Fiat 126 Hatchback BIS 3d (1992/J) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
I bought mine for £800 in 1999 - over the odds, but it was a genuine one previous lady owner with full service history and 26,000 on the clock. I wanted something cheap but distinctive. Yep!
Costs
Probably the cheapest car in the world to run. Cheap tax, London to Bristol for less than £10. Some parts (e.g. exhaust) pricey due to rarity.
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On the road
Driving
Learn to drive all over again. Real agricultural stuff but it makes you drive safely and appreciate luxuries like brakes.
Performance
By modern standards, laughable. Be prepared to mix it with the artics on the motorway. Beware of hills.
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Living with it
Reliability
Good for long periods, then one problem seems to breed another. Fragile electrics.
Image
Kids wave at you, other 126s honk like mad. Strangely, it is also something of a babe magnet! Maybe they think you're not 'compensating' like with a big car?
Comfort
Bearable in front, torturous in back, but don"t even think about a full load. Noisy.
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Security and Service
Security
Not bad, as no self-respecting car thief actually looks at it twice!
Service
They didn't seem to want to be associated with it any more. Miserable sods with a dirty showroom and no flexibility in servicing costs.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Had to replace it at 45,000 miles. Good for learning basic maintenance.
Other
Minor electricals (headlight circuit). Exhausts wear out quickly. Radiator needs regular flushing.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes