Fiat X1/9 History
Catalog record
This is a brief catalog introduction with limited source documentation. A licensed, identity-checked lead photograph has not yet been added for this page. Detailed year, configuration and ownership coverage must be identified separately; this page is not a complete vehicle catalog.
Start with a make and model. Add a year where a detailed guide is available.
Model history available. Detailed year guides are not published for this model.
Browse this model's history and yearsHistory
Styled by Marcello Gandini at Bertone and introduced in 1972, the Fiat X1/9 was a two-seater mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive targa — an affordable sports car with balanced handling courtesy of its transverse mid-mounted engine. Uniquely for its time and price point, it also featured a removable hardtop panel that stowed under the front bonnet, front and rear luggage compartments, and retractable headlights.
The X1/9 was the first Fiat designed from the ground up to meet US federal safety and emissions regulations, and the American market was a primary target: nearly 60% of production went to the United States. In 1979 a larger 1.5-litre engine and five-speed gearbox replaced the original 1.3-litre unit.
In 1982, shortly after the 1500 was introduced, Bertone assumed complete manufacturing and the car was rebadged simply 'Bertone X1/9.' Production ran under the Bertone name until 1989, with the final 'Gran Finale' special edition closing out the run.
Body styles
- Targa
Notable special editions & performance variants
Gran Finale
Final special-edition X1/9 produced by Bertone, with rear spoiler and 'Gran Finale' badging.
Related models
Collect the nameplate
Find a scale model of the Fiat X1/9
Search Amazon across available years, colors, and scales. Exact releases vary, so confirm the listing before ordering.