Rusty But Trusty

For this double-Fiat feature, here’s another model I’ve always liked, and wanted even more since my only mid-engine car experience with a first-gen Toyota MR2. The X1/9 is pretty avant-garde for its time, looking more modern (to my eyes) than, say, my Alfetta GT. From a practical perspective, the “targa” bodystyle is great in a convertible in that you still get the wind in your hair without having the safety hazard of a standard roadster, or an ugly tack-on roll bar like my Spider has. Also, the handling on these cars is supposed to be amazing, and I’ve seen accessible power plant modifications to these including a Chrysler 2.2 turbo, Honda B16, and a Lancia Beta 2000. Unfortunately, unless you’re lucky enough to score a 1974 or 1975 model, you’ll have to smog your X, but you’ll forget about that when you’re listening to your Elton John 8-track with the wind blowing through your bald patch.

Anyway, our first of two X1/9s (a double-shot inside a two-fer?) is a dark red 1979 1500-powered version for $2500 in La Mesa, CA. This car seems to have rebuilt everything, including clutch and transmission, which along with its being in San Diego should avoid some of the major issues including rust and reverse gear failure. The paint and interior look clean, and if the maintenance records are good, this looks like a strong driver. You already have the benefit of 85 raw horsepower in this car, and as mentioned above, upgrades can start with a 1300 head and go from there.

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