Fiat 126
The Fiat 126 was introduced in 1973 as a replacement for the stalwart Fiat 500.
Using the same mechanical underpinnings and layout as its predecessor, but with an all new bodyshell closely resembling a scaled-down Fiat 127.
Engine power gradually increased to the dizzy heights of 700cc in the 1980s, culminating in the introduction of the 126bis, which was water-cooled. Also production was moved from Italy to Poland ( Polish Fiat 126p ).
Despite clever marketing, the 126 never achieved the frenzied popularity of the 500, and in 1993 it was replaced by the front-engined Fiat Cinquecento.
