A stylized rendering of the X1/9's profile.
Fiat entered the mid-engine sports car market in 1972 with the wedge-shaped X1/9. Styled by the Bertone design studio, the X1/9 featured the engine from Fiat's front-wheel-drive 128 model, mounted behind the X1/9's two-seater passenger compartment to achieve a mid-engine layout. This gave the X1/9 very well-balanced handling. Though never a fast car, the X1/9 did win a number of races. Fiat began importing the X1/9 to the U.S. in 1974.
Engine Specs 1972 to 1978
Early versions of the Fiat X1/9 sported a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder motor producing 61 hp. This engine delivered power to its rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission.
Engine Specs 1979 to 1988
In 1979, engine displacement increased to 1.5 liters. With the addition of fuel injection the following year, horsepower rose to 75, with 79 foot-pounds of torque, all delivered through a five-speed manual transmission. In 1982, Bosch fuel injection boosted power and improved emissions.
Chassis
The chassis featured independent front and rear coil spring suspension and a monocoque body. Steering was rack-and-pinion.
Dimensions
The X1/9 measured 156.2 inches in length, 62 inches in width, 46.5 inches in height and 86.7 inches along the wheelbase. The X1/9 weighed 2,150 pounds.
Performance
Due to the X1/9's small engine, 0 to 60 clocked in at 11.0 or 12.0 seconds, depending on the source. In 1976, new emission standards increased 0-to-60 times to 14.0 seconds, until the 1.5-liter engine arrived in 1979. However, due to the mid-engine design's ideal weight distribution, the X1/9 offered outstanding handling.
Production
Fiat produced about 150,000 X1/9s for sale worldwide between 1972 and 1981. In 1982, Fiat pulled out of the U.S. market, and Bertone took over production of the X1/9. Bertone produced about 10,000 X1/9s between 1982 and 1988, most labeled as the "Bertone X1/9."
Racing Victories
Despite the X1/9's modest acceleration, it performed well on race tracks and in Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) competitions. It also achieved success in off-road rallies.
Aftermarket Modifications
The X1/9 can easily be modified for increased performance. Aftermarket modifications include new camshafts, cylinder heads, air filters, exhaust systems and carburetors. Larger air intakes and turbochargers can also boost horsepower. Some owners have transplanted larger engines from other Fiat models. The car's already excellent handling can be improved even more with aftermarket springs, shocks and anti-roll bars.
Current Value
The X1/9 delivered value in the sports car market when it was new. For instance, the 1979 model cost $7,115. Examples in excellent condition can now be acquired for about $9,000 to $10,000, with decent examples running for around $3,000 to $6,000.
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