Fiat 128 Rally
The Fiat 128 was arguably the most influential car design of the 20th century. Engineered by Dante Giacosa, the 128 pioneered the transverse-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with an end-on gearbox that would become the standard template for virtually every small and mid-size car produced since. This packaging breakthrough, combined with the new SOHC engine with a belt-driven camshaft (another first), independent suspension on all four wheels, and remarkably spacious interior for its class, earned the 128 the European Car of the Year award in 1970 and prompted one industry observer to declare it 'the most significant car since the Mini.' The Rally variant, introduced in 1971, was the performance flagship with its 1.3-liter engine tuned to produce 67 horsepower, revised suspension, and sporty touches including special seats, additional instruments, and distinctive striping. Despite its modest output, the lightweight 128 Rally was a genuinely fun car to drive, with eager handling and a revvy engine character. Over 3 million 128s were produced worldwide, with licensed production continuing in Yugoslavia, Egypt, and other countries long after Italian production ended.
Rust is the 128's mortal enemy — Italian steel of the era was notoriously corrosion-prone. Check everywhere, especially sills, floor pans, inner wings, and suspension turrets. The SOHC engine is willing and parts remain available through Italian specialist suppliers. Rally versions are significantly more collectible than base models. Many survivors are in warm climates.
Over 3 million Fiat 128s were produced at Mirafiori and through licensed production worldwide. The Rally variant was produced from 1971-1975. The 128's layout influenced the entire global auto industry.