We've ventured back into the Volkswagen 8V engine world recently. Making good power for cheap is very possible - if you're willing to sacrifice originality. Making good power on original style equipment is also possible - if you're willing to sacrifice unreasonable wads of cash.

The X1/9 and its 8V engine present a similar problem: do you keep it original and patiently tolerate the crossover SUVs tailgating you from very stoplight? Do you resort to an expensive, peaky engine build? What about a cheaper force-induction build? When you're done with either, you should be able to keep up with the 1.0L Ford fiestas at least. This isn't to say that a stock X1/9 wouldn't be enjoyable, but the environment on roads today does really require some urgent acceleration.

Year: 1980
Model:  Fiat X1/9
Engine: 1.5L 4-cylinder
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage:  91,325mi
Price: $7,900
Location: Traverse City, MI

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1980 Fiat X1/9

The Fiat X1/9 was built and manufactured by Fiat and Bertone from 1972-1989. They had a transverse engine and gear box mid-mounted in a rear-wheel drive configuration. They had retractable headlights, lightweight removable targa top with front and rear cargo areas. The 1980 version is fitted with a 1498 CC engine and was knows for there agility and handling. This particular X1/9 is somewhat of a project, however most is complete if you just want a driver. The mechanics of the car are great and a full engine re-build just happened not to long ago at over $3,000 plus odds and ends. This is the 5-speed manual variant. The car starts, runs, shifts and brakes and could be used as is. There are a few electrical demons that pose some attention as some cosmetics if you want to make it perfect. We are listing this as a drivable project with good tires and brakes and a cool amateur retro paint job. This is a nice entry level Italian car at this price with a lot already done. Receipts and service paperwork are available.

The seller lists this example as something of a project, citing electrical demons as well as cosmetic needs to be addressed. The paint was an amateur job, and we like the 70s color palette. Sadly, the regressive 70s palette works well on a car that didn't really catch up to the competition the 80s. The paintwork covers a body of unknown condition. We have seen repainted X1/9s with entire sills of Bondo, so we would want to inspect the bodywork on this example before getting serious.

Pricing on this example is high for a project car. We would imagine that something like this would be listed for half the price on the forums, but such is the way of classic car dealerships. Overall, we like the look of this one, and if the car checks out and the dealer is willing to make the right deal, this could make for an enjoyable winter project to get sorted by next spring.

-Graham