With its mid-engined layout, compact dimensions and bold wedge styling, it’s hard to believe the Fiat X1/9 was first put into production as long as 51 years ago. It’s a car that’s often seen as a as credible alternative to newer machinery such as the Toyota MR2, yet predates it by a considerable margin. Indeed, it instantly showed up the age of British rivals like the MG Midget and Triumph Spitfire, and today there’s still an awful lot to like about a sports car that will provide big thrills yet fit comfortably in a small garage.
The X1/9 first appeared in 1969 as a concept car called the Autobianchi A112 Runabout. The body was penned by famed designer Marcello Gandini and manufactured by Bertone, leaving Fiat to fit its 74bhp, 1290cc, SOHC engine from the Fiat 128 and assemble the car. Production didn’t get underway until 1972, and it wasn’t until 1977 that UK customers could buy a RHD model.
In 1978, a larger 84bhp, SOHC, 1498cc motor from the Fiat Strada was fitted, complete with a five-speed manual gearbox instead of the previous four-speed. In 1982, assembly was moved to Bertone and all cars became known as the Bertone X1/9, including the VS model with two-tone paintwork, alloy
