FIAT 850 COUPE

Press, Volume CV, Issue 30982, 11 February 1966, Page 9

FIAT 850 COUPE

rpilE model which helped to 1 put Fiat of Turin in the million vehicle a year class (1965 Fiat output was 1,150,000) was the 850 in its various versions.

One of these, the 850 coupe, only recently arrived in New Zealand as the model was not released for export until after the November Turin Motor Show. The true fastback shape attracted attention immediately. Although the coupe is based on the design of the 850 saloon extensive modifications make it a true sports car and improved brakes, transmission and steering give the car handling characteristics 'which

match the extra engine power. Engine modifications include raising compression ratio to 9.3 to 1 and substitution of four separate ducts for the exhaust manifold. A Weber dual throat carburettor is also fitted and combined effect of the modifications is to raise power output by 10 B.H.P. to 52 B.H.P. (S.A.E. standard). Top speed is in excess of 84 m.p.h. Disc brakes are fitted to the front wheels and the lower centre of gravity gives the car exceptional road holding characteristics. The interior is up to the

usual high standard for the luxury cars in the Fiat range. The front bucket seats give excellent all round support and the driving position gives good all round visibility and allows the instrument panel to be in sight at all times. Instrumentation in the wood finish laminate fascia includes a revolution counter. The usual powerful Fiat heater is fitted, and adjustable outlets can be used to direct warm or cool air to any part of the car. The price (which includes undersealing and whitewall tyres) is £1099 with sterling deposit of £450.