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
You simply won't find a car with all the coupe has to offer for less than £25000 if you are buying new. It was recently voted top gear's best £5000-£10000 second hand car.
Costs
Avoid Fiat main dealers like the plague. The cambelt is the big expense - make sure it's done. £1000+ at Fiat, £550 at a specialist. 28mpg is relatively awesome. Check manifold - £600.
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On the road
Driving
In standard trim, it's very good, sharp and sensitive. Add a strut brace (£40!) and it's better still. Very nimble. Great gear change.
Performance
Wow! Will leave any GTi, SRi, GSi, ST for utter dead. It takes a Suburu WRX to keep up - and they lose touch above 80. 155mph standard! 14.5s 1/4 mile at 100mph.
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Living with it
Reliability
Demands love - regular oil checks and changes essential. On the whole if you respect it, it won't break the bank. Excellent engine and gearbox - ignore others' remarks. Suspension can be weak.
Image
Makes most cars look boring and unimaginative, which they are. Those lights (front and rear), the fuel cap and the Pininfarina badges. You really want a slower, uglier boxster at four times the price?
Comfort
Seats could be more supportive on early cars - later Recaros are excellent. Very smooth and quiet (even on boost). Room for average-sized adults in back! Am 6' 4" but fit easily. Lovely, adjustable wheel.
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Security and Service
Security
Solid alarm and immobiliser fitted as standard. With a stoplock pro, too, I don't lose sleep. Catagory one might be an idea for the insurance, though!
Service
Had no dealings - deliberately!
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Easily fixed idling problem.
Other
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