Fiat Barchetta 1.8 16V 2d (LHD) (2003/03) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Incredible value new at 11995. In the same class as MX5 and MR2, but a whopping 6 grand less than either. No contest.
Costs
Insurance a ridiculous group 16 so get a quote before buying. If you have 5 years NCD then you should get insured for 500.
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On the road
Driving
Loads of grip from front wheel drive. Feels faster than it really is. Lots of fun once you have got used to LHD.
Performance
Very good power to weight ratio. Gets to sixty in a perky 8 seconds and will pull over 130 on the motorway. Very relaxed top gear gives 90mph cruise at just 4000rpm.
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Living with it
Reliability
Feels solid for a Fiat. A few niggly faults nothing serious. Early problems with the VVT were sorted after 2000 model year.
Image
Completely blows away any of its competitors with its styling. I previously had an MX5 which never got a second look (although it was a better quality car), but this attracts lots of admiring glances. Gorgeous front end reminiscent of Elan and GT40.
Comfort
Snug and comfortable, but more wind and engine noise than other roadsters so it's more tiring on long motorway runs than an MX5.
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Security and Service
Security
Locks feel poor quality but factory alarm is good. Another minus point compared to MX5 is vulnerable plastic rear screen which is a swine to see out of at the best of times!
Service
Main dealers can be pricey and unhelpful. Most parts off Punto so get serviced at a local garage once warranty has expired.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
None
Other
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
New
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes