HOW TO GET ONE IN YOUR GARAGE
An expert’s view KARL PRICE, L&M, ALFA AND FIAT SPECIALISTS
“The 100 HP is unburstable and bulletproof in many areas and it can survive huge mileages. One just in had 123k miles on the clock but was in great condition. It’s mostly a very reliable car. Rear shocks are a real weak point, though. The rear subframe bushes can go, too. It’s always best to make sure your car has had new top mounts fitted. The front suspension arms can go as well, so check those carefully. And it’s always best to make sure the cambelt’s been done. You can’t remap a 100HP, although there is a turbo conversion out there that really flies.”
Buyer beware… ■ WHEELS, TYRES AND BODYWORK
The car is very sensitive to suspension geometry, so check the tyres for uneven wear, as this is an early sign. They can potentially eat through tyres if it’s out of alignment. Wheels shouldn’t corrode or buckle so long as they haven’t been knocked. Bodywork is fine, but the thin paint picks up stone chips easily.
■ SUSPENSION
Rear dampers can be problematic, although they’re not too expensive. The power steering motor can fail (around £600 to replace). Shock absorbers begin to leak due to rust, especially along a welded seam. Rear bump stops are a common failure as they were not fixed to the car very well at the factory.
■ BRAKES
A new set of front discs and pads costs around £300 fitted. The rear brakes can hum when reversing, but it’s more of an inconvenience than a problem.
■ TRANSMISSION
No real issues with the gearbox other than the odd leak at joints. Small leaks shouldn’t be a worry, but check regularly. A stiff clutch points to a worn pressure plate. Clutches can wear quickly but should last 50,000 miles, even with sustained town use.
■ INTERIOR
The seats are known to tear but aren’t too difficult to re-upholster. The electric window mechanisms are prone to failing but, again, it’s not going to break the bank to fix them. Check that the electric windows work and the headlights stay on when the indicators are on. The stereo can be problematic, too, switching itself on and draining the battery.
■ ENGINE
With regular servicing, the 100HP’S engine is relatively free of problems, but keep an eye on oil and coolant levels. Any tappet noises or rattling suggest the car has been running low on oil. Check all the levels and have a good look for any signs of leaks. Timing belts are best replaced every three years rather than the recommended five. Services come at 12,000-mile intervals.
Also worth knowing
Check the drainage holes at the bottom of the windscreen. If they get blocked with leaves, water will collect there and can cause the windscreen wiper motor to fail.
Also check the exhaust’s backbox, which is susceptible to rot. A full stainless steel exhaust is worth adding for around £600, saving you bills in the long run.
How much to spend
£1000-£1999
Early and high-mileage (in excess of 100,000 miles) cars and some badly kept examples with little history being sold privately. Buy with caution but bargains do exist.
£2000-£2999
More early cars but with lower mileages and in reasonable overall condition. Check engine and suspension components carefully, especially if buying privately. Cambelts should be done at this level, too.
£3000 AND ABOVE
Models in good to excellent condition with a partial or complete history and less than 100,000 miles on the clock, often sold by a knowledgeable dealer.
One we found FIAT PANDA 1.4 16v 100HP, 2008, 52,000 MILES, £3791
This one-owner-from-new 100HP has a well-below-average mileage, a full service history and a year’s MOT. Smart bodywork and unblemished alloys cover an interior that looks remarkably unused. Comes from a reputable dealer. Good price, too.