The X1/9 was Fiat’s Bertone-styled 2-seater mid-engined sports car developed from the 1969 Autobianchi A112 Runabout concept, manufactured by Fiat from 1972–1982. Marcello Gandini (of Lamborghini Countach fame) was the chief stylist on the project.
The X1/9 was originally powered by a 74bhp 1300cc version of the all new Lampredi designed Fiat 128 SOHC engine – this was later increased to 1500cc (84bhp). Although it was designed around the engine and transmission of the front wheel drive it 128, the X1/9 relocated the transverse drive train and assembly to the rear of the passenger cabin and directly in front of the rear axle. With fuel tank and spare wheel were located between the passenger seats and the engine bay providing excellent balance and handling.
The X1/9’s wedge shape targa-top design with its pop-up headlights was arguably the prettiest mass-market sports car of its generation. The car still looks fresh today especially when compared to the ungainly Triumph TR7. The removable targa hardtop could be stored in the front boot with a second luggage compartment at the rear of the car.
The X1/9 was originally conceived as a replacement for the Fiat 850 spider but in the end straddled a position that covered the Fiat 850 and the Fiat 124 Sport Spider. The Fiat 124 Sport Spider however was a far more powerful car which in its 1800cc 16V Abarth version was a world beating rally car.
Dynamically the car was wonderful. It received highly positive reviews for its handling, balance and agility thanks to its mid-engine configuration. However, it could have been so much more and probably the main reason was down to positioning with the Fiat Groups model range after taking over Lancia in 1969. In 1975, the group launched the 118bhp 2.0L Lancia Beta Montecarlo as a replacement for the Fiat 124 Sport Coupe & Spider – in a way stifling the X1/9s true potential.
In a way, Fiat restricted the success of both cars. Then Montecarlo was originally called X1/8 and conceived with a 3 litre V6 engine. Imagine a line up where the Montecarlo had 200 bhp and the X1/9 had 125bhp. Not inconceivable and both achievable. A number of Montecarlo owners have modified their carts and fitted the Alfa Romeo 2.5 and 3.0 V6 Busso engines. And…not to be outdone, we at GT Vox have fitted a Fiat 1.4 Turbo engine to our Fiat X1/9…more on this in a future report…stay tuned.
The potential success or improvement of the Fiat X1/9 is to a like many cars of the 70s and early 80s, it had its strengths and weaknesses.
Improvements could have been made in several areas:
- Performance: As mentioned, enhancements to the engine and drivetrain could have improved overall performance. This might include improved transmissions or better suspension systems but frankly the whole the car is very agile and needs little additional work – the car could do with some bigger horses especially for straight line speed.
- Reliability: The X1/9, like many cars of its era, had a reputation for rust and reliability issues. There are not many cars left from the 70s and early 80s. Not that you wouild want to but try and find a wedge shaped Austin Princess or Ambassador.
- Ergonomics and Comfort: Some drivers found the interior of the X1/9 to be cramped, those people are usually far too tall and should buy an Ambassador.
- Market Positioning: Fiat struggled to position some of its model offerings and although some of the best Lancia models were spawned during the Fiat era i.e. Lancia 037, Lancia Delta Integrale it is fair to say that Fiat ruined the Lancia brand and as a consequence squeezed some of its own models.
It’s worth noting that Fiat did introduce some improvements during the production run of the X1/9, such as updates to the engine and other components. However, the Fiat’s production eventually ended in 1982 with Bertone continuing production under its own brand until 1989. The Fiat Barchetta and the more recent Fiat 124 Spider are great cars but there has not been a direct successor to what is arguably one of the most iconic and stylish cars of the 70s.
In hindsight, diehard enthusiasts appreciate the Fiat X1/9 for its unique design and driving experience, but like any car, there was always room for improvement to meet changing market demands and standards. That is where we come in…
