Used FIAT Cars for Sale near Lancaster, CA

I just had to have this car. I test drove an '83 model in '09 and fell in love with it, but the example I test drove needed more work than I could afford at the time. The next year, I purchased my '81 model which only really needed floor pans. I purchased the car from Midwest Bayless in Columbus, Ohio, and I strongly recommend them to anyone in the Midwest wanting to get into an X1/9 or any sort of FIAT in fact. Anywho, on to the review. The car is extremely responsive and the wheel is quite light, despite not having power steering. While not very quick in stock form in a straight line, the weight balance and chassis/suspension setup allows you to take corners at somewhat high speed. Add to that any upgrades to the engine or suspension, and it can be a very formidable sports car. If you are going to look at an X1/9, look for rust in the strut towers bubbling up, as well as the engine crossmember (from below). These cars have a very stiff chassis from stock (due to safety legislation that never ended up being passed) but low quality steel that is somewhat prone to rust can mean very time consuming repairs (like replacing the crossmember). Overall the X1/9 is easy to work on, but jobs like replacing master cylinders and brake lines are difficult due to compact packaging. If these jobs have been done recently on a used X1/9, count it as a major plus (I learned from experience these are not fun jobs) You might check for master cylinder leaks before buying as well. There are a few performance parts available, like cams, headers/exhausts, and carburetors. The later fuel injected models are generally better for reliability, but many run carburetors without issue. If you value handling over outright acceleration, the X1/9 is a must drive. I absolutely love mine and I can't think of too many cars I would get rid of my X1/9 for. I recommend you read my previous review (1983 model) for more information.

1974s had euro bumpers, a different rear end gear ratio, different cam timing, and Magnetti Marelli fuel injection. They were 250 lbs lighter than the next models and because of the well developed 12b SOHC engine and Magnetti Marelli electronics, very realiable. After 74 they got heavier, slower, and had god knows what kind of electrics. Some X1/9's even came with Lucas electrics in part. And those awful twin bar bumpers to satisfy DOT standards.........Horrible.

I've had mine for 11 years and the biggest problem I've had was a cracked overflow tank! It gets like 40 mpg and is fun to drive, especially in California with the top off! I've heard that they do have problems with overheating. Parts are fairly inexpensive but labor can be outrageous! The engine sits in it sideways making small repairs such as a tune up almost impossible.

This car is a blast to drive, if you have the personality for it. It's a little sluggish, with only a 1.5 liter putting out 75bhp (US spec). Handles like a jet fighter in the right hands. Forget Fix It Again Tony, think Fling It Around Turns. Very reliable. Build quality is typical 1980s Fiat: squeaky, rattly, poor fits. Design is top notch. Handles, Looks, and feels like a baby Ferrari. Gets 40mpg!

Love these cars. I've had two. The first was a street car eventually turned into the race car pictured. Pitiful engines stock, but fairly capable of being built up to respectable power. The chassis is just fantastic and the brake are terrific. The car is a bit heavy for its size.