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Fiat Coupe (1993 – 2000) Review

Fiat Coupe (1993 – 2000) At A Glance

4/5

+Stylish design, both inside and out, enjoyable front-wheel drive handling, turbo model very quick

-Too many problems with build quality and mechanical parts, notably engine-related grief

The Fiat Coupe (or Coupe Fiat as its maker liked to call it) was an appealing and quirky entrant into the Calibra market. It was launched at the Brussels motor show in 1993, and was notable for its striking Chris Bangle-penned body styling and beautiful Pininfarina interior. It was based on the Fiat Tipo platform, and like all of its sisters, was great to drive, with excellent handling and incisive steering.

At launch, power units were limited to a four-cylinder, 2.0-litre 16V engine in turbo (190bhp) and normally aspirated (138bhp) forms. They were and joined by the brilliant 2.0-litre five-cylinder 20V in 146bhp naturally aspirated form, and the brilliant turbo model, which pushed out 220bhp. It was this car that really put the Coupe on the map, with a 0-60mph time of around six seconds and a maximum speed of 155mph. It was arguably the fastest front-wheel drive car on the market... but in reality, the naturally aspirated models were the better all-rounder.

Already on the up, as appreciative Italian car fans look for their next big thing.

Ask Honest John

Can you recommend a modern replacement for my Fiat Coupe?

"I recently lost my beloved 1998 Fiat Coupe 20v Turbo, after a head-on collision with a drunk driver. We were lucky to walk away. Having owned the car since 2002 I am looking for a replacement with the same charisma and excitement of my old Fiat. I need at least four seats, with some reasonable space in the back for growing teenagers. I would like a leather interior, a sunroof and hassle-free ownership (the Fiat was very reliable). Safety is, maybe not surprisingly, a key consideration. Ideally, I'd like to get a great value car and have a maximum budget of £25,000 but would prefer to spend less. If I pick the right car I am likely to keep it for the long haul. Any suggestions, please? "
How about a Kia Stinger? It's a left-field choice, much like your Fiat Coupe, with a spacious interior and long transferable warranty. Your budget won't quite stretch to the sporty GT S but the 2.0-litre petrol is no slouch. If you'd prefer a premium alternative, take a look at the Mercedes C-Class Coupe or BMW 4 Series.
Answered by Andrew Brady
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