1998 Fiat Barchetta Limited Edition
1998 Fiat Barchetta LE
Mileage: 99,640
MOT Expiry: 17/10/2025
Recent overhaul work inc brake lines and hoses
Limited edition Number 2390
Very rare Stelvio Green with contrasting Tan Hood
Matching Tan leather interior
Asking price to include full service
Description
The Barchetta, your alternative roadster!
THE MODEL
Back in the 1990’s there was a big demand for two seater convertible cars with nearly every manufacturer offering a sleek roadster in the showrooms. We all remember the big hitters like the MX5, Z3 or MGF. Then there are the more forgotten variants like the Suzuki Cappuccino or the Daihatsu Copen. Somewhere in the middle rests Fiat’s offering, the Barchetta!
Barchetta translates in English to “Little Boat”. And when you look at the styling of the Barchetta you can soon see some nautical nods from the designers at Centro Stile Fiat. The sculpted “gunwale” that flows the entire the length of the car or the enclosed “bow” intergrating the front bumper as the front of the car.
Based on the popular Punto platform, the little boats were powered with a fruity 129bhp 1.8l 16v petrol engine driving the front wheels and were only available in left hand drive.
Fiat entrusted the build of the Barchetta with renowned coach builder Maggiora and they were one of the last production cars to leave their factory in Moncalieri before they sadly became bankrupt in 2003. So each Barchetta holds a little bit of Italian automotive history in its heart.
THE SPEC
So in 1998, when this particular little boat was built, it became one of the Limited Edition cars. Each of which were treated to contrasting colour combinations and its own plaque with its own limited run number. LE2390 (this one) was treated to the rare Stelvio Green paintwork and Tan hood with matching leather seats and steering wheel and gear knob inserts, meaning its actually one of the rarest colours of the Barchetta run.
As with all Barchetta’s LE2390 has ABS, power steering, Electric windows, drivers airbag and front fogs. Meaning that whilst her classic lines will gain you entry to your local classic car show, the modern driving feel will mean you can also drive her further afield should you wish.
THE CONDITION
LE2390 has obviously been cherished during her 26 years and it is apparent that her Stelvio Green coat has been replenished at some point. Whilst the finish is not going to win the Concourse D’ Elegance any time soon, she is still presentable with a nice shine to her metalwork. The roof is in great condition with the rear window like new, meaning you dont have to put the roof down to reverse into a car parking slot. The matching tan leather s in good condition too and whilst it shows signs that has covered 99k miles over 26 years, there are no rips or tears anywhere. Mechanically she is great having just benefited from a recent overhaul including new brake lines, pads and hoses, rear trailing arm pin and bush replacement, some underside rust treatment including cutting out and replacing any heavily corroded areas and some new C.V gaiters. All this means she has just flown through the MOT and drives superbly. The added bonus of a sports exhaust being fitted means you feel like you’ve got twice the horsepower you actually do!
And for extra peace of mind, for full asking price, we will carry out a full service including cambelt change!
SUMMARY
If two seater roof down driving is your thing, then you’ve certainly plenty of options to choose from. But why go for the usual culprits when you can opt for for something different and stand out from the crowd… choose a little boat!
