| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1970 |
| Production Years: | 1969 - 1982 discontinued in 1982 |
The Fiat 128 Familiare, introduced in 1970 and produced from 1969 to 1982, is a compact station wagon version of the popular Fiat 128 model. This generation highlighted Fiat's approach to practical family transportation by combining the front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout of the standard Fiat 128 with increased cargo and passenger space typical of station wagons. The Familiare offered enhanced versatility compared to the sedan, catering to families and users seeking additional storage without sacrificing the compact handling and efficiency Fiat was known for. Although specific dimension data for the 128 Familiare varies by model year and market, the vehicle generally maintained the compact length of around 3.9 meters (approximately 154 inches) with a width close to 1.6 meters (around 63 inches), and a height slightly taller due to the wagon body style for improved interior space. Weighing approximately 950 to 1,000 kilograms (about 2,094 to 2,205 pounds), the 128 Familiare balanced lightweight agility with practicality. Its production run through much of the 1970s into the early 1980s solidified Fiat’s place in the compact family car segment in Europe and other markets. The 128 Familiare remains a notable example of how Fiat adapted its small car platform into a versatile station wagon, delivering reliable performance, usability, and everyday comfort. Enthusiasts and families alike appreciate it for its historic significance and functional design in the era before compact SUVs became widespread.
Discover the standout features that make the 1970 Fiat 128 Familiare a leader in its class
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The Fiat 128 Familiare, produced from 1969 to 1982, measures approximately 3,940 mm (155.1 inches) in length, 1,610 mm (63.4 inches) in width, and around 1,390 mm (54.7 inches) in height. These compact dimensions made the Familiare a practical and manageable station wagon during its production era, offering sufficient space while maintaining a relatively small footprint suitable for urban environments.
The Fiat 128 Familiare station wagon offered enhanced cargo capacity compared to the 128 sedan and hatchback variants. With its extended rear section and flat load floor, the Familiare provided ample space for luggage and goods, making it a versatile choice for families and those needing extra storage. While exact cargo volume in liters may vary due to interior arrangements, the wagon's design significantly improved usability over the standard sedan configuration.
The Fiat 128 Familiare weighs approximately 925 kg (2,039 lbs) curb weight. This relatively light weight for a station wagon allowed the vehicle to maintain nimble handling and decent fuel efficiency characteristic of the Fiat 128 lineup. The lightweight construction helped optimize the modest engine power output, ensuring the Familiare remained practical and economical, especially important in the small family car segment of the 1970s and early 1980s.
Inside the Fiat 128 Familiare, seating was designed to comfortably accommodate five passengers. The station wagon's extended body allowed for increased rear legroom and headroom compared to the shorter sedan, improving overall cabin comfort especially for rear-seat passengers. Although compact by modern standards, the interior dimensions balanced passenger comfort with the practicality of a small station wagon, emphasizing functional use of space.
Yes, the Fiat 128 Familiare can comfortably fit into a standard garage. Given its length of approximately 3.94 meters (155.1 inches) and width of 1.61 meters (63.4 inches), it occupies relatively little space compared to many modern vehicles. Standard residential garages typically range from about 6 meters (20 feet) long and 3 meters (10 feet) wide, so the Familiare leaves ample room for opening doors and maneuvering within the garage.
Compared to the original Fiat 128 sedan and hatchback models, the Familiare station wagon variant is slightly longer due to its extended rear cargo area, while maintaining a similar width and height. The sedan and hatchback measured roughly 3,820 mm (150.4 inches) in length, making the Familiare about 12 centimeters (4.7 inches) longer. This dimensional increase translated to greater luggage capacity without significantly affecting maneuverability.
When compared to contemporaries like the Opel Kadett Caravan and Ford Escort Estate from the 1970s, the Fiat 128 Familiare is slightly more compact. For instance, the Opel Kadett Caravan measured around 4,140 mm (163 inches) in length, and the Ford Escort Estate about 4,260 mm (167.7 inches), both longer than the 128 Familiare's 3,940 mm (155.1 inches). Width-wise, the Familiare is narrower at 1,610 mm (63.4 inches) compared to the typical 1,620-1,650 mm (63.8-64.9 inches) of its competitors, making the Fiat a particularly nimble and city-friendly station wagon.
The Fiat 128 Familiare was equipped with a 1.1 to 1.3-liter inline-four engine, depending on the model year and market, producing roughly 55 to 70 horsepower. These engines were tuned for reliability and fuel economy rather than outright performance. The station wagon maintained fuel consumption figures typically around 7-8 liters per 100 km (approximately 29-33 mpg US), which was respectable for the era and segment, making it an economical choice for families.
Yes, the Fiat 128 Familiare inherited several pioneering design features from the original Fiat 128, which was one of the first production cars with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout and a transversely mounted engine. This layout maximized interior space efficiency and improved driving dynamics. The Familiare extended these benefits into the station wagon segment, offering both practicality and innovative car design, influencing many subsequent compact family cars in Europe.
The Fiat 128 Familiare benefits from a relatively small turning circle, estimated around 9.8 meters (32.15 feet), due to its compact size and front-wheel-drive layout. This tight turning radius enhanced maneuverability in tight urban environments and parking situations, a notable advantage for a station wagon of its period. Combined with its modest dimensions, the Familiare provided drivers with easy handling and confidence in city traffic.
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