SEAT Marbella (1986 - 1998)

Last updated 6 November 2013

Buying Guide

Good

• Cheap skate for cheapskates, especially in Spain where they sold for not much more than £3,000 new.
• Ancient 903cc iron block FIAT pushrod engines.
• Lasted to 1997 in Spain were it still sold for about £3,000.
• Terra Vista combi van the best version.
• (Haynes FIAT Panda manual covers most of car.)

Bad

• Hideous Panda re-style.
• Based on old Seat Panda, not post-1988 FIAT Panda, so has old 903cc pushrod engine and old unimproved suspension.
• Rust-prone. Poor quality trim.
• Like Panda, clutch cables snap.

Watch

• Rust, front struts, wheel bearings, smoky and rattling engines. (The rattle is usually the timing chain tensioner.)
• Front suspension problems (check for uneven tyre wear).
• Don't touch one with a catalytic converter.
• Could you really live with a car this ugly?