1986 FIAT UNO TURBO I.E.

This first-phase 1986 Fiat Uno Turbo i.e. is a handsome and recently restored retro hot hatch, which is presented in smart, unmolested condition. It is powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged inline-four with fuel injection, driving the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. The odometer displays 6,500km, but this is likely the mileage since the restoration.

Introduced in April 1985, the Turbo i.e. followed the example set by other marques at the time, adding additional horsepower to the small, practical Uno hatchback, while also addressing its handling with the addition of a lowered and uprated suspension setup, and more performance-oriented brakes. Externally, the Turbo i.e. was set apart by its black plastic wheel arch extensions and sill trims, as well as the fibreglass tailgate with an integrated spoiler and a revised front bumper.

First registered in May 1986, this left-hand drive Italian-market car benefits from a full cosmetic restoration, having been stripped back to its bare body shell and repainted, before the mechanical components were refitted and the interior trim was replaced. The car is now offered for sale by the trade.

Today, this modern-classic hot hatch’s bodywork presents very well, and is not believed to have suffered from any accident damage. Its glossy white finish is also in excellent order, and was resprayed when the car was restored some years ago, though the black plastic front bumper has acquired some scratches since.

The exterior is also adorned with correct reproduction black vinyl side stripes with red lettering and black and red badges on the tail. The car sits on a correct set of 13-inch Cromodora alloy wheels, which have been painted a dark metallic grey. All four are in great shape, with no signs of damage or blemishes to their surfaces.

In the cabin, this charming Italian hatchback features the correct Missoni herringbone fabric on its seat centres and door cards, as well as vibrant red carpeting. The interior presents extremely well throughout, and while it is not known whether it has been retrimmed, there are few signs of wear to the seats, steering wheel or gear knob.

Given its age, the cabin does show some minor signs of use, including light scratches to the plastic on the passenger-side door card and the sides of the centre console, but it is very smart overall. This driver-focused Fiat may be slightly limited when it comes to interior equipment, however the seller states that its few electrical items work without fault, and that there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

Mechanically, the car is almost entirely standard, save for its aftermarket exhaust system. Unfortunately, its service history is unknown, however the vendor states that it is in good running order, and will be serviced before being handed over to the successful buyer.

All four tyres are described as being in good condition, and appear to have plenty of tread remaining.

This Fiat Uno Turbo i.e. is a rare first-generation example of the retro hot hatch, which presents in excellent condition both inside and out thanks to a recent restoration. Ready to drive and enjoy immediately, this peppy Italian will make an excellent addition to any collection of modern classics.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

As this vehicle is not UK-registered, it cannot be run through Collecting Cars’ standard online HPI check process.