🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

127

Year:

1979

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Fiat 127 was a highly successful supermini that dominated European city car sales in the late 1970s and early 1980s, known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordable pricing. This manual caters to the growing segment of owners who wish to maintain and repair these classic vehicles themselves.

Competitive Analysis:

In its era, the 127 competed directly with vehicles like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Renault 5, and Peugeot 104. Its innovative transverse engine and front-wheel-drive layout, pioneered in the original 1971 model, set new standards for compact car packaging. This manual provides the specific technical knowledge required to keep these efficient and enjoyable vehicles running.

Key Features:

Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures, detailed diagrams, troubleshooting guidance, maintenance schedules, and an emphasis on DIY empowerment for Fiat 127 owners.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Axle

Page Count:

Not specified, but comprehensive coverage implies substantial length

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (including fuel injection, emission, and control systems), Transmission, Brakes, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), Suspension, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel System, Chassis, Body, Axles, Restraint System

Procedures Included:

Disassembly, Reassembly, Repair, Servicing, Maintenance, Refurbishment, Renovation, Mending, Fixing, Troubleshooting, Diagnostic procedures, Periodic Lubrication

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth repair and renovation, suitable for both novice DIY enthusiasts and experienced technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Operating System Compatibility:

All versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1049 cc (1.1 L) Fiat Type 100 Series inline-four cylinder

Typical Horsepower:

Approximately 49-55 hp depending on market and exact configuration (e.g., single-barrel carburetor vs. twin-barrel).

Typical Torque:

Around 72-77 Nm (53-57 lb-ft) at 3000-3500 rpm.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (typically a Solex or Weber 30/32 DIDTA for the 1049cc engine). The manual covers fuel system troubleshooting, cleaning, and adjustment.

Engine Layout:

Transverse, front-wheel drive.

Ignition System:

Conventional distributor-based ignition system, with specific procedures for timing adjustment and component replacement.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual transaxle.

Optional Transmission:

Some later or specific market models might have had a 5-speed manual or automatic option, though less common for the 1979 model year and likely covered by this comprehensive manual.

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate clutch, with service procedures for inspection, adjustment, and replacement.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2,175 mm (85.6 inches)

Length:

Approximately 3,660 mm (144.1 inches)

Width:

Approximately 1,590 mm (62.6 inches)

Height:

Approximately 1,370 mm (53.9 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 720-770 kg (1,587-1,698 lbs) depending on equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

As a 1970s European car, formal crash test ratings from modern agencies are not directly comparable. The manual will detail structural components and safety-related systems of its time.

Active Safety Features:

Hydraulic dual-circuit braking system, typically front disc and rear drum brakes. Steering and suspension geometry contribute to roadholding.

Passive Safety Features:

Safety glass all around, padded dashboard, seat belts (typically lap belts in front and rear). The manual covers seat belt maintenance and body integrity.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic for its era, typically a push-button or analog radio. The manual covers the electrical system, which includes radio installation and wiring.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focus is on fundamental vehicle operation and mechanical systems.

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. The manual will provide precise intervals.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plug replacement, ignition timing, and carburetor adjustments typically recommended every 15,000 - 20,000 km (9,000 - 12,500 miles).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 API SF or SG quality oil is commonly recommended. Manual will specify precise viscosity and API service classification.

Coolant Specification:

A 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water. Manual will confirm specific type and capacity.

Transmission Fluid Specification:

GL-4 manual transmission fluid, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual will list exact specification and capacity.

Common Issues:

Rust (particularly on wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms), carburetor issues (tuning, wear), electrical gremlins (especially wiring connections), clutch wear, and suspension component wear are common. The manual addresses troubleshooting and repair for these.

Lubrication Points:

Periodic lubrication points include suspension joints, steering linkage, and wheel bearings, as detailed in the 'Periodic Lubrication' section.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Fiat (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) is one of Italy's oldest and most significant automotive manufacturers, renowned for producing innovative and popular vehicles across various segments, including the iconic Fiat 500 and 600, leading into the modern compact design of the 127.

Model Evolution:

The Fiat 127 was first introduced in 1971, winning the European Car of the Year award in 1972. The 1979 model year represents the Series 2 facelift, featuring revised styling (e.g., new bumpers, grille, revised interior) and often minor mechanical updates. This manual focuses specifically on the Series 2 1979 iteration.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Italy, but also produced under license in various countries including Spain (SEAT 127), Poland (Polski Fiat 127p), and Brazil (Fiat 147, which evolved from the 127).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

European Car Of The Year:

The original Fiat 127 model won the European Car of the Year award in 1972, highlighting its pioneering design and market impact. While this is for the original model, it underscores the significance of the platform.