The Fiat 850, also known as the “spider” due to its convertible body style, is a compact, rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive automobile manufactured by Fiat from 1964 to 1973. It was designed to replace the Fiat 600 and was based on the Fiat 600 platform. The 850 was offered in two body styles: a two-door convertible and a two-door coupe. It was powered by a 843 cc four-cylinder engine that produced 49 horsepower. The 850 was a popular car in Europe, and it was also exported to other countries, including the United States. It was discontinued in 1973 and replaced by the Fiat 128.
The 850 was a significant car for Fiat. It was the first Fiat to be offered with a convertible body style, and it was also the first Fiat to be exported to the United States in large numbers. The 850 was a popular car with consumers, and it helped to establish Fiat as a major player in the global automotive market. It was succeeded by 128
Some later versions of the 850 received a larger engine displacement of 903 cc. The 850 Sport Coupe was a high-performance version of the 850 that was produced from 1968 to 1971. It was powered by a 903 cc engine that produced 52 horsepower. The 850 Sport Coupe was a popular car with racing enthusiasts, and it was raced in a variety of events.
spider fiat 850
The Fiat 850, nicknamed “spider” for its convertible body style, holds a significant place in automotive history. Its key aspects encompass its design, performance, cultural impact, and legacy.
- Compact dimensions
- Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
- Convertible body style
- Affordable price
- Popularity in Europe and the US
- High-performance Sport Coupe variant
- Influence on future Fiat models
- Symbol of Italian automotive design
- Collectible classic car
The Fiat 850’s compact size and affordable price made it a popular choice for city dwellers and budget-conscious consumers. Its rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout provided agile handling, while its convertible body style offered an exhilarating driving experience. The 850 Sport Coupe variant catered to enthusiasts with its more powerful engine and sporty appearance. The 850’s influence can be seen in subsequent Fiat models, such as the 128 and X1/9.
Compact dimensions
The Fiat 850’s compact dimensions were a key factor in its popularity and success. The car’s small size made it easy to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spaces. It was also relatively lightweight, which contributed to its agile handling and fuel efficiency.
- Maneuverability: The 850’s short wheelbase and narrow track width made it easy to navigate through tight streets and crowded parking lots.
- Parking: The 850’s compact size made it easy to find parking spaces in busy urban areas.
- Fuel efficiency: The 850’s light weight and small engine contributed to its excellent fuel economy.
- Handling: The 850’s low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution gave it responsive and agile handling.
The 850’s compact dimensions were not only a practical advantage but also a key part of its appeal. The car’s small size and nimble handling made it a fun and engaging car to drive, especially on winding roads or in city traffic.
Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
The Fiat 850’s rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout played a significant role in shaping its driving characteristics and overall appeal.
Weight distribution: The rear-engine layout concentrated weight over the rear wheels, providing better traction and handling, especially in slippery conditions.
Agility: The rear-wheel-drive configuration allowed for a more direct and responsive steering feel, enhancing the car’s agility and maneuverability.
Compactness: The rear-engine layout allowed for a shorter front end, contributing to the 850’s compact dimensions and maneuverability in tight spaces.
Maintenance: The rear-engine design made maintenance and repairs easier, as the engine was more accessible compared to front-engine vehicles.
The rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout was an integral part of the Fiat 850’s character, contributing to its handling prowess, compact size, and ease of maintenance. It is a testament to the 850’s innovative engineering and design.
Convertible body style
The convertible body style is a defining characteristic of the Fiat 850 Spider, shaping its appearance, driving experience, and overall appeal.
- Open-air driving: The convertible body style allows occupants to enjoy open-air driving, providing a sense of freedom and exhilaration. With the top down, the Spider transforms into a thrilling roadster, offering a unique driving experience.
- Style and aesthetics: The convertible body style adds a touch of elegance and sportiness to the Fiat 850’s design. The sleek lines and flowing curves of the Spider are accentuated with the top down, creating a visually striking and iconic silhouette.
