Expert Buyer
Fiat X 1/9
PROJECT ► CHECK THE TRIM
Finding decent replacements for weak interior plastics is diffi cult. Cloth and vinyl have to be re-trimmed professionally.
► HOW’S THE BODY?
Corrosion is the big factor determining viability because cheap projects often need a huge amount of welding. Most reproduction panels are still available, however.
► COST IT CAREFULLY
Sadly, their relative rarity hasn’t resulted in very strong values to compensate for the difficulty of restoration. Of course, some still do it anyway, though!
USABLE ► INSPECT THE WELDS
Poor welding can lurk even in smart examples. Hotspots are the wheelarches, sills, valances and door bottoms (particularly awkward to rectify if in bad enough condition).
► JOIN THE CLUB
Some useful parts suppliers don’t have their own website, so enquire with the club. Engine bits are mercifully affordable, for the most part.
► DRIVE IT FIRST
Any sloppiness indicates poor care. Beware swing-arm ball joint wear as they’re dear; £130 plus labour per side. Gearboxes tend to lose synchro on third.
GOOD ► BUYING ABROAD
Unrestored (left-hand drive) cars can be found in sunnier parts of Europe. They’re no cheaper there, though.
► IS IT LAID-UP?
Few enjoy regular use and do suffer from neglect as a result. Budget for mechanical recommissioning and a fresh cambelt every four years.
► BUY BERTONE
The rare 1300s are arguably the prettiest and most exotic, but the 1500 Bertone-built cars received a few design tweaks and are somewhat more usable.
CONCOURS ► LIMITED APPEAL
The most collectable (ie. £10k-plus) are mainly limited editions, especially the leatherclad VS and run-out ‘Gran Finale’ editions.
► GO FOR ORIGINALS
Complete originality characterises the best, and enhances long-term value. Pay attention to trim, wheel choice, colours and decals.
► ASK IF IT’S USED
Although rare, these cars’ popularity among collectors means that many have spent a lot of their lives living in storage. Relatively few enjoy very intensive restoration work; fewer still get regular exercise.