Fiat Barchetta (1995 - 2005) 1.8 16V 2d (LHD) (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I like hand-built cars....not something driven by the masses

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Think it's pretty smart, and can't beleieve how cheap it was to buy

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes.....

What are you likely to buy next?

Probably another classic, but as an everyday 'modern classic', the Barchetta fits the bill perfectly

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,000

When did you buy the car?

November 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Small used-car dealer who'd got in p/ex; was looking to offload quickly, so negotiated a good deal; full MOT, service and 6-mth warranty.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Was looking specifically for a Barchetta as a third car, having read so much about them. Wanted LHD as will be driven frequently in EU.

What was the dealer like?

Advertised on e-bay, where I found the car via a classified ad; small operation, personal service, straightforward to deal with.

What's it like to drive?

Excellent driving position

What's it like to park?

Pretty straightforward, but rear view isn't great when looking through both a mesh wind-deflector and a platic window; tend to reverse park on the mirrors.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Original OE battery 'died' after car had sat for 4 months on drive before I needed to use it, which is fair enough. Nothing else to date (6 months and maybe 2000 miles)

What's most practical about your car?

Fast reasonably economical sports car, has enough storage space to be practical, and can get over 40mpg on a long run, which was unexpected, but appreciated !

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The hood is easy to lift/lower/raise, and fits well.