FIAT X1/9. The mid-engined gospel had been widely preached, and applied to road cars by specialist m

Moreover, in a car which was to sell more than 140 000 units by the end of the decade, some of the shortcomings of the basic layout which dogged models from more exotic companies were avoided; for example, good rearward visibility was achieved by simply working along `three box' lines. Most X1/9 mechanical components were taken from the 128 (an early intention was to call it 128 Sport Spyder).

The basis was a floorpan, with rigidity increased by a stressed control tunnel and boxed sills, and substantial front and rear bulkheads, which made for a strong structure and meant that a Targa-type detachable roof panel could be featured.

Bertone was responsible for styling, successful in almost all respects, although the cockpit was cramped if either occupant was of above-average stature.

Outward lines were well-balanced, with a subtle wedge profile, flared arches and retractable headlights; in 1978 American-specification bumpers and raised engine cover did absolutely nothing to improve the car's over-all appearance.

The engine/transmission pack of the fwd 128 was used, in slight-ly modified form and turned through 180 degrees, with a four-speed gearbox until the 1500 was introduced late in 1978. With the original 1290cc engine, the X1/9 was just a 160kph (100mph) car; in 1978 the stroke of the engine was increased to give 1498cc capacity, and a five-speed gearbox was introduced.

Top speed of this model was 177kph (110mph). The X1/9 was relatively heavy (at 912kg) for its size, but this contributed to its good ride and excellent road holding, with a nicely balanced 47/53 front/rear weight distribution contributing to generally neutral handling. To those for whom competition success is the acid test of a sports car, the X1/9 might be adjudged a failure, in that its competitions use was limited to amateurs and was largely insignificant, albeit sufficient to demonstrate potential (an X1/9 was placed fourth in the 1980 Giro d'Italia).

The factory did produce a 2-litre prototype with considerable bodywork modifications, including a substantial rear aerofoil and a prominent air intake.

Specification (road cars) Engine: 1300 — straight-four; 80.2 x 63.9mm, 1290cc; single ohc; single Weber carburettor; 73bhp at 6000rpm. 1500 — as above, but 86.4 x 63.9mm, 1498cc; 85bhp at 6000rpm. Gearbox: 1300 — four-speed manual; 1500 — five-speed manual. Chassis: platform; front suspension independent by MacPherson struts and lower wishbones; rear suspension by MacPherson struts, wishbones and single links; four-wheel disc brakes. Dimensions: wheelbase 220cm/861in; track 135cm/53in.