🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Polski Fiat

Model:

125p

Year:

1980

Engine Variants Covered:

1300cc, 1500cc

Model Code:

125p

Engine Code 1300:

FSO 1300 (derived from Fiat 125 engine)

Engine Code 1500:

FSO 1500 (derived from Fiat 125 engine)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics of the Polski Fiat 125p, particularly those seeking to source and fit genuine or equivalent spare parts.

Value Proposition:

Empowers DIY repairs and part sourcing, potentially saving significant labor costs compared to dealership or independent garage reliance solely on their own parts inventories.

Feature 1:

Comprehensive exploded diagrams for precise part identification.

Feature 2:

Part numbering system for accurate ordering.

Feature 3:

Covers both 1300cc and 1500cc engine variants, common in the 1980 model year.

Feature 4:

Aids in understanding vehicle assembly and disassembly for repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Scope:

Spare Parts Specifications and Diagrams for Ordering and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Varies based on specific edition, typically 100-250 pages for a comprehensive parts catalog/repair manual.

Type:

Parts Catalog / Repair Manual (with focus on parts identification)

Language:

Likely Polish, potentially with some English terminology for common part names.

Format:

Physical printed manual (implied by description)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

1300cc and 1500cc engine component identification, gaskets, seals, piston assemblies, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, cooling system components, lubrication system components.

Transmission:

Gearbox components, clutch assembly, drive shafts, shift linkage parts.

Chassis:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system parts, braking system components (master cylinder, calipers, drums, shoes, lines), wheel bearings.

Electrical System:

Ignition system components, lighting components, starter motor, alternator, battery, wiring harness components (connectors, terminals), dashboard instruments.

Bodywork:

Exterior body panels (doors, fenders, hood, trunk lid), bumpers, grilles, trim pieces, glass and seals, interior trim panels, seats, dashboard components.

Fuel System:

Carburetor components, fuel lines, fuel pump, fuel tank and associated fittings.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter (if applicable for the year/market).

Repair Guidance:

While primarily a parts catalog, the exploded views and diagrams provide essential visual guidance for disassembly and reassembly during repair.

Parts Identification:

Crucial for identifying correct replacement parts by part number and visual representation.

Troubleshooting:

Indirectly supports troubleshooting by helping to identify worn or damaged components that require replacement.

Depth:

Detailed exploded views and part numbering for component-level replacement. Focus is on identification and ordering, with implied repair knowledge.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Physical Print

Quality:

Typically of a professional workshop manual standard for the era, with clear diagrams. Quality may vary with age.

Binding:

Likely stapled or perfect bound for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Paper:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

1295 cc

Engine 1 Configuration:

Inline-4, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

82 mm x 60 mm (approximate)

Engine 2 Displacement:

1481 cc

Engine 2 Configuration:

Inline-4, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

88 mm x 62 mm (approximate)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

60 hp (DIN) @ 5000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

93 Nm (DIN) @ 3000 rpm

Engine 2 Horsepower:

70 hp (DIN) @ 5200 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

106 Nm (DIN) @ 3000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Single Barrel Downdraft Carburetor (e.g., Weber 32 DFC, Solex 32 SEIA variants)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (as of 1980s regulations, leaded may still be common)

Ignition System:

Breaker point ignition system with distributor and coil.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual Synchromesh

Type:

5-speed Manual Synchromesh (less common for 1980, but possible upgrade or later variant)

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated (typically).

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4355 mm

Width:

1625 mm

Height:

1460 mm

Wheelbase:

2745 mm

Track Front:

1355 mm

Track Rear:

1330 mm

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1120-1170 kg (depending on engine and equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approximately 1570 kg

Towing Capacity:

Typically not specified for this model, generally limited.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

No modern crash test ratings available for this era and origin. Safety standards were significantly different.

Braking System Front:

Disc Brakes

Braking System Rear:

Drum Brakes

Parking Brake:

Mechanical, acting on rear wheels.

Seat Belts:

Likely standard front seat belts (2-point or 3-point depending on specific build and market).

Headrests:

Front seat headrests (may be optional or integrated).

Windshield:

Laminated safety glass.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often aftermarket installation. No integrated infotainment systems.

Features:

None (era-appropriate, no electronic driver aids).

Features:

None (no provisions for external device connectivity).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Manual will specify exact interval.

Oil Filter Change:

At every oil change.

Air Filter Change:

Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years.

Engine Oil:

API SF/CD or SE/CC, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 recommended depending on climate. Manual will list specific Fiat or FSO specification.

Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Issue 1:

Carburetor tuning and maintenance (prone to wear and maladjustment).

Issue 2:

Rust and corrosion, particularly on body panels, sills, and wheel arches.

Issue 3:

Electrical system reliability, especially connections and grounding points.

Issue 4:

Suspension wear (bushings, ball joints) due to road conditions.

Issue 5:

Clutch wear and potential issues with the hydraulic slave cylinder.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Polski Fiat, a state-owned enterprise in Poland, produced vehicles under license from Fiat.

Base Model:

Based on the Fiat 125, launched in 1967. The Polski Fiat 125p was a significant local adaptation.

Key Differences From Fiat:

Often featured simpler, more robust components suitable for local manufacturing and less advanced infrastructure, including different engines and suspension tuning.

Production Period:

1967-1991 (for the 125p range overall). 1980 represents a mid-to-late production year for this model.

Manufacturing Location:

Warsaw, Poland (Fabryka Samochodów Osobowych - FSO).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Significance:

The Polski Fiat 125p was a highly significant car in Poland, representing aspiration and modern mobility for many families during the communist era. It was often referred to as the 'Polish Mercedes' due to its perceived robustness and comfort for the time.

Consumer Reputation:

Generally regarded as a durable and repairable vehicle, though prone to rust and requiring regular maintenance. Its simplicity made it relatively easy to work on.