Hatch Heaven

The 1979 Fiat Strada was one of seventy designs considered. It was available with a 1300cc or 1500cc engine, a four or five speed or automatic transmission and even a three door version. Even the most basic model came with an FM Stereo, front and rear seats belts, rear wash and wipe and wrap-around bumpers. Prices ranged from £3,044 to £3,742 and got up to 56 MPG.

The 1983 Fiat Panda Super, promoted as a more sophisticated animal, was undeniably a product of its age. It was a no-nonsence, workman like design without fuss or frills. Rugged, innovative, versatile and compact yet spacious. The Super had an upgraded fifth gear for better economy and relaxed cruising and had thicker insulation to keep things even quieter. It also had a sleeker look with a new distinctive grill with a choice of striking colors including new metallics. The instrument panel was given fully illuminated switches and heater control and a central console with additional storage space, radio mounting and cigarette lighter. The MSRP was £2,995.

There seems to be a “circle” theme implemented into the front-wheel drive Fiat Ritmo, from the cool round door handles to the the round headlights, all the way down to the round-tipped bars on the wheels. It was launched in 1978 and styled by Bertone of Italy. This 65 CL had a 1.3 Liter engine that produced 64 bhp.

While it doesn’t look it, you could fit a family of five, with luggage in the 1981 Fiat Panda and still get 35 MPG in the city and 56 MPG on the highway. Creature comforts included tinted windows, a rear windscreen wiper, reclining seats which folded down into a double bed, head restraints, and a six year anti corrosion warranty. All for £2,995.

At the time, the 1983 Fiat Uno 55 Comfort represented something far more significant than the launch of a new car. Fiat claimed it was the creation of a totally new class of car. I think not. Its standard equipment included cloth-faced seats, and fitted radio, interior hatch release, quartz analogue clock, illuminated switches, 5-speed gearbox and optional sun-roof. It achieved an amazing 65.7 MPG (does any car today even come close?) and accelerated to 62 MPH in just 11.5 seconds. All, starting at £3,690.

The Fiat 127 was produced by the Italian automaker Fiat between 1971 and 1983. It was introduced in 1971 as the replacement for the Fiat 850. Production of the 3-door hatchback 127 was launched in 1972 in Italy and ended in 1983 following the introduction of its replacement, the Fiat Uno. (Image source: John Lloyd)