New member looking for advice

[Dcipper]

Hey all ... Had a 79 years ago (as a young'n) and now that I'm a little older, and financially a little more comfortable, looking to once again become a spider owner. So, question for you all - what should I go after:

1) 1982 - I like the 2l with fuel injection
2) 1983 - same as above but not sure the difference between the 82 to the 83
3) 1985.5 - do I go all out and go after the holy grail (basically is it worth the extra $$)

Thanks

[vandor]

If you can afford it get a 85.5! It's the best diving experience.

My second choice would be 82. The 83 was badged a Pininfarina and not a Fiat, and the interior and other details were upgraded. Some of those parts are harder to find or more expensive than the equivalent ones for a Fiat.

[SunnySideUp]

If you are aiming for a holy grail why not import a Volumex from Europe (or one of the handful in Canada, IF you can pry one out of someone's hands). They are basically an Abarth supercharged 85.5.

The downside to the '83-'85 series car is trying to source some of the unique interior parts like the vertical section of the center console. The 85.5 has a few more unique (and nicer) interior parts along with mechanical upgrades of bigger front brakes, rack & pinion steering, and a thicker front sway bar. Finding a decent '85.5 will take some patience but they show up for sale once in a while.

The easiest all around for parts would be the '82. Don't discount an '80.5 (start of F.I) or an '81 as they are every bit as good as an '82 (I'm sure someone will argue with me on that point).

Good luck in your search!

[Dcipper]

Thanks guys ... I'll post what I end up with

[vandor]

>If you are aiming for a holy grail why not import a Volumex from Europe (or one of the handful in Canada, IF you can pry one >out of someone's hands). They are basically an Abarth supercharged 85.5.

Not all Volumexes are '85.5' spec, ie. earlier ones did not have rack and pinion, and other unique '85.5' parts.

[sherwood]

Welcome to the list!

If you are interested, I still have my '81 for sale. (Also have a large amount of Fiat memorabilia).

Please take a look at my photobucket page:

http://s1281.photobucket.com/user/asalo ... t=6&page=1

[Jimb]

>If you are aiming for a holy grail why not import a Volumex from Europe (or one of the handful in Canada, IF you can pry one >out of someone's hands). They are basically an Abarth supercharged 85.5.

Not all Volumexes are '85.5' spec, ie. earlier ones did not have rack and pinion, and other unique '85.5' parts.

I believe they made 200 in 1983 and 300 in 1985/85.5

Jim

[Bytor36]

Maybe something from RoadsterSalon http://roadstersalon.com/models/