When it came out in 1965, the Fiat 850 was recognized as one of the most successful designs of a 4-place compact sports coupe. From its raised headlights through the sloping roof, to the spoiler lip of the engine cover and quad tail lights copying and foreshadowing Ferrari designs (respectively), it had the true look of a sporting Italian car. Sadly, as a budget sports car, very few remain, and fewer still are in regular use. But this is where you, dear reader, come into play. Take the opportunity to get this 1970 Fiat 850 coupe, for sale in Oakland, CA for $3900, back on the road.
With only one photograph, the seller is hardly trying hard to earn his $3900 (or pacify his significant other). So let’s play a game of clues, and read what we can into the picture. It looks like the car was once pale blue, a nice color on these, and judging by where the paint shows up, it may only need exterior paint. The slotted wheels need to go – they look better on more butch cars than this. The rear wheels have significant camber – is the car up on jack stands? The seller says the engine is rebuilt and needs work on the carburetor, and then running in. Since it is unregistered, he won’t allow test drives. It’s said to have new tires, but they already look somewhat oxidized. With that wood block holding the car back, it’s apparently in need of repairs to the handbrake as well. That said, it’s still worth a look – the larger 903cc engine of the later cars and the arguably most successful second series design, plus its rarity, speak for themselves.
Rusty But Trusty 
December 4, 2013 at 4:12 pm |
He also mentioned $400 in ‘back fees’?!? $3900 is a pipe dream based on the info provided…