Before you buy
The Fiat twin-cam improved by Lancia is a great recipe, and all sizes of the engine are durable and fun to drive. The layout is very modern, with a transverse engine, end-on five-speed gearbox, front-wheel drive, all-independent suspension and all-disc brakes – remarkable for a car that, in saloon form at least, is now 50 years old.
All models should feel taut and lively: the 1600 and 2000 were most common in the UK, the smaller engines sweeter-revving but the larger torquier, especially if injected or supercharged. The 1300 has to be revved, but thrives on it.
Key checks are neglect; failure to replace the cambelt; alloy head corrosion; head-gasket leaks; oil and coolant leaks; clogged/leaking radiators; weeping water pumps; excessive breathing, knocking or rattling indicating internal wear; plus worn or noisy superchargers on the Volumex. Carburettors suffer spindle wear, but otherwise give little trouble if set up properly and left alone. Bosch fuel injection is reliable.
Transmissions are very strong, but check for oil leaks because any gearbox will fail without oil. Gear-linkage wear is common (giving a sloppy change), but an inexpensive kit of parts should put it right. The rare Ap-derived automatic gearbox is similar to the Mini ’box, but only a three-speed – parts are scarce, so be wary.
The all-disc brakes suffer most from the infrequent use that is inevitable with classic cars, especially if bone-dry storage isn’t available – check they all work as they should, including the notoriously vulnerable handbrake.