Fiat Barchetta for £5k – Exotic Italian Convertible Worth Buying
Bottom line: You can own a roof‑less Italian sports car for about the price of a designer handbag – a 2000‑era Fiat Barchetta can be found for £5,000, and it delivers genuine fun without the usual reliability worries.
Fiat Barchetta for £5k – Exotic Italian Convertible Worth Buying
Image: Fiat Barchetta for £5k – Exotic Italian Convertible Worth Buying – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The Barchetta’s styling is unmistakably Italian. Its side crease mimics a boat’s wake, while the flared wheel arches and low‑slung roof give it a sleek silhouette. The fabric top folds neatly into a rear deck that you open from outside – a small hassle, but the clean look is worth it. Inside, you’ll find electric windows, a sculpted dashboard with white gauges, and body‑coloured trim that keeps the cabin light. Minimalist but functional, the interior also includes practical rubber floor mats – perfect for an open‑air car.
Performance & Mileage
Under the bonnet sits a 1.7‑litre 16‑valve twin‑cam engine producing 129 bhp. Paired with a light 1,056 kg chassis, the Barchetta feels lively on twisty roads. Front‑wheel‑drive and a simple suspension deliver surprising grip and front‑end bite, making every corner enjoyable. The most common mechanical issue is a camshaft timing variator that can rattle, but it’s cheap to fix. Real‑world fuel consumption sits around 7‑8 L/100 km, giving you decent mileage for a sports car of its era.
Price & Rivals
Because the Barchetta was only sold in left‑hand drive, UK supply is limited, which helps keep the price low. You’ll find examples around £5,000, and if you accept higher mileage (50,000 mi or more) you can shave a grand off. Compared with other exotic convertibles – a Porsche Boxster or a Mazda MX‑5 ND – the Barchetta offers far more style per pound, albeit with a simpler build and a bit of rust‑prone steel. For collectors who want Italian flair without breaking the bank, it’s a compelling choice.
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.7 L 16‑valve twin‑cam | ≈7‑8 L/100 km | £5,000 (≈£4,000‑£6,000) | Roof‑less design, lightweight chassis, 129 bhp, electric windows, iconic Italian styling |
FAQ
What is the typical mileage of a Fiat Barchetta?
Most examples on the market run between 40,000 and 70,000 miles, with good examples still reliable after 80,000 miles.
Is the Fiat Barchetta worth buying for £5k?
Yes, if you value style and driving pleasure over modern tech. The low price, unique looks, and enjoyable handling make it a solid bargain.
How reliable is the Barchetta’s engine?
The engine itself is robust. The only regular concern is the camshaft timing variator, which is inexpensive to replace.
What do you think? Share your thoughts or any Barchetta hunting tips in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
