1971 FIAT 124 Spider, 1.8L

This is a 1971 FIAT 124 Spider with a 1.8L (1756cc) 4 cylinder engine. I bought it in April 2009 as a project and have worked through nearly every mechanical system (except the transmission which doesn’t need it). My car folder is bulging with receipts for parts replaced.

• Engine: Complete engine rebuild with new 0.4mm oversize 8.9:1 pistons & rings. Replaced all bearings. Stock cylinder head rebuilt by Vick Auto Sports. New mechanical fuel pump, motor mounts, temperature & pressure sending units, cooling system hoses. Rebuilt 28/36 DHSA2 carburetor. Crane Cams FireBall XR700 electronic ignition system. Engine runs strong but needs some carb adjustments and exercise.

• Clutch & Transmission: Flywheel turned with new friction plate, pressure plate, and release bearing. 5 speed transmission shifts smoothly.

• Brakes: Rebuilt calipers and new brake hoses at all 4 wheels. New rotors and pads.

• The previous owner had replaced the upper and lower control arms, tie rods, sway bar bushings, shock absorbers, all the interior carpet, and put on 4 new Yokohama P185/70R-13 tires in August 2008. Lots of tread left.

There was significant rust under the passenger side seat which the previous owner repaired using sheet steel and epoxy. I was concerned at first, but this repair has never given me any trouble and appears to be solid. The front passenger fender was also replaced at some point in its life and it’s not an exact match. The odometer is almost 84,000 miles. The worn top will keep you dry, but this car is meant for driving with the top down!

If you’re looking for a neat little convertible that’s fun to drive and fun to work on, this could be the one!