SOTW Fiat Panda 100HP
Discussion
What a hoot, -as Tony wrote in his piece. Fizzy little scamp scooted back over the Woodhead pass, goaded us into the hang back, wait, chuck it into a couple of corners then hang back again - sequence.
Chassis set up is as excitable as everyone reports but the power train matches it for pep and vim so it all sort of melds. If there's one stand-out element I think it could be the gearbox - superb..
Faults?
Tyres and alignment: MOT history repeats itself and 'tyres showing belts' was how we found it again today. Dealer was quick to offer a discount to contribute to their replacement so we drove away happy enough.
A/C that doesn't and wear on steering wheel and gear knob - were all expected from the buying guides and present and correct. Three new wiper blades are needed and the mostly new exhaust needs refitting to not bang against the rear beam. Should be fun.
Paper work is too thin to know when the last cambelt went on, so an early service and belt kit is planned but apart from that, all's good.
Here's the bemused trader holding custard:
Chassis set up is as excitable as everyone reports but the power train matches it for pep and vim so it all sort of melds. If there's one stand-out element I think it could be the gearbox - superb..
Faults?
Tyres and alignment: MOT history repeats itself and 'tyres showing belts' was how we found it again today. Dealer was quick to offer a discount to contribute to their replacement so we drove away happy enough.
A/C that doesn't and wear on steering wheel and gear knob - were all expected from the buying guides and present and correct. Three new wiper blades are needed and the mostly new exhaust needs refitting to not bang against the rear beam. Should be fun.
Paper work is too thin to know when the last cambelt went on, so an early service and belt kit is planned but apart from that, all's good.
Here's the bemused trader holding custard:
Spinakerr said:
Well bought! How is the paintwork?
Thank you. Lacquer peel on the bonnet as we knew - one matching blister on the roof about 5p size currently and rear bumper has had a repaint down to a budget, rear spoiler is fading more than the metal work but overall, car looks okay from 10ft.- At the risk of sounding defensive; 'perfect condition' - for someone (e.g. me) who struggles to get much pleasure from shininess.
Wondered if this was going to show up here after the SOTW article. Have to say, I had a 1.2 panda as a courtesy car years ago after someone wrote off my 1.0 1998 polo, and I hated it. Thirsty at the speeds the polo excelled at, was gutless where the polo was torquey and responsive, didn't handle as well, interior wasn't up to scratch, and the seats did my back in, but I did like the little steering button that made it light as a feather on tight slow turns. However, I did look at these and think 'maybe it's worth another look'. Keep us up to date!!
Bought mine a few months ago, steering wheel also in need of a little TLC and have got the tracking done once and in need of doing again (be warned you're alloys may not be round). My biggest recommendation would be to move to 50 profile tyres, takes much of the harshness out but it's still rough around town. My aircon came back after a refill but I'm assuming there's a leak somewhere. All in all it's not perfect but it's a lot of fun and surprises and delights me everytime I get in it.
Also be prepared for embarrasment in Tesco when you realise just how big the turning circle is
Also be prepared for embarrasment in Tesco when you realise just how big the turning circle is
Underneath for the first time, but probably not the last. Bump stops appear to have gone off for a new life somewhere easier.
Need to decide whether to replace with standard or try Coupe type.
Got rid of the locking wheel nuts - not a fan of these. Do 15" Panda alloys ever get stolen? Wheel alignment and tyre fitting booked for the morning.
Need to decide whether to replace with standard or try Coupe type.
Got rid of the locking wheel nuts - not a fan of these. Do 15" Panda alloys ever get stolen? Wheel alignment and tyre fitting booked for the morning.
Nobbles said:
I loved mine. Sports mode was good for the steering but not for the throttle. Check drains under the wiper panel as they block and the spring cups at the rear. It was difficult for me to get the coupe bump stops I got them only direct from fiat.
Thank you - I'll check those drains tomorrow. Spring cup restoration is on the list. Febi Coupe bump stops are ordered from ebay £11 each..I've not tried it without "Sport" engaged yet.
Toaster Pilot said:
Well bought OP - I’m picking up a very cheap one next Saturday and will hopefully make it the 330 miles home...
Don't want to tempt fate but check the levels before you leave and all will be fine, I predict. FIRE engines were tough from day one and have been made even more resilient ever since. I hope you enjoy your journey and the car.Gassing Station | Readers' Cars | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff