Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Small Sports Convertible
Target Demographic:
Enthusiasts, those seeking stylish and enjoyable open-top motoring.
Key Competitors:
Other small Italian convertibles of the era, potentially some smaller German or British offerings depending on specific market.
Design Philosophy:
Italian styling, focus on open-air driving experience, sporty handling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners to maintain and repair a classic Italian convertible, preserving its operational condition and value.
Comprehensive Coverage:
Yes
Specific Models Covered:
Fiat 1500 Cabriolet (All trim levels, engine options, and transmission types within the 1966-1979 range)
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several hundred pages, typical for a full factory service manual covering a decade of production.
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Digital Download
Powertrain Engine:
Engine mechanicals, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control.
Powertrain Transmission:
Transmission (likely manual, potentially automatic if offered), clutch, driveline.
Chassis Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, steering.
Chassis Brakes:
Brake system components (hydraulic, mechanical), front and rear brakes (likely drum or disc depending on specification).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, gauges, accessories.
Body And Interior:
Bodywork, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, body seals, doors, windows.
Maintenance:
Periodic maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Repair Engine:
Engine assembly/disassembly, valve adjustments, piston ring replacement, bearing services.
Repair Transmission:
Transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, gearbox repairs.
Repair Brakes:
Brake fluid bleeding, brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder servicing.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Fault diagnosis for various systems, troubleshooting common issues.
Electrical Repair:
Diagnosis and repair of electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair.
Body Repair:
Body panel repair, convertible top adjustment and repair.
Depth Of Information:
Complete factory-level detail, including exploded views, torque specifications, and step-by-step instructions for disassembly, assembly, and repair.
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself owners and professional mechanics.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
Approximately 1481 cc (1.5 Liters) for the '1500' designation.
Bore X Stroke:
Specifics to be found in the manual, but typically around 78 mm x 79.5 mm.
Compression Ratio:
Likely in the range of 8.5:1 to 9.5:1, depending on specific engine tune.
Horsepower:
Approximately 72-78 HP (SAE Gross) depending on market and exact configuration.
Torque:
Specific figures to be found in manual, but typically around 110-120 Nm.
Fuel Delivery:
Likely Carbureted (e.g., Solex, Weber twin-choke carburetor(s)).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (or leaded in earlier years, convertible to unleaded with modifications).
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 liters (including filter), to be confirmed in manual.
Oil Specification:
Likely SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, with API classification suitable for the era (e.g., SG or equivalent), potentially requiring zinc additive for flat-tappet camshafts.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
Possible 5-speed manual or automatic transmission offered on later models or specific markets, though less common for this model.
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch, hydraulically operated.
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90), capacity approximately 1.5 - 2.0 liters.
Length:
Approx. 3940 mm (155.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1570 mm (61.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1290 mm (50.8 in) (top up)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2200 mm (86.6 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 980 kg (2160 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
To be confirmed in manual, but typically around 1250-1350 kg.
Tire Sizes:
Typically 155 SR 13 or 165 HR 13.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x108 mm.
Wheel Offset:
ET 20-25 approx.
Crash Test Results:
No formal crash test ratings available for this era and vehicle type comparable to modern standards.
Braking System:
Hydraulic dual-circuit braking system. Front: Disc brakes on later models, or drum brakes. Rear: Drum brakes.
Seatbelts:
Lap belts typically standard, shoulder belts optional or standard on later models depending on market. Manual would detail installation and adjustment.
Chassis Construction:
Monocoque chassis with body integrated for rigidity, designed for the era.
Audio System:
Likely a period-correct AM/FM radio, possibly with an optional upgraded unit or provision for aftermarket installation.
Dashboard Instruments:
Speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure light, ammeter/voltmeter, warning lamps. Manual details operation and calibration.
Braking Assist:
None (e.g., ABS, EBD).
Connectivity Features:
None beyond basic automotive systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, as detailed in the manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000 - 20,000 km (9,000 - 12,000 miles).
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 km (18,000 miles).
Tune Up Recommendation:
Recommended annually or every 10,000-15,000 km for optimal performance and economy.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixture (50/50 with distilled water), meeting the specifications of the era.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Grease Type:
Lithium-based general purpose grease for chassis lubrication points.
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor tuning, ignition points and condenser, clutch wear, suspension bushings, rust (especially in wheel arches and sills).
Convertible Top Wear:
Wear and tear on the fabric top, weatherstripping degradation, and mechanism lubrication/adjustment.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many cars of this vintage, occasional electrical issues related to wiring age and corrosion can occur.
Manufacturer:
Fiat (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino)
Brand Focus:
Historically known for producing practical, affordable, and often stylish small cars.
Base Model Heritage:
Derived from the Fiat 1300/1500 saloon and coupe models, sharing core mechanicals but with a distinct Pininfarina-designed convertible body.
Cabriolet Development:
Designed by Pininfarina, this model offered a more upscale and sporty image compared to the saloon variants.
Production Period:
The 1500 platform and its derivatives were produced from the early 1960s through the late 1970s, with the Cabriolet model fitting within this timeframe.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Italy.
