes new ignition switch, 4 shock absorbers, complete brake service (rebuilt calipers, new discs, new pads), and cam timing belt replacement in July. Oil and filter changes are performed once each year. Other maintenance along the way includes normal wear items, plus replacing the brake proportioning valve, the brake booster unit, and stop light switch. A leaking accelerator pump diaphragm on the Weber carburetor was replaced about a year ago. Minor items I choose to live with: 1) The turn signal indicator light (double ended arrow on the speedometer) is intermittent. I've changed the bulb, and it works great until I put the instrument back in the dash - then it goes intermittent on me. Likely a ground issue, perhaps in the socket. 2) The transmission likes to pop out of 4th gear only, and only on deceleration. If you accelerate through the gears, you'll never notice it, and it is easily overcome by holding the gearshift in 4th when you decelerate. Correction will likely involve transmission disassembly and replacement of synchros and/or shift forks. Good points: 1) The engine pulls strongly all the way to redline, and uses zero oil; though this will never beat current hot rods, it is a satisfying ride, and always a head-turner. 2) This is a comfortable car; it is reasonably quiet, the heater works great, and it has a great ride. I think of it as a civilized MGB (which has Lucas electrics, is noisy, leaks badly, and rides like a coal cart IMHO). If you wanted a reasonably priced alternative to a Miata, this is your ticket. Parts and upport are readily available and downright cheap compared to other brands. Fiat, Lancia, and Alfa Romeo owners groups are active, and you will enjoy the cameraderie. Good luck on bidding on what has been one of the best, most fun cars I have ever owned. Note: If you are flying in to pick up the car, we are 5 minutes away from VPS - Valparaiso/Eglin AFB, and can pick you up.