Market Position:
These Fiat Cabriolets were positioned as stylish, sporty, and relatively affordable Italian convertibles in their era, appealing to enthusiasts seeking open-top driving pleasure and European flair.
Competitors:
Competed with other European convertibles and sporty coupes of the era, such as various Alfa Romeo models, Lancia Fulvia Coupe, and possibly smaller MG and Triumph models from the UK.
Key Features Vehicle:
Attractive Pininfarina styling, reliable Fiat engines, engaging handling, convertible body style offering open-air motoring.
Key Features Manual:
Comprehensive coverage, detailed diagrams and illustrations, step-by-step instructions, instant download access, designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Braking System, Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Gauges and Instruments, Accessory Systems
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass
Maintenance:
Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacement, Tune-up Procedures, Battery Maintenance
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Gear Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Bodywork Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures for Engine Performance, Electrical Issues, Braking Problems, and Other Common Faults
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and exploded views for part identification and reassembly.
1500 Engine Displacement:
1481 cc (approx. 90.4 cu in)
1500 Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, OHC (Overhead Camshaft)
1500 Engine Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 80.0 mm x 74.0 mm
1500 Engine Horsepower:
Approx. 72-75 HP (SAE Gross)
1500 Engine Torque:
Approx. 81-85 lb-ft (SAE Gross)
1600S Engine Displacement:
1592 cc (approx. 97.1 cu in)
1600S Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
1600S Engine Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 82.0 mm x 74.0 mm
1600S Engine Horsepower:
Approx. 90-96 HP (SAE Gross)
1600S Engine Torque:
Approx. 95-100 lb-ft (SAE Gross)
Top Speed:
Estimated 150-165 km/h (93-103 mph) depending on model and tune
1500 Carburetion:
Single Weber 34 DCLD or Solex C30PHH carburetor
1600S Carburetion:
Twin Weber 40 DCOE or Solex C32 DIPA carburetors
Fuel Type:
Leaded gasoline (prior to unleaded transition, but manual will cover necessary adjustments for unleaded if applicable to later models or conversions)
Transmission Type:
4-speed manual synchromesh
Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual (potentially available on later 1600S models, verification needed)
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios will be detailed in the manual (e.g., typical ratios for Fiat OHC engines).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2280 mm (89.8 inches)
Length:
Approx. 3980 mm (156.7 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1580 mm (62.2 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1250 mm (49.2 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs), depending on model and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Specific GVWR will be detailed in the manual.
Wheelbase:
2280 mm (89.8 in)
Crash Test Data:
No formal crash test ratings typically available for vehicles of this era by modern standards. Manual may cover structural integrity and basic safety component information.
Brakes Front:
Disc brakes (likely Girling or Dunlop) on later models or 1600S, drums on earlier 1500 models. Manual will specify.
Seat Belts:
May be standard or optional depending on original market and year. Manual will cover fitment and maintenance if applicable.
Windshield:
Laminated safety glass (standard in most markets by this time).
Infotainment System:
Basic, likely an AM/FM radio, possibly with an optional multiplex stereo. No advanced infotainment features.
Driver Assistance Features:
None by modern standards. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.
Connectivity Features:
None.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on usage. Manual will provide exact intervals and oil types.
Tune Up Interval:
Recommended at similar intervals to oil changes or as needed based on performance. Manual will detail ignition timing, carburetor adjustments, etc.
Engine Oil Type:
Likely SAE 20W-50 or 20W-40 for mineral oil, suitable for the era. Manual will specify exact viscosity and API service classification.
Coolant Type:
Water-glycol mixture. Manual will detail the specific ratio and type of antifreeze.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (manual will specify). Critical for system performance and safety.
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 gear oil (likely SAE 80W-90 or 90W). Manual will confirm.
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 gear oil (likely SAE 90 or 80W-90). Manual will confirm.
Common Issues:
Rusting in common areas (wheel arches, sills, floor pans), carburetor tuning sensitivity, electrical system aging (corrosion, faulty switches), wear on convertible top mechanism, potential for engine wear if maintenance was neglected.
Tune Up Notes:
Maintaining correct ignition timing, spark plug gap, and carburetor synchronization is crucial for optimal performance and fuel economy. The manual will provide precise settings.
Brand Heritage:
FIAT (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) has a long and rich history in automotive manufacturing, known for producing accessible, innovative, and often sporty vehicles.
Model Evolution:
The 1500 Cabriolet and its successor, the 1600S Cabriolet, were part of Fiat's lineup of stylish Italian roadsters and convertibles, often designed by renowned Italian coachbuilders like Pininfarina.
Production Years:
FIAT 1500 Cabriolet: Approx. 1961-1963. FIAT 1600S Cabriolet: Approx. 1963-1966.
Production Location:
Italy