Fiat Coupe 20V Turbo 2d (1997/P) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
I don't think ANY car can beat this for value for money, we have Fiat, high insurance and misinformed journalists (£1000 cambelt change) and public to thank for this!
Costs
They can be costly to run - insurance, fuel and servicing can add up if driven hard! A warranty proved worthwhile for me, although in hindsight the damage caused to my car was down to my lack of understanding on the correct order to modify parts.
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On the road
Driving
Hard to believe just what a bargain this car is. Wonderful to drive, and with a little modification, very capable on the track too. Turns as many heads now, as there are less of them about now. I love every moment of driving my car.
Performance
Just amazing. It has the type of flexible power that makes it a very useable road car. Excellent as standard, even better with a few subtle modifications. Never thought I'd say that, as this is the first car I have altered!
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Living with it
Reliability
For many owners this will be their first true sports car (self included), as a result it can seem unreliable at times. Until you look at how capable the car is and compare to it's peers. My father owned my car for 3 years with no problems before me.
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To those in the know, or to those who don't know what the car is at all, it gets a lot of respect. It's only when you tell the average person 'it's a Fiat' that they somehow think less of it. Until you let them drive and say how little you paid!
Comfort
Very well suited to A roads and motorways, shakes a bit at low speeds on local roads, although only noticed when carrying the in-laws!
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Security and Service
Security
Standard alarms often fail so many will be fitted with aftermarket systems. I always use a good steering wheel lock too. I rarely hear of one being stolen.
Service
Best thing I can recommend is to avoid Fiat main dealers and instead use the knowledge from the excellent owners club forum at www.fccuk.org to find your nearest specialist. This has really made a difference to my ownership.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
New engine needed after melting a piston - too high boost on too thin oil.
Other
Clutch failed early and manifolds are a weak spot - on my third now.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes