Fiat Panda 4x4

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This is one of the first series Fiat Pandas dating from 1985 and has a certificate from the Automotoclub Storico Italiano to prove it.

Blessed with the Steyr 4x4 drive system, it will boldly go where few others can as long as its 965cc engine (detuned to 48bhp) is up to it.

This car is fitted with the ‘Lux’ interior option (black vinyl) but it does has the deckchair-style seats which are surprisingly comfortable. The Panda cognoscenti among you will already have noticed the signature lower-half panelling in black and the indented bootlid and stroked your beards approvingly.

There is not much history with this car but it does appear someone took it seriously, judging by the chunky M&S tyres. You may laugh, but those with experience of these sure-footed little beasts will know how handy they are off-road. Not yet UK-registered, it does have Italian paperwork and a NOVA reference so this should be straightforward.

The car has clearly been used (and used by Italians…) but it is basically sound – don’t be misled by the wobbly plastic trims – and is a worthwhile project. These Panda 4x4s have a cult following (our own Matthew Parkin swears by his) and there are only a few of these early ones left on the road so there is no doubt that it will become as collectible as it is practical.