The Fiat X1/9 is a two-seater mid-engined sports car designed by Bertone and manufactured by Fiat from 1972-1982 and subsequently by Bertone from 1982-1989. With a mid-mounted, rear-wheel drive configuration, the X1/9 was noted for its excellent handling, lightweight-removable hardtop, front and rear-storage compartments, and for being designed from its conception to meet the late 60s U.S. safety regulations.
The X1/9 succeeded a 1969 show concept car called the Autobianchi Runabout, with styling by Bertone. The first models featured a 75 bhp (56 kW) 1290 cc single overhead cam engine with an aluminium head and a 4-speed transmission. Later it received an increase in displacement to 1498cc and a 5-speed transmission. (wikipedia)
Fiat X1/9 Lido
Originally intended for the Swiss market, the Fiat X1/9 Lido (also called the Serie Speciale) was launched in 1977. It acquired the Lido name after the famous night club in Paris, which was used to launch the updated car. It was the only model in the cars 17 year production run to feature slender chrome bumper. These delicate bumpers helped to enhance the lines of the Bertone styled wedge, making it a sought after model. Other enhancements were black metallic paint, a silver side stripe, tinted glass and white imitation suede trim. 700 Lido’s were offered to the UK market making it a rare model. As a result it is a highly sought after model in the x1/9 community. (taketotheroad.co.uk)
(Photos from autobild.de, flickr.com, pistonheads.com, auto-italia.co.uk & 4starclassics.com)
