Fiat Bravo 1.2 16V SX (80bhp) 3d (2001/51) Owner Review

Smooth, precise handling, with pretty much no body roll. Light steering, but plenty of feedback. The gear box is slick and parking is easy. Pure no-nonsense, effortless experience. It's Italian flair at it's best.

It doesn't feel like a 1.2 when you're driving, just keeps giving you more. It doesn't need to be pushed to get moving, that's what the 16v is for. You feel the lack of power with more than 2 people in it though, especially up a hill or on a motorway.

Perfect. Bit of rust on the exaust, but guessing at poor ownership in the past (oil seemed to return to it's original form, it was so black and thick, don't think it was ever changed in 30k miles)

It's original, It's style. Play 'Spot the Bravo' and then 'Spot the Astra/Focus/Corsa/Golf/Polo' (You choose) Shocking results eh? Shame the 1.2 doesn't come in yellow, having owned a Seicento Sporting in that colour, I really feel like I'm missing out!

Seats hug you but don't smother. They also move up and down, as does the steering wheel. Seats lean and slide, so getting into the back is a doddle. Plenty of space for 4 adults, 5 is OK.

Immobiliser is standard on all Fiats, an alarm would be nice, or even a red light to deter. Feels very solid when you close the door though, unlike my Seicento.

To be honest, I can't comment cos I don't use Fiat. You'd get better results from Monkeys in a jungle. Penguins in a zoo is a good idea too, they look the part. If Fiat could clean up their customer service, owning a Fiat would be mint.

Engine

The ECU does NOT need re-mapping on any models, just the ones that have been push started.

Other

There's nothing a Polo, Corsa or Astra does that this cannot match. Stop going with the crowd and try one of these. Absolute bargain.

Did you buy the car new?

Used

Would you buy the same model again?

Yes

Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

Yes