New Spider Fan in Detroit

[HofDesigns]

Just cleaned out my garage and have space for a new project. Been looking at 911's but they're too expensive to get started on. Came across the Spider and its body design is fantastic. Both modern and classic at the same time. Seem to be plenty around for sale, too. Nervous about the mechanics, though. Any tips in what to avoid/look for in buying my first spider? Bad years? Good years?

Thanks

[rlux4]

Hello HOF, welcome aboard.
These are fantastic cars, and luckily, very affordable. As far as which year(s) are the best, whichever year is owned by us is usually considered the best. They're all great.
Mechanically they're fairly easy to work on, so the first thing to look for is rust. They have unibody, so an underbody inspection is critical. Shock mounts (towers) and frame/suspension connecting points are where you'll need to check.
Keep us informed how your search is going.
Ron

[baltobernie]

Oh, come on Ron. Don't be so magnanimous. You know what you want to write.

[rlux4]

Busted.
Ron (Charter member of the "82 Is The Best Year Fiat Spider Ever Made" club.

[kristoj]

'82s are definitely the best Some folks prefer the early small bumper models as they look a little cleaner than the later 5 MPH crash bumpers. Another important distinction is fuel injection vs. carb. FI was available on California models begining in 1980 and standard on all Spiders thereafter. Some prefer the carb models for there mechanical simplicity, while others (myself included) prefer the reliability smoothness of the FI cars.

As Ron pointed out, rust is the biggest issue. Do not be intimidated by the mechanicals. These cars are incredibly simple to maintain -- especially with great support like this forum. Parts are readily available from several suppliers and tend to be very inexpensive. I also own a 911 and the parts for that car are generally two to three times more expensive. I find the 911 to be more difficult to work on as well since the engine compartment is so compact.

[Exit98]

HOF, all years are great, but 1972 is the year to get if you can find one. 71 & 73 work too. They are the best of the bunch.

PS I've got a 76.

Look out for rust.

Lots o fun.

[HofDesigns]

thanks for the advice. Today I was on the way, cash in hand, to buy a 1980 when the owner called and said he sold it to his neighbor. I'm bummed out but still searching.

[mdrburchette]

Here's an absolutely beautiful car in North Carolina from a FLU club member. It may still be available:

http://fluforum.italiancarclub.com/viewtopic.php?t=3687