According to wikipedia:
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiat_X1/9 )
"
The first models featured a 75 bhp (56 kW) 1290 cc single overhead cam
engine with an aluminium head. In this form, the car had less than dramatic
performance, hampered somewhat by the surprisingly heavy body shell. The
weight largely stems from the immense strength of the bodyshell, built to
give the car the same crash resistance in US crash tests as a sedan.
Ironically while the X1/9 passed these tests, many standard US models of the
day failed them, and eventually the test criteria were relaxed. However, the
design was complete by then and so the bodyshell stiffness is considerable
for a car of its type, and it also allows power plants of much greater power
to be fitted without modification of the standard shell.
"
-----Original Message-----
David Lieb wrote:
> Interesting article on the Fiat X1/9 in a recent issue of Hemmings
> Sports & Exotic Cars. I found it hard to believe how heavy the car is.
When the X1/9 was designed, there was rumor/fear that the Feds were going
to mandate outrageous standards for rollover safety, so FIAT overbuilt the
X1/9 and used a targa top. The standards never happened.
--
Kent McLean
'56 100 BN2
_______________________________________________
Support Team.Net http://www.team.net/donate.html
http://www.team.net/archive
http://autox.team.net/mailman/listinfo/spridgets
|