Fiat coupe non turbo - still a risky proposition?

[shouldbworking]

Tempted by a 20v non turbo. I remember back when these were new(ish) that certainly the turbos were a bit of a pig to maintain - is this still the case with the non-turbo? I'm guessing the 5 cylinder engine still means limited clearance for belt changes etc.

[Nigel_O]

The mechanicals on any Coupe are the least of your worries - almost anything can be fixed

It’s the bodywork that’s the issue - you’re looking at 20 year old Italian steel

Even my own low-mileage Plus has the first signs of rust in the wheel arches and the boot floor, and it’s probably one of the best-maintained Coupes there is.

FWIW, earlier coupes seems to rust less than later ones, but you should always check very carefully underneath - you’d be well advised to get an enthusiast to have a close look, or even better, get it inspected at a Coupe specialist

Unless you get very lucky, cheap Coupes will drain your wallet quite quickly - buy wisely and you’ll be rewarded with a decent and unusual car.

PS, the turbos aren’t that much worse than the n/a for reliability, but the performance is a significant step up