Il 22 September of the 2000 mark the fend of a piece of motoring history Italian. In fact, on this date the production of the historic Fiat 126, one of Italy's most iconic cars.
Production of the machine began in 1972 and continued until 2000. Its marketing in Western Europe ended in 1991, while production and sales continued in Poland since 1973, where the last factory was closed. It was the last rear-engined, rear-wheel drive car produced by Fiat.
The Fiat 126 was a enormous commercial success. In Italy it was the best-selling car for over twenty years, with over 3,3 million units produced, but it also had great success in Poland, Germany, France and Spain.
The birth
The history of the Fiat 126 has start in 1972, when Fiat decided to replace his famous 500. The 126, designed by Sergio Sartorelli, was destined to become, in fact, the successor to the 500 and to continue the tradition of Fiat's small and accessible cars. According to the directives, the new car had to be more modern and comfortable, but also more economical.
The first model was presented at the Motor Show of Turin in 1972.
The quality characteristics
The Fiat 126 retained the air-cooled rear engine of the Fiat 500, but introduced notable improvements. The design was more modern and aerodynamic, with a slightly sloped front. The interior, although compact, offered better comfort than the Fiat 500 and was surprisingly roomy for its size.
The car was 3,05 meters long, 1,40 meters wide and 1,35 meters high. The curb weight was 600 kg. The engine was an air-cooled 594 cc four-cylinder, which produced 23 hp. The car was immediately welcomed with enthusiasm by consumers.
La production of the Fiat 126 began in the Cassino plant. In 1973 production started also in Poland, in the Bielsko-Biała plant.
Success and popularity
The 126 quickly became a symbol of economic mobility for Italian families. She was appreciated for her economy, reliability (easy to repair) and simple to drive. The economical engine and compact size made it ideal for the narrow streets of European cities and for daily use. Full tank at the time. it allows you to cover considerable distances, and effectively made the car accessible even to low-income families.
The Fiat 126 not only conquered the Italian market, but yes spread throughout Europe especially in much of Eastern Europe. Its popularity grew steadily over the years, and it was produced in several versions and variations. One of the most famous versions was the Fiat 126p, produced in Poland under license, where it became the people's car par excellence.
The Fiat 126 models
Over the years, the Fiat 126 has undergone some changes and improvements. In 1977, the Fiat 126 Bis was introduced, with a 26 horsepower engine that improved performance and efficiency. In 1987, the Fiat 126p, licensed by Fiat, was launched in Poland. There were other special versions, including the “Fiat 126p Bambino” and the “Fiat 126p Maluch,” which were suited to local markets.
The end of production
The Fiat 126 had a insurmountable limit due to the obsolescence of its design and technologies. As the automotive industry evolved, it failed to comply with safety regulations and increasing consumer expectations for comfort and performance, leading to its demise. Its production ended on September 22, 2000 replaced by the Fiat Seicento, a more modern and safe car.
In total, 1.352.912 examples were produced in Italy, 3.318.674 in Poland and 2.069 examples in Austria by Fiat-Steyr. The total sum also includes the models assembled in Yugoslavia by Zastava, which marketed them in the country as Zastava 126.
Collectible icon
The 126 is still there today a very popular car. The car has remained in the hearts of enthusiasts and continues to beloved by collectors of vintage cars. Events and gatherings dedicated to the 126, in fact, are still common in many countries.