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2014 Shannons Melbourne Late Summer Classic Auction
Lot
1

1969 Fiat 125 Sedan

$5,500

Sold

Specifications

Engine In-line 4-cylinder, 1608cc
Gearbox 4-speed manual
Body Work Saloon
Colour White
Interior Black
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Steel disc
Brakes Drums

Description

This lot is no longer available

Fiat's largest family car of the late 1960s was the 125, built in both sedan and estate car variations. Sharing its platform with the 1300/1500 range, the 125 had new styling that was similar to the 124, albeit stretched to fit the extended wheelbase and endowing the passenger compartment with generous rear legroom. The 125 employed Fiat's lusty twin-cam four-cylinder motor with a single Solex carburettor, developing a very healthy 90 bhp and driving through a four-speed manual gearbox (the more powerful 125S received a five-speed 'box in 1968). A facelifted version of the 125 Special appeared in 1970, with revised front and rear lighting and the option of a three-speed automatic transmission. Production of the 125 ceased in 1972 and it was replaced by the 132, although cars were built under licence in Poland, Yugoslavia and even Argentina. Dating from an era when Fiat were at the top of their game and building family cars with genuine sporting pretensions, the 125 is still a delight to drive today, with direct steering, a free-revving engine and wonderful gearchange. However the attrition rate over the years has seen most Fiats of the day disappear from our roads, partly due to the lack of rustproofing and also thanks to the number of owners who enjoyed spirited driving, making those that have escaped all too rare.