Used Fiat 1400

The Italian automobile manufacturer produced the Fiat 1400 from 1950 to 1958. The 1400 was initially introduced in 1950 at the Geneva Motor Show as a concept car. It was Fiat’s first chassisless automobile. There were three 1400 models: the 1400, the 1400 D, and the 1900 cc. Model 1400 employed a straight 4 OHV, 44–56 hp, 1395 cc single carburetor engine. The 1400 D model was powered by a straight 4 OHV, 40 hp 1901 cc diesel engines. On the other hand, the 1900 model had a straight 4 OHV 60–80 hp 1901 cc single carburetor engine. Both 1400 and 1400 D ran on diesel while the 1900 cc ran on petrol. Although basically the same except for the fuel used Fiat chose to call the latter 1900, possibly to distinguish the two from each other. The 1900 petrol was launched in 1954, the year all models in the range were given a major facelift. Fiat produced a total of 77,000 examples, including prototypes and pre-production cars, of the Fiat 1400. The Fiat 1400 was equipped with a 1.4 litre engine. Capacity was 44 horsepower capable of 4400 rpm. The car attained a maximum speed of 75 mph or 120 km/h. On its bare flanks, it weighs 1120 kg. Its hand braking gear box handle was located under the instrument panel and there were roof attached and backrest retaining loops intended for the safety of front passengers. There were also door armrests. The Motor, a British Automobile magazine, tested a 1400 cc model in 1950 right after the model was released to the public. The Testers of the Magazine found the 1400 capable of 119.7 mph and an accelerating capacity of 0–60 mph in a matter of 35.7 seconds. Fuel consumption was 24.2 miles per gallon, a relatively good figure for consumption levels at that time. The same magazine tested the 1400 diesel right after it received a facelift. Top speed recorded was 63.8 miles per hour and an acceleration speed of 0–60 mph in 45.2 seconds. This seemed considerably slower than the 1950 model, but the slight decrease in speed was adequately compensated by an excellent 33.9 miles per gallon fuel consumption. Fiat makes cars that last and the 1400 is no exception. Even today, there are still 1400 units around; but understandably, they have become collector’s items kept for memories of the past, rather than as a means of reliable transport. Parts are rare and expensive. For anyone looking for a used 1400, it is better to take an expert automotive technician along when a prospect is spotted.