FSO Polonez
A Giugiaro-styled hatchback body hiding rugged Fiat 125p mechanicals.
- Power
- 75 bhp
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$8k
About the FSO Polonez
Launched in 1978, the FSO Polonez was Poland's attempt at a modern family car, featuring a sharp hatchback body designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and Walter de Silva. Despite its contemporary looks, it was built on the aging chassis and mechanicals of the Polski Fiat 125p, resulting in a heavy car with leaf-spring rear suspension and modest performance. It was noted for its exceptional safety for the era, being one of the few Eastern Bloc cars designed to meet US crash standards. Today, early 'bore-eye' models are becoming sought-after classics in Eastern Europe as symbols of the PRL era.
FSO Polonez specs
The FSO Polonez produces 75 bhp (56 kW) and 113 Nm (83 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | FSO |
|---|---|
| Model | Polonez |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1978–1991 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Poland |
| Engine | 1.5-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,481 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 75 bhp (56 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 113 Nm (83 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,600 rpm |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,090 kg (2,403 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 69 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an FSO Polonez worth?
A typical FSO Polonez is estimated to be worth $2,000 – $8,000 (about £1,500 – £6,000).
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
FSO Polonez rarity in CarSpot
The FSO Polonez is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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.
FSO Polonez fun facts
- The car's name was chosen by the Polish public through a readers' poll in the newspaper Życie Warszawy.
- The Polonez was based on the Fiat ESV (European Safety Vehicle) prototype, making it one of the sturdiest cars in its class at the time.
- Early models are nicknamed 'Borewicz' in Poland, after the protagonist of the popular 1970s TV crime series '07 Zgłoś się' who drove one.