Fiat 128
The revolutionary Lampredi-powered saloon that defined the modern family car.
- Power
- 60 bhp
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$18k
About the Fiat 128
Introduced in 1969, the Fiat 128 was a landmark in automotive design, pioneering the transverse-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with unequal-length driveshafts that is now the industry standard. The 1300 CL (Comfort Luxe) arrived with the 1976 'Nuova 128' facelift, featuring plastic bumpers and a revised interior. Its high-revving SOHC engine was designed by legendary Ferrari engineer Aurelio Lampredi, offering surprising mechanical sophistication for an economy car. While prone to rust, a well-preserved 128 is celebrated for its sharp rack-and-pinion steering and remarkably spacious packaging.
Fiat 128 specs
The Fiat 128 produces 60 bhp (45 kW) and 96 Nm (71 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Fiat |
|---|---|
| Model | 128 |
| Trim | 1300 CL |
| Years | 1976–1979 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Italy |
| Original price | About $3,500 when new |
| Engine | 1.3-litre SOHC inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,290 cc (1.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 60 bhp (45 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 96 Nm (71 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 805 kg (1,775 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 75 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Fiat 128 worth?
A typical Fiat 128 is estimated to be worth $4,500 – $18,000 (about £3,400 – £13,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,500.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Fiat 128 rarity in CarSpot
The Fiat 128 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 22 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Fiat 128 fun facts
- Enzo Ferrari famously used a Fiat 128 as his personal daily driver for many years, admiring its clever engineering and handling.
- The 128's engine and gearbox layout was so efficient that Fiat claimed 80% of the car's total volume was dedicated to passengers and luggage.
- The 128 was the first car to feature a belt-driven overhead camshaft engine in mass production, a design choice that improved refinement and reduced weight.