FIAT PANDA 100HP
A truly bargainous tiddler that still delivers big smiles
PRECEDING ABARTH’S 2007 REVIVAL BY A YEAR, THE 100HP was launched as Fiat’s most focused road car, sitting at the top of the Mk2 Panda range. A host of design changes, a dynamic overhaul and the adoption of the Punto’s 1.4-litre, overheadcam, 16-valve ‘FIRE’ engine turned Fiat’s high-volume everyday offering into one of the most engaging superminis of its time.
The 100HP looks rather understated by today’s standards, but Fiat didn’t skimp on its makeover. New 15-inch wheels, a wider track and swollen arches gave it a stout, aggressive stance like nothing else in its class. At the front, a deeper grille upped the aggression, while at the rear a diffuser-esque insert in a new bumper had a similar effect. Fiat also made the decision to remove the Panda’s roof rails to create the illusion of a lower ride height, with a roof spoiler and tinted rear windows completing the exterior uplift. Just five colours were available to choose from – black, white, red, blue and grey – and customers could also opt for the Pandamonium pack, which added red brake calipers, red side stripes, darker alloys and silver door-mirror casings.
Outputs of 99bhp and 97lb ft seem even more modest now than they did 18 years ago, but a kerb weight of just 975kg means a useful power-to-weight figure of 103bhp per ton. The engine thrives on revs, encouraging use of the short, snappy six-speed manual gearbox for spirited progress, while the car’s small dimensions help make it feel much quicker than it really is.
Further performance-enhancing changes included the standard Panda’s rear drum brakes being swapped for discs, and the fitment of modified springs, dampers and bushes that gave an entirely new dynamic character. Unfortunately, these chassis modifications did result in an uncompromising ride on trickier surfaces, but find the right road and it’s a riot, with plenty of grip, minimal body roll and darty steering combining for a pleasingly old-school feel.
The model’s strong reputation combined with the high cost of entry-level used cars means the Panda 100HP is slowly beginning to increase in price, but even so, there are great deals to be had. Just £2000 is enough for an unmodified example with six-figure miles, with double that sum securing the very best, c70,000-mile cars. Whichever way you look at it, it’s an absolute bargain.
Contrary to the Italian car stereotype, the 100HP has proven to be reliable for the most part, with no drastic maintenance required to keep a good example on the road. Interior plastics, leather and trim can show their age, but replacement parts aren’t too difficult to find should you search in the right places.
When buying, look out for signs of power steering failure, and check for proper wheel alignment when on a test drive – the 100HP is particularly sensitive to improper tracking, which in turn will lead to premature tyre wear. Ensure the timing belt has been changed regularly too, and keep an eye on oil and coolant levels. Some owners are now beginning to turn to aftermarket springs and dampers to mitigate some of that harsh ride, so check that any suspension work suits your requirements.