Fiat 128 SL Coupe

[henk4]

After having pioneered the transverse engine/front wheel drive system in the Autobianchi A111 Fiat launched the successor to the evergreen 1100 model in 1969. It was dubbed 128, in the tradition set up by the 124.
The boxy model came initially as a two door sedan, but later version included a 4 door sedan and a three door break (“Panorama”) version. It had an 1116 cc SOHC engine, which was a nice revver, producing 55 BHP at 6000 Rpm.

In 1971 Fiat introduced an all new coupe version, which was to continue the success of the earlier 850 Coupe. The 2-door model showed clear lines, with an impressive upward at the rear waistline. In order to improve the performances a 1290 cc engine was introduced in the SL version (the 1116 cc engine was also available as the S version) and with now 75 BHP under the bonnet and with a kerb weight of only 820 kg, 100 mph could be achieved. The model was also exported to the USA.

In 1975 the body was significantly altered, with the fastback retained, but now sporting a real opening rear hatch. The waistline became horizontal now. This model was called 128 3P (Three porte) and was only available with the 1300 cc engine. It stayed in production until 1979.

Of both versions almost 331000 examples were made over an 8 year period. The base 128 continued to be produced until 1982 until 2.776.000 models were finished. The platform was subsequently used for the Ritmo/Strada model as well. It was also built in Jugoslavia under license and formed the basis for the Zastava, but that is another story. Another anorak fact is that the SEAT management refused to build the 128 3P and instead produced the 1200 and 1430 Sport.
Shown here is a 1973 SL version, which attended the Concorso Italiano during the 2006 Concours d’Elegance at Palace Het Loo.

[McReis]

My uncle had one of those, Sport version in olive green. He sold it along with a pristine original blue CB750 and bought a.... (I'm so ashamed to tell) a Lancia Prisma...

The 128 was fast!

[128coupe]

I have one in Portugal.

1300 SL version - 1974

[henk4]

Originally Posted by 128coupe

I have one in Portugal.

1300 SL version - 1974

yet I see two...

[128coupe]

Originally Posted by henk4

yet I see two...

But i have 3...

[henk4]

Originally Posted by 128coupe

But i have 3...

all SLs? or also a 128 3P?

[128coupe]

All 128 SL with engine 1300.

I have 12000pictures of the work in this car.

[henk4]

Originally Posted by 128coupe

All 128 SL with engine 1300.

I have 12000pictures of the work in this car.

and all meant to be in running order one day?

[henk4]

Originally Posted by 128coupe

I have 12000pictures of the work in this car.

i guess the number of pics is representative for the amount of work required.....

[128coupe]

only two.

If there curious in the forum I can show photos of the restoration, but my English is not good.

[henk4]

Originally Posted by 128coupe

only two.

If there curious in the forum I can show photos of the restoration, but my English is not good.

if you restore the cars, we (Hugo "McReis") can restore your English

[128coupe]

Originally Posted by henk4

if you restore the cars, we (Hugo "McReis") can restore your English

I promise that I will think

[McReis]

Originally Posted by 128coupe

I promise that I will think

Hi there 128coupé! Welcome to UCP.
I am a moderator here too, so just shoot your best english and if you allow me I'll do some editing whenever needed. But you're doing great so far.

I've been following the work being done on this Fiat (at distance though) and it would be great to share it with the bunch of members that are Classic Fiat enthusiasts.

If you wish you can open a thread about your restoration project on the Classic Cars section.

[128coupe]

128 engine.

[3650]

Many Thanks