Highlights
・Original condition
・Increasingly sought-after Bertone model
・Removable hardtop for those sunny days
The Background
The Fiat X1/9 is a two-seater designed by Bertone and manufactured by Fiat from 1972-1982. Bertone subsequently took the lead from 1982-1989 and, in 1982, shortly after the introduction of the 1500 model, complete production was assumed by Bertone with models from this point forward badged as the Bertone X1/9.
With a transverse engine and gearbox in a mid-mounted, rear-wheel drive configuration, the X1/9 was noted for its excellent handling and lightweight, removable hardtop.
The later Bertone models also featured the more powerful 1500cc engine.
The History
The current owner has enjoyed owning and driving the X1/9 for the past 7 years, always garaged and used sparingly but regularly throughout.
The car was rust-proofed when new and the service history and receipts from the previous and current owner indicate that the car has had considerable remedial works done over the years to keep it running correctly.
A mechanic has carried out regular servicing and oil changes.
The Paperwork
The V5 is present showing 3 previous owners and there are numerous MOT’s and receipts for repairs and servicing done by the present and previous keeper.
The car comes with one set of keys and the current MOT expires April 2022.
The Interior
The interior looks good for the car’s age. The red leather seats and steering wheel could probably do with some professional cleaning and renovation to bring them back to life.
There is an aftermarket stereo unit fitted which the owner reports as not working.
The door trims, dashboard and instruments are all in good shape and work perfectly as do all the switchgear.
The original carpet is showing signs of use and wear.
There is a replacement leather gear gaiter included with the car and the original wheel centres are in the glove box. These however are starting to perish with age and have lost their mounting clips.
The electric window on the passenger works as it should but the drivers side falls fine but raises very slowly, so this may need some attention.
The spare wheel, housed behind the driver’s seat looks like the original from the factory.
The Exterior
The silver paintwork is in reasonable overall condition but there are signs of rust on the sills.
There are several small paint imperfections to be found, there is some bubbling of the paint here and there, a few surface scratches and scuffs, and the bonnet has a few off-colour spots where something corrosive has reacted with the paint.
The wheels all look good and have recently been fitted with new tyres.
The removable roof panel is easy to remove and stow in the front boot and makes a good watertight seal when refitted.
The lights are all good as are the badges and other black trims that adorn the bodywork. The bumpers appear to show some discolouration and some of the rubber beginning to lift. The pop-up headlights work perfectly too.
There is a bit of surface rust in the rear boot - it should be noted however this panel is not part of the chassis and will bolt off for painting / replacement.
The original rust protection on the panels is still in place and the rear boot footwells have been rust proofed.
All exterior lighting and glass are in good condition, as are the seals, with no evidence of water leaks.
The Mechanics
Although the car has covered only around 3,000 miles over the last 10 years it has been regularly driven and had any fault promptly dealt with.
It has had a recent tune-up and service, and a top-end rebuild in 2019. Brakes, electrics, and cooling have all had a good overhaul and the timing belt has also been changed.
Some rough running has been sorted out and the owner reports that it starts easily and drives as it should.
The Appeal
Go kart style handling, sharp Italian styled looks, a real miniature supercar, the X1/9 represents a great buy. It’s unusual, great value and running costs are manageable too.
This Fiat X1/9 is pretty much in original condition with a low and documented mileage and, although it does need some tidying up in places, overall, it’s a very nice and honest example of this stylish Italian classic.
Notice to bidders
Notice to bidders
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