1971 Fiat 130 Coupe Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Fiat 130 Coupe has a maximum weight listed at approximately 1485 kilograms (about 3,274 pounds). This relatively heavy curb weight for a coupe of its time reflects its large V6 engine and luxury-oriented equipment. The weight contributes to a solid, planted feel on the road, which improves high-speed stability and ride quality. However, it also means the car requires robust engine output and well-tuned suspension to maintain agile handling. The Fiat 130 Coupe was powered by a large V6 engine that offered respectable power and torque, compensating for the weight to deliver smooth acceleration and comfortable grand touring performance. Overall, the weight balances luxury, performance, and ride comfort effectively.

The Fiat 130 Coupe is equipped with 8J x 18-inch rims, which was quite large for the period and contributed to its sporty appearance and performance-oriented setup. The tire sizes used on this model are 235/60 R18 and 255/55 R18, providing a wide contact patch for good grip and stability. The relatively tall sidewalls compared to modern standards helped absorb road imperfections, enhancing ride comfort while maintaining responsive handling. The choice of 18-inch wheels with performance tires was progressive for the early 1970s and helped the Fiat 130 Coupe deliver confident cornering and braking dynamics suited to a grand touring coupe, balancing performance with the luxury driving experience expected from the brand.

Standard garage dimensions typically range around 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) wide and about 5 to 6 meters (16.4 to 19.7 feet) deep. Considering the Fiat 130 Coupe is approximately 4.74 meters (186.6 inches or 15.56 feet) long and 1.78 meters (70.1 inches or 5.84 feet) wide, it will comfortably fit within most standard garage dimensions. The car’s width leaves ample clearance on either side in a two-car garage or most single-car spaces, and the length is well within garage depths. Overall, Fiat 130 Coupe owners should not face issues with garage storage in typical residential garages. A key consideration is to ensure the garage door opening is wide enough, but standard residential garage doors (about 2.4 to 2.7 meters wide) easily accommodate the car’s width.

The Fiat 130 Coupe was designed as a luxurious grand touring coupe, offering a comfortable interior for up to four passengers. While coupe configurations generally prioritize style over maximum passenger space, the 130 Coupe impresses with a relatively spacious and well-appointed cabin for the early 1970s. The car's wheelbase and body design provide ample legroom and headroom for front and rear passengers, despite the sloping roofline typical of coupes. The use of high-quality materials and attention to detail in the cabin ensure a polished and comfortable environment. Compared to other coupes of similar size and period, the Fiat 130 Coupe strikes a strong balance between sporty styling and interior comfort, making it a desirable choice for buyers seeking performance and luxury.

The Fiat 130 Coupe was a successor to the earlier Fiat 2300 Coupe and represented a significant step forward in terms of size, design, and technological advancement. It featured a longer and wider body, reflecting the 1970s trend toward more imposing grand touring coupes. While the 2300 Coupe was moderately sized with more conservative styling, the 130 Coupe boasted a more dramatic design with sharper lines, a lower roofline, and a more marked presence. Dimensionally, the 130 Coupe was longer and wider, which translated to improved interior space and better road presence. The upgrade also accompanied a switch from the 2300’s inline-6 to the more advanced and powerful V6 engine in the 130, offering enhanced performance.

When compared to similar grand touring coupes from the 1970s such as the Jaguar XJ-C, BMW E9, and Mercedes-Benz C107 SL, the Fiat 130 Coupe holds its own with competitive dimensions and luxury credentials. Its length of 4.74 meters (15.56 feet) and width of 1.78 meters (5.84 feet) place it squarely in the large coupe segment, though it is typically a bit wider than some competitors, contributing to stable handling. Performance-wise, the Fiat’s V6 engine delivered a smooth and capable driving experience, though it was generally less powerful than some rivals' inline-6 or V8 engines. However, the 130 Coupe emphasized refined Italian styling and comfort, which helped differentiate it, offering grand touring capabilities with a luxurious interior and good ride quality.

As a large coupe intended for grand touring, the Fiat 130 Coupe provides a reasonably sized trunk for its class. The sloping rear roofline characteristic of coupes does reduce vertical trunk space compared to sedans of similar size, but the overall cargo volume remains practical for luggage and daily use. Exact figures from contemporary specifications are limited, but the trunk is generally adequate for two medium-sized suitcases or golf bags, making it suitable for weekend trips and longer tours. The rear seats split somewhat in some configurations, enabling additional storage flexibility. Owners appreciate the balance between sporty coupe styling and usable cargo capacity, which is better than many smaller or more strictly performance-focused coupes.

Yes, the Fiat 130 Coupe, developed with design input from Pininfarina, incorporated several innovative features for its time, including a focus on balancing luxury, performance, and technology. It was one of the first Italian cars to integrate a sophisticated independent rear suspension setup that enhanced ride comfort and handling precision. The V6 engine was advanced, offering smooth power delivery with decent fuel efficiency for the era. Inside, the car featured high-quality materials and advanced instrumentation, emphasizing driver engagement and luxury. It combined the elegance of Italian styling with modern engineering, making it noteworthy among 1970s grand tourers.

Owning a classic Fiat 130 Coupe today involves specialized maintenance due to its rarity and age. Key considerations include sourcing parts, as some components may be difficult to find or require custom fabrication. The V6 engine, though robust, needs regular attention to prevent wear-related issues such as timing chain tensioner maintenance and carburetor tuning. The car's electrical system may require updates or repairs due to aging wiring. Suspension components, especially the independent rear suspension, benefit from periodic inspection to maintain ride quality. Given its weight and size, owners should also be mindful of brakes and cooling system upkeep. Enthusiast clubs and specialists can provide valuable support for maintenance, helping keep this rare grand tourer in top condition.