- Functionality and practicality: Despite its compact size, the Spider’s convertible body style offers surprising practicality. The folding soft top can be easily retracted and stowed away, allowing for quick and convenient transitions between open-air and closed-top driving.
- Historical significance: The convertible body style has been a hallmark of the Fiat 850 since its introduction in 1965. It has become synonymous with the Spider’s identity and has contributed to its enduring popularity among enthusiasts and collectors.
In conclusion, the convertible body style is an integral part of the Fiat 850 Spider’s identity. It enhances the driving experience, adds style and elegance, provides functionality, and holds historical significance. The Spider’s convertible body style is a key factor in its enduring appeal and popularity.
Affordable price
The Fiat 850 Spider, renowned for its captivating design and engaging driving experience, was also notable for its accessible price point, a crucial factor in its widespread popularity and enduring legacy.
- Value proposition: The Spider offered an exceptional value proposition, combining affordability with a compelling package of features, performance, and style. This made it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers and enthusiasts alike.
- Economy and practicality: The 850 Spider’s fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs further enhanced its affordability, making it an economical choice for daily use and longer journeys.
- Broad appeal: The affordable price point allowed the Spider to appeal to a wider audience, including young buyers, families, and first-time car owners, who could experience the joy of open-air motoring without breaking the bank.
- Sales success: The Spider’s affordability played a significant role in its commercial success, contributing to its strong sales performance and establishing it as a popular choice in various markets worldwide.
In conclusion, the affordable price of the Fiat 850 Spider was a key ingredient in its recipe for success. It made the dream of owning a stylish, fun, and reliable convertible car a reality for countless individuals, solidifying its place as an iconic and accessible classic.
Popularity in Europe and the US
The Fiat 850 Spider’s popularity in Europe and the US was a significant factor in its success and enduring legacy. Several key factors contributed to this popularity:
- European flair and style: The Spider embodied the essence of Italian automotive design, with its sleek lines, sporty stance, and convertible roof. This European flair appealed to buyers in both Europe and the US, who sought a stylish and sophisticated car.
- Affordable performance: The Spider offered an exciting driving experience at an accessible price point. Its nimble handling, responsive engine, and sharp braking made it a joy to drive, even on winding roads and in city traffic.
- Practicality and versatility: Despite its compact size, the Spider provided surprising practicality. Its folding soft top allowed for open-air motoring when desired, while its trunk space was adequate for daily use and weekend getaways.
- Cultural impact: The Spider became a symbol of freedom and adventure, particularly in the US. It was featured in popular movies and TV shows, further enhancing its appeal and desirability.
The Spider’s popularity in Europe and the US cemented its status as an iconic classic car. Its combination of style, performance, affordability, and cultural significance continues to attract enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
High-performance Sport Coupe variant
The Fiat 850 Sport Coupe was a high-performance variant of the popular Fiat 850 Spider. It was introduced in 1968 and produced until 1971. The Sport Coupe featured a number of upgrades over the standard Spider, including a more powerful engine, revised suspension, and sportier styling.
- Engine: The Sport Coupe was powered by a 903 cc four-cylinder engine that produced 52 horsepower. This was a significant increase over the standard Spider’s 49 horsepower engine.
- Suspension: The Sport Coupe featured a revised suspension system that included stiffer springs and shocks. This improved the car’s handling and made it more responsive.
- Styling: The Sport Coupe had a number of unique styling cues that distinguished it from the standard Spider. These included a black grille, fog lights, and a rear spoiler.
The Fiat 850 Sport Coupe was a popular car with enthusiasts. It offered a combination of performance, style, and affordability that was unmatched by any other car in its class. Today, the Sport Coupe is a sought-after collector’s item.
Influence on future Fiat models
The Fiat 850 Spider played a significant role in shaping the direction of future Fiat models. Its innovative design, engineering, and performance left a lasting legacy on the Italian automaker.
- Compact and sporty design: The 850 Spider’s compact dimensions and sporty styling influenced the design of future Fiat models, such as the Fiat 124 Sport Spider and the Fiat X1/9. These cars shared the 850 Spider’s nimble handling and open-air driving experience.
