BUYING WITH CONFIDENCE

CONCOURS £20,000-50,000+ 1 DON’T PAY TOO MUCH

Series I 1600 HF ‘Fanalone’ models can approach £100k but are mega rare; Series IIs 1600 HFs are nearer £50k, whereas saloons top-out around £20k.

2 CHECK OUT THE MODS

Relatively common, though they ought to carry an element of period authenticity to stand out and retain top value.

3 WHICH MODEL IS IT?

Rare derivatives such as ‘Series 1.5’ pique collector curiosity, but values are at the mercy of whoever happens to be buying. Set a budget and know which derivative you’re trying to buy.

GOOD £15,000-30,000 1 LOOK AT IMPORTS

Some of the better survivors have been imported recently from the Continent, where availability is still decent. Search widely.

2 CHECK THE EXTRAS

HFs got the best extras, such as Cromodora alloys and five-speed gearboxes. These goodies add desirability and resale value.

3 INSPECT THE BODY

Total structural integrity and provenance are the major factors deserving a strong valuation. Remember that mechanical issues can be rectified.

USABLE £8000-15,000 1 LOOK FOR LEAKS

The V4s are well engineered and durable. Oil and coolant leaks are your main worries with lower-budget cars, so check carefully.

2 HOW’S THE CABIN?

A shabby interior can really let the car down and some parts won’t be easy to replace, making this a good area to haggle over.

3 HAS IT BEEN BODGED?

Look closely for evidence of ham-fisted driving, for example, replaced panels and hidden structural welds. Avoid, unless you plan for a big resto anyway.

PROJECT £3000-10,000 1 LOOK AT PARTS SUPPLY

This is generally good, with a few exceptions (bumpers, trim, some bits of glass, etc). Panels are made by specialists such as David Ashworth.

2 COST THE RESTO OF A FULVIA CAREFULLY

The cost of quality labour will outstrip the car’s resale value. Also beware the cost of components; a 1600 engine is about £7-10k.

3 TAKE YOUR TIME

Not many rough Fulvias are on the market, so have patience and be prepared to travel. A few have been imported from the USA.