1986 FIAT PANDA 4X4

This Mk1 Fiat Panda 4x4 is a handsome example of the chic and surprisingly capable modern classic. Under the bonnet is a transversely-mounted 965cc four-cylinder engine, coupled to a Steyr-Puch five-speed manual transmission and ‘on-demand’ four-wheel drive system. The odometer displays 3,242 km, however this is not warranted.

First registered in 1986, this charming Fiat is believed to be one of 500 limited-edition ‘Nuova Panda 4x4’ models, which were produced to commemorate the end of the Series 1 model production. While it is mechanically identical to the standard Panda 4x4, it features a number of unique cosmetic touches, including black and red racing stripes, a black vinyl-covered roof, a front bull bar and white steel wheels. Inside, the seats are clad in vibrant red vinyl, and the dashboard and door cards are accented by quilted black vinyl panels with red stripes. The car was acquired by the seller in Italy one year ago.

Today, this characterful Fiat’s Giugiaro-designed bodywork remains in great shape, and the vendor reports that there are no signs of previous damage or obvious rust. Believed to have been either partly or fully resprayed in the past, the silver paintwork is in very good overall condition, and the Nuova Panda’s distinctive red, black and white decals are very smart. The trim also presents well; however, the matt black bumpers feature a few scuffs and scratches and some discoloration on the rear bumper, the rubber gasket surrounding the fuel filler cap has perished, and the rear passenger-side light lens is cracked.

During a previous restoration, the original black vinyl roof covering was removed and it was simply painted in black instead, as the vinyl finish tends to perish very easily when exposed to the elements. The car rides on the correct set of 13-inch steel wheels, which are finished in white and present very well, with only a few very small nicks to their rims.

Moving inside, this special edition Panda’s interior is decidedly more eye-catching than its standard contemporaries, and has previously been retrimmed. The front seats and rear bench are clad in bright red vinyl with grid-pattern stitching and matching red seat belts, and show no signs of wear or damage whatsoever. On the door cards, black quilted vinyl with red stripes hints at the exterior graphics, and the same motif has been applied to the dashboard, which shows some very minor signs of its age but is free of any substantial marks.

The steering wheel is in good condition, though its centre has cracked at the corners of the horn-push button, and all of the dark grey carpet was replaced six months ago. Bringing this 1980s icon into the present day is a modern Sony stereo, which was fitted in November 2020 and provides Bluetooth connectivity and DAB+ radio. While the rear passenger-side indicator does not work, all of the other electrical items function without fault, and there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

The car’s most recent routine maintenance was carried out in November 2020 at an indicated 2,900 km by classic Fiat specialist Officina Nuvolari. A full service, this also included replacement of the alternator, starter motor, stereo and tyres. Furthermore, the vendor notes that the cambelt was replaced in February 2021.

This Panda’s last Revisione roadworthiness inspection was conducted on 24 October 2019, which it passed without any warnings. As mentioned above, all four wheels were fitted with new Pirelli Winter 160 tyres in November 2020, and have ample tread remaining.

This Fiat Panda 4x4 is a characterful modern classic, which combines genuinely impressive off-road performance with timeless Giugiaro styling. Presented in smart condition throughout and benefitting from a fully retrimmed interior, it will make the perfect all-season runabout, and is sure to attract admiring glances at every opportunity, whether its next owner is pottering through town or putting heavy modern 4x4s to shame off road.

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