Thoughts on the X1/9?

[ericg]

A 79' X1/9 Bertone is practically being given away in my area. I haven't seen it yet, but wondering what you all have to say about them. I think the body and interior are clean(ish) but its been sitting many years (inside). Are they fun to drive and easy to work on like the 124's?

[divace73]

they are sooo much fun to drive, they handle like a go kart, take it, only wish I had that opportunity.

[RRoller123]

I bought a brand new 1979 X1/9 and can honestly say that it was the best car I have ever owned. Drove it for 135,000 miles with almost no troubles. It went to California and back twice. GREAT CAR!!!! I keep looking for another, but I can't pull the trigger until I retire and get a garage!

[azruss]

I owned an X for a few months when they were new. I owned a 70 spider at the same time. The X was twitchy in a straight line and the rear end could come around on you without any warning. Then sense i had was the interior, switches, etc were made cheaper and were more fragile than a 124....more like 850 stuff. You are also talking about a mid-engine car which is a PITA to work on. On the plus side, it is a 10 year newer design than a spider with all the structural engineering improvements in that time. when R&T tested the first ones, they set a new slolam record beating out the Ferrari Dino. They are much better balanced in a corner than a 124 which plows like no tomorrow. Would I trade my Spider for one....never!

[spiderrey]

I have an X1/9 and a spider. Love them both.

[RRoller123]

I plan to own them both myself!

[ericg]

Thanks for the feedback! I'll know by tomorrow and let you know! May need some advice with troubleshooting if I do end up with her. You guys are the best!

[RRoller123]

A go-kart on steroids. For grownups.

[2ndwind]

Had an X-19 years ago. Fun car but really tiny by comparison to the spider. I was taller then. Keep a sharp eye out for rust in these too. There is one for sale locally for $3K but rust bubbles are coming through the pretty paint.

[kd1wo]

Had an X 1/9 a while ago. Ran quick..... not fast.
Beware of any rust signs. What killed mine was a rusted engine "cradle". Totally twisted due to engine torque.
I ended up stripping it for odds and and ends, sold off the goodies , and scrapped the rest.
'Twas a shame but at least it was a cheap lesson. Only paid $600 for it and got the money back from the parts sale.

[Fi8spider]

Best part about them is that little SOHC 128 engine.

I owned one for about a year. They are definately a different beast to drive than our 124's, I feel azruss has best summed up their handling traits, although this is taking nothing away from the fact that they can be mastered.

[ericg]

Well gentleman, she slipped away. Actually someone beat me to her. At least now I know to keep a closer look out. Thanks again!