- Rear-engine layout: The 850 Spider’s rear-engine layout was also adopted by other Fiat models, including the Fiat 128 and the Fiat 131. This layout provided these cars with excellent weight distribution and handling.
- Performance and innovation: The 850 Spider’s high-performance Sport Coupe variant demonstrated Fiat’s commitment to innovation and performance. This model’s more powerful engine and upgraded suspension paved the way for future Fiat performance cars, such as the Fiat Abarth 124 Rally.
In conclusion, the Fiat 850 Spider’s influence on future Fiat models can be seen in its compact and sporty design, rear-engine layout, and commitment to performance and innovation. This iconic car left a lasting legacy on the Italian automaker, shaping the direction of future Fiat models for decades to come.
Symbol of Italian automotive design
The Fiat 850 Spider stands as an enduring symbol of Italian automotive design, embodying the country’s passion for style, performance, and innovation. Its iconic design and engineering have left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.
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Elegant and timeless design:
The Spider’s sleek lines, flowing curves, and convertible roof exude Italian flair. Its balanced proportions and minimalist details create a timeless aesthetic that continues to captivate enthusiasts.
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Engineering ingenuity:
The Spider’s rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and compact dimensions showcase Italian engineering prowess. This configuration provides agile handling and a thrilling driving experience.
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Cultural significance:
The Spider has become an icon of Italian culture, appearing in numerous films and television shows. Its association with freedom, adventure, and “la dolce vita” has cemented its place in the hearts of Italians and car enthusiasts worldwide.
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Influence on future designs:
The Spider’s design and engineering have influenced generations of Fiat models. Its compact and sporty proportions, rear-engine layout, and convertible roof have become hallmarks of Italian automotive design.
In conclusion, the Fiat 850 Spider is a true symbol of Italian automotive design. Its elegant styling, innovative engineering, and cultural significance have made it an icon that continues to inspire and captivate car enthusiasts around the world.
Collectible classic car
The Fiat 850 Spider has gained significant recognition as a collectible classic car, attracting enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. This status is attributed to several key factors that highlight the Spider’s unique characteristics and enduring appeal.
Firstly, the Spider’s timeless design and Italian heritage contribute to its collectible nature. Its elegant lines, convertible roof, and compact dimensions embody the essence of Italian automotive design, making it an object of desire for collectors who appreciate classic styling.
Furthermore, the Spider’s rarity and historical significance add to its collectibility. Relatively few Spiders were produced, especially the high-performance Sport Coupe variant, making them even more sought-after by collectors. The Spider’s association with popular culture, including its appearances in films and television shows, has also enhanced its desirability.
In practical terms, owning a collectible classic car like the Fiat 850 Spider offers several benefits. Classic cars often appreciate in value over time, making them a potential investment opportunity. Additionally, owning a classic car provides a unique driving experience, allowing enthusiasts to connect with automotive history and enjoy the nostalgia associated with these iconic vehicles.
In conclusion, the Fiat 850 Spider’s status as a collectible classic car is firmly established due to its timeless design, Italian heritage, rarity, and cultural significance. Its collectibility not only provides enjoyment and prestige to owners but also represents a tangible connection to the rich history of automotive design.
FAQs about the Fiat 850 Spider
This section addresses frequently asked questions about the Fiat 850 Spider, providing concise and informative answers to common concerns or misconceptions.
Question 1: What is the significance of the Fiat 850 Spider’s design?
The Fiat 850 Spider’s design is widely recognized for its timeless elegance and Italian flair. Its sleek lines, flowing curves, and convertible roof embody the essence of Italian automotive design, making it an object of desire for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Question 2: What makes the Fiat 850 Spider a collectible classic car?
The Fiat 850 Spider has gained significant recognition as a collectible classic car due to its unique characteristics and enduring appeal. Its timeless design, Italian heritage, rarity, and cultural significance contribute to its desirability among collectors.
Question 3: What are the key features of the Fiat 850 Sport Coupe variant?
