New member from San Diego

[Todd]

I don't have a Fiat Spider yet, but I'm actively looking for one. Does anyone recommend carb. or FI?

[rlux4]

Welcome Todd. I'm up the 5 a ways; Lancaster. I got my car closer to your neighbohood than mine, Huntington Beach. I wanted a later model, so FI it is. I'm not an expert by any stretch, but it does seem to be a more efficient fuel delivery system. In my younger days I spent some time as an auto mechanic while in college. I know engines and carbs OK but I'm in the process of learning the ins and outs of FI. Good luck in your car search, I think we get quite a few good ones to pick from here in California, Vegas, and Phoenix.

[So Cal Mark]

since you're in Calif, smog inspections will be a factor in any Fiat you purchase. All cars 1976 and newer have to be inspected. It's somewhat difficult to get the carb'd Spiders to pass the test; they were never meant to run as clean as the standards are now. So, that should narrow your choices to 75 and older or 1980 and newer (FI cars). As a newbie to Fiats, I'd suggest an FI car over an early car. They have much better driveability and it's easier to find a good condition FI model than an early car. But it depends on what your plans for the car are; if you want to make any performance mods, go with a pre 76 model. If you want a decent every day driver go for an FI car.

[Todd]

OK thanks guys. It will be my 2nd car but still think I'm leaning towards a FI. Do you think it would be hard to smog a FI that has performance cams and pistons?

[So Cal Mark]

not if it has a mild cam, and that's all you really want with a stock FI engine anyway

[Todd]

What performance mods on a FI would be hard to smog?

[So Cal Mark]

since all of the equipment has to be in place and functioning, you'd be limited anyway. If you replace the exhaust with a more free-flowing system you will still need a catalyst. A mild cam won't upset HC readings too much. You could also replace the air filter box with a K&N type filter

[Leesfer]

Todd, don't know if you are still in the market for a Fiat but there is a beautiful white on red (I believe it is a 74 because of the chrome bumpers) on Mission Gorge Rd