1974 Fiat X1/9 LQQK!!

1974 Fiat X1/9. In the hierarchy of the X1/9 world, the first-year model (first in the U.S. at least) sits at the top for many enthusiasts. Color code 358 pushes it to the pinnacle. I am partial to the color, but it elicits a love it or hate it reaction – not many are in the middle. 358 was chosen by the designer, the Fiat marketing gurus, and their ad agency as the one to feature for their brochure shoot, auto show displays, and all other launch activities. Vehicle manufactures go to great lengths to find just the right combination to put their creations in the best light possible, and 358 was their choice for the X1/9. The first-year car have differences from the rest that followed. The introduction was essentially the European version with some very subtle changes to keep the Feds happy. They are most easily identified by the dainty bumper arrangement and the unique rear lower valance. The 1975 model year has a redesigned valance with removable grille and the addition of a bumper arrangement that was far less attractive. As well as unique seats, non-glass mounted side mirrors, and a lower "flush" engine cover give the '74 a more pleasing appearance. Sitting both side-by-side, the difference is visually significant and clear even to the casual observer. Estimates put the ’74 U.S. sales total at around 20,000 units. Stout sales for a specialized sports car, but small in terms of number of vehicles. With a low initial number and considering the ones lost to accident, abuse, attrition, and the propensity to be eaten alive by the tin worm, survivors are understandably far and few between 44 years later.
When I first acquired this car, I was drawn to it because it was advertised as “virtually rust free”. That turned out to be the case, but virtually is not quite the same as rust free. Having had more than a few of these over the years, a quick removal of the rear trunk tray revealed what every ’74 I’ve run across has had without exception; a rotted out lower trunk floor. The original design sandwiched the upper and lower floors between a layer of what is best described as attic insulation to shield the trunk from the heat of the exhaust system mounted right below it. Thermal cycling, moisture, and the insulation acting as a sponge eventually takes its toll on many of these, but the ‘74s are particularly vulnerable. The floor was removed and a new panel welded in place. It was seam sealed, shot with 2K primer, finished with the correct paint, and the floor was lined with 1700 degree aluminized catalytic converter shielding. This is a more modern alternative that eliminates the limitations of the insulation originally employed for the job.This fix should outlive the car.
Mechanically the car’s performance is remarkable and is in turn-key condition. In terms of comfort this is the most comfortable sports car I have ever been in.The suspension in this example has been refreshed, the handling and overall driving experience is second to none.The engine comes to life with a twist of the key and settles into a smooth idle. There are no knocks, smoke, or other issues. The timing belt was just changed in May of this year. The 1300 engine is an interference design, so its important to make sure the belt is up to the task. The choke cable was replaced and operates correctly. The car drives perfectly from dead cold. The engine runs cool even during extended periods of idling and just the other day it had no issues when the mercury topped 105 degrees. The transmission shifts well, but it should be mindfully shifted until fully warmed up. The 2nd to 3rd syncros in the 4-speed are sometimes notchy, but it works fine after the fluid is warmed to operating temperature. The fluid should probably be upgraded to Redline MTL, but I’ll leave that to the new caretaker.The brakes stop well with no unusual noise or pulsation.

The paint looks nicer than your average driver. It’s not show quality but shows very well.There are few if any scratches or chips visible. The interior while not perfect, looks far above average as well. The dash sports a couple of obligatory cracks, but a custom top cover conceals most of it well. The gauge cluster was fitted with a new clear acrylic cover, as almost all the early cars had their original cover “cloud” so badly you couldn’t see the gauges. The seat covers, carpeting, and door panels look to have been replaced, and while the door panels have speakers present there is no radio fitted. The cooling system fan has been wired for manual operation via a hidden dash toggle switch. I don’t have much faith in the automatic sensor originally fitted, but if you would like to try your luck I am including a new radiator sensor.The tires and battery are recent, but the Cromodora CD-91 wheels are obviously from a later model and not original to the car. The car currently runs sans front bumper blades, but the set is included should the new owner choose to fit them.The car has excellent glass.All the lighting operates as it should, including properly functioning "pop-up" headlights.

The occasional '74 project car does come up for sale - not often, but it does happen.The ones I've seen recently are garage/barn finds that have sat for the past 20-30 years.They usually don't run, need everything, and the asking prices are significant.To see a completed 74' in this shape is extremely rare, and one for sale in this condition is even rarer.If you would rather be driving, rather than working on a project for years then take a close look at this one.It is an opportunity not often repeated. The current mileage shows just over 79,000 miles.I have no way to documents if that is actual, but the prior title shows a progression that makes me think there is a better than average chance it is.

I’m sure I haven’t covered everything, so please ask any and all questions by hitting the contact seller link. As with all the older classics, they are rarely ever perfect, and something always pops-up that needs attention, but this example is well sorted, honest example. I wouldn’t classify this one as a full restoration, but I think some areas like the paint and interior has been refreshed, while the suspension, steering, etc. has been cared for with whatever replacement parts were required.Please remember, this car is 44 YEARS OLD - this example is very nice, but it is NOT a brand-new car.Study the pictures carefully and ASK ALL YOUR QUESTIONS prior to buying. This comes with a CLEAN / CLEAR CALIFORNIA TITLE IN MY NAME, and the title matches the VIN plate in the door jamb, the windshield, and is stamped on the inside of the front trunk sheet metal, and as California buyers know, IT IS SMOG EXEMPT.
All transportation arrangements whether by carrier or any other means are the responsibility of the buyer. I will do everything on my end to assist your carrier in meeting their scheduling issues. For any overseas buyers, the car is approximately an hour from the Port of Los Angeles and should not present any problem for your broker to arrange easy transport and shipping to your location.
A non-refundable $500.00 deposit is required via Paypal immediately upon auction close. Failure to post the deposit as indicated will lead to sale cancellation. The balance is payable in cash, or wire transfer within 3 days of auction close. Vehicle needs to be picked upwithin 2 weeksof auction close. All funds must clear my bank before the vehicle leaves without exception. Should go without saying but the vehicle is sold AS IS, WHERE IS, and is WITHOUT WARRANTY of ANY kind. Only you can determine if it is suited for your intended use, and there are no returns or refunds under any circumstances. You buy it, you own it.

Thanks for taking a look!