 Barchetta
is designed as a direct competitor against the successful Mazda MX-5.
That
Japanese roadster was launched as early as 1990 and created a new trend
for affordable roadster. For 6 years there was not a single competitior
emerged, therefore it can enjoy the monopoly of this market in all over
the world until the arrival of Barchetta. During the 6 years, Fiat was
probably very jealous, since it is Fiat who invented affordable
roadster
by 850 Spyder.
To save cost and development time, Barchetta is based on the tiny Punto platform - all understructure and suspensions are carried over, except the front overhang is extended a lot to create a sleeker nose. Engine is of course one of the member of SUPER FIRE family, i.e., a variable valve timing version of Brava's 1.8 litres 16 valves four. Power and torque may not be too impressive at 130hp and 121lbft, but at least it is stronger than MX-5's in bottom end. Barchetta is purposefully styled. It is quite beautiful and niche despite looking short. Styling of interior is also good. Overall build quality is as good as Japanese. Base on the front
drive Punto
chassis, the improvement is considerable - rigidity, grip and balance
are
better than MX-5, but lacks the final degree of steering feel and
throttle-oversteering
that make the Japanese car so popular for 6 years. Rear wheel drive is
still better than front. |
| The above report was last updated in 1998. All Rights Reserved. |