1991 Fiat Uno 45S 1.0 from Portugal
Summary:
Cheap, friendly, good car to learn driving in
Faults:
Almost everything went wrong except the engine that keeps on running.
I changed the gearbox bearings, changed the clutch, put in a new carburettor, reviewed all the high voltage parts, spark plugs, etc.
Water infiltration, oil consumption, brake problems and corrosion are usual with every Fiat Uno I have seen.
The steering requires periodical checking for safety.
General Comments:
The mechanics of the car are surely well designed, otherwise the engine wouldn't have been on the market for 15 years. However, the car requires permanent care, and given the rather simple structure and devices involved, it is recommended for young people who wish to gain some insight in the area.
Petrol consumption is easy to be keet low if some care is taken with cleaning the carburettor once in a while.
The car's dynamics are awful, the chassis bends all over itself under the slightest demand, and reveals itself very soft in the case of a crash. Much care must be taken when driving!!
Humidity really affects the car, both in the electricals and upholstery.
The car is ideal for city driving, and doesn't mind an occasional stroll to the countryside, however, I wouldn't pass the 60 mph cruising speed. Call me a sissy if you wish!!!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 4th December, 2000
18th Nov 2002, 20:15
I've had my little Uno 45s for over 3 years, I learned to drive in it, I've been all over the country in it, and it just keeps on going, slowly, but it keeps going. It certainly doesn't like the cold weather, and I've spent more than its worth in getting it through MOT's. the gear box rattles and is sloppy as hell, and there's a loosing battle with rust going on. But I love it, its been there with me through the best years of my life, and I'll be sorry to see it go. But come the summer, I'll have my dream car A FORD CAPRI!!! Why do I get a slightly queasy feeling in my stomach when I say that? Ah well. "the only true dreams, are the dreams of a fool."
30th Jul 2001, 13:52
You are a sissy, my Uno gets to 90mph easy. I used it to Glasgow, London, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool at different times and it still moves like a baby. Although the brakes are temperamental.