R.

I have seen a really cool concept though, with solar panels integrated into the roof of the Uno. I’d prefer it if they did it with the city cars though. I just don’t think it’s possible to make an Uno look anything but tacky.

No one else has compared the pricing to VW or Volvo, most others just saying its expensive. But with that comparison, its actually a pretty good buy!

Will be booking a test drive one of these for sure. Great looks, economy which can only ever be a plus, and a Honda badge, so it shouldn’t blow up and live in the garage every few months!

It’s incredibly roomy inside and the rear seats can fold flat or be removed to give it a Tardis reputation.

The glass panoramic roof is best avoided as it is prone to failure if not lubricated and used. Lack of traditional bonnet is no problem except dealers need to handle it with care when removing but with the variable servicing you can go 2 years without seeing a garage.

See the UK’s A2 Owners Club friendly web site at http://www.a2oc.net/ with lots of expert advice.

The usage of oil is pretty much the same as many turbo cars, I believe from a friend who owns an Audi TT that the owners manual suggests a similar oil consumption.

The lower priced cars suffer from the same issues as any performance car that falls in price, as they become available to prospective owners at that sort of price, they get caned and incorrectly maintained, or serviced on an unrealistic budget. Get a well-looked after example and enjoy!

As for reliability, its another undeserved myth. Its a turbo car, and most turbo cars use oil (fiat quote up to a litre per 1,00 miles). many owners of more modern cars simply aren’t used to having to check their car’s vital fluids, A coupe can empty its sump in far less time than the service intervals, so most engine failures are owner-inflicted and not the car’s fault. Many owners are well over 100,000 miles, lots over 150,000. Some over 200,000 and I’m just shy of 230,000.

The only other thing to mention is that 20VTs can be had for under £1000 now, but I’d strongly advise you steer clear, as it will almost certainly cost you at least the same again to put it right. You’re far better to buy a well-used but well-loved example from a member of the Fiat Coupe forum, where you’ll find lots of help and advice. With Italian cars of this era, you should now be buying purely on condition and history – age and mileage are irrelevant.

Buy wrong, and you’ll simply perpetuate the myth of crappy Italian rust-buckets. Buy wisely and you’ll never have more fun for your money.

Enjoy

Ta,

on the sidewalls

A cracked manifold is actually quite easy to spot as it will result in ticking and chuffing from a cold start but will seal in 10 mins once warm.

One other common fault now the cars are reach their 10th birthday is a failed thermostat, which fails in the open position. This means the car will not reach proper operating temp and fuel consumption will be high as it will run rich.

They are great and unique cars. We have a thriving forum, website and owners club, so lots of support and advice freely available for owners and those looking to purchase.