The Fiat 850 Sport Coupe was a high-performance variant of the Spider, featuring a more powerful engine, revised suspension, and sportier styling. It offered an exciting driving experience and remains a sought-after model among collectors.
Question 4: How does the Fiat 850 Spider’s rear-engine layout affect its handling?
The Fiat 850 Spider’s rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout provides it with excellent weight distribution and handling. This configuration contributes to its agile and responsive driving characteristics, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.
Question 5: What is the historical significance of the Fiat 850 Spider?
The Fiat 850 Spider played a significant role in shaping the direction of future Fiat models, influencing their design, engineering, and performance. It also became an icon of Italian culture, appearing in numerous films and television shows.
Question 6: Are Fiat 850 Spiders a good investment?
Classic cars like the Fiat 850 Spider often appreciate in value over time, making them potential investment opportunities. However, the value of a specific vehicle depends on various factors such as its condition, rarity, and historical significance.
In summary, the Fiat 850 Spider is a significant classic car that combines elegant design, Italian heritage, and engaging driving dynamics. Its collectibility and historical importance make it a desirable choice for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Proceed to the next section for more information about the Fiat 850 Spider’s specifications, performance, and cultural legacy.
Tips for Maintaining and Enjoying Your Fiat 850 Spider
Owning a Fiat 850 Spider is a rewarding experience that requires proper care and attention to preserve its value and driving pleasure. Here are some essential tips to help you maintain and enjoy your classic Italian roadster:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your Fiat 850 Spider. Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, which includes oil changes, filter replacements, and brake inspections. Regular maintenance will help prevent costly repairs and ensure optimal performance.
Tip 2: Rust Prevention
Fiat 850 Spiders are prone to rust, especially in areas with high humidity or coastal climates. Regularly inspect your Spider for signs of rust and take immediate action to prevent further damage. Apply rust-proofing treatments to vulnerable areas, such as the undercarriage, wheel arches, and door frames.
Tip 3: Electrical System Care
The Fiat 850 Spider’s electrical system can be sensitive to wear and tear. Ensure that all electrical components are in good working order, including the battery, alternator, and wiring harness. Clean and tighten electrical connections regularly to prevent electrical issues.
Tip 4: Soft Top Maintenance
If your Fiat 850 Spider has a convertible soft top, proper care is essential to maintain its functionality and appearance. Clean the soft top regularly and treat it with a water repellent to protect it from the elements. Inspect the soft top mechanism for any signs of wear or damage, and lubricate moving parts as needed.
Tip 5: Performance Enhancements
While the Fiat 850 Spider is known for its charming performance, there are several modifications you can make to enhance its power and handling. Consider upgrading the exhaust system, installing performance tires, or adding a cold air intake. These modifications can improve acceleration, cornering, and overall driving experience.
Tip 6: Preservation and Storage
If you plan on storing your Fiat 850 Spider for an extended period, take steps to preserve its condition. Disconnect the battery, fill the fuel tank to prevent condensation, and place the car on jack stands to prevent flat spots on the tires. Cover the car with a breathable car cover to protect it from dust and moisture.
Tip 7: Community Involvement
Join Fiat 850 Spider clubs or online forums to connect with other enthusiasts and owners. Share knowledge, seek advice, and participate in events dedicated to preserving and enjoying these classic cars.
By following these tips, you can maintain the beauty, performance, and value of your Fiat 850 Spider for years to come. Embrace the timeless charm and driving pleasure that only this iconic Italian roadster can offer.
Conclusion
The Fiat 850 Spider, with its captivating design, engaging performance, and enduring legacy, stands as a testament to Italian automotive excellence. Its popularity and influence have shaped the automotive landscape, leaving an indelible mark on Fiat’s history and the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide.
As a collectible classic car, the Fiat 850 Spider continues to inspire and attract collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its rarity, timeless design, and cultural significance make it a valuable and sought-after piece of automotive history. Preserving and enjoying these classic roadsters ensures that the legacy of the Fiat 850 Spider will live on for generations to come.