Faults:

Gearbox lost the synchromesh on second gear at 60,000 miles and had to be reconditioned. Clutch replaced for good measure while the gearbox was out of the car.

Vacuum advance diaphragm had a leak causing the car to stall.

Distributor and points need replacing regularly to ensure proper cold / damp starting.

Timing belt went a week ago while doing 65mph - hadn't been replaced since the car had been purchased.

General Comments:

Good basic car which is amusing to drive!

The engine is unburstable, although acceleration when loaded is leisurely at best.

The FIRE engineering is non-interfering, so the timing belt failure had no serious consequences (it should have been changed at the appropriate time!).

Gearbox is a bit awkward and the brakes need a hard shove in order to stop you!

Extremely practical.

Not rusting very much, surprisingly.

Other than the gearbox problem, reliable.

Faults:

There were a few problems with the connections to the rear lights which required adjustment following a blown brake-light.

The brakes tended to make noises when slowing down gradually (no noises during emergency braking)

The fan-belt squealed in wet weather.

There is rust on the passenger door.

The roof is a 2 sunroof type, and these are made of waterproof canvas. However, the stitching had rotted in certain places so in heavy downpours the roof would leak.

General Comments:

As a vehicle for a person on a limited budget, this car is very economical.

The speed is not fast, but it will get you from A to B in relative comfort and with reliability.

As a talking point, the Panda is in a class of its own. This one has characteristics making it one of a kind.

When driving the Panda on the Motorway, the true basic design stands out, as the height means in windy conditions the car is buffeted and handling is not good.

The car never failed to start even in the coldest weather, or if it had been parked up for months.

Faults:

Normal wear and tear items, starter motor etc.

General Comments:

This is the third Fiat Panda we have owned. 1st was bought used, 2nd was new and this current model was used.

Bought for cheap practical motoring and has certainly been that. Has even toured France with 2 bikes on a rack, towing a fully laden trailer but still returned 56 to the gallon!