The Fiat Punto III (199) 1.2 8V (69 hp) Start&Stop was a subcompact hatchback produced by the Italian manufacturer Fiat from 2012 to 2018. This variant represented an entry-level offering within the Punto III range, positioned as a fuel-efficient and affordable option for urban commuters. It was part of the 199 series, the third generation of the Punto, which benefited from a significant redesign compared to its predecessors. The 1.2 8V Start&Stop model aimed to balance practicality with reduced environmental impact, incorporating Fiat’s Start&Stop technology to minimize fuel consumption in city driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Punto |
| Generation | Punto III (199) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 8V (69 Hp) Start&Stop |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 126 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 156 km/h (96.93 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10 kg/Nm |
| Power | 69 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 102 Nm @ 3000 rpm (75.23 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 169A4000 |
| Engine displacement | 1242 cm3 (75.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 70.8 mm (2.79 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.9 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.6 l (2.75 US qt | 2.29 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1015 kg (2237.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1575 kg (3472.28 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 275 l (9.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1030 l (36.37 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4065 mm (160.04 in.) |
| Width | 1687 mm (66.42 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2510 mm (98.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1473 mm (57.99 in.) |
| Rear track | 1466 mm (57.72 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.0 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 175/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Punto III 1.2 8V Start&Stop utilized the Fiat 169A4000 engine, a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating two valves per cylinder. The 1242 cc displacement was achieved with a bore of 70.8 mm and a stroke of 78.9 mm, resulting in a compression ratio of 11:1. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-point sequential fuel injection system. The Start&Stop system automatically shut off the engine when the vehicle came to a halt, such as at traffic lights, and restarted it upon releasing the brake pedal, contributing to fuel savings. The engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its affordability and simplicity. This transmission featured standard gear ratios optimized for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 8V engine produced 69 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 102 Nm (75.23 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. This resulted in a 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 13.7 seconds and a top speed of 156 km/h (96.93 mph). The driving experience was characterized by its relaxed nature, prioritizing fuel economy over spirited acceleration. The five-speed manual transmission offered adequate control, but the engine required frequent downshifts when overtaking or climbing hills. Compared to higher-output Punto variants, such as those equipped with the 1.4-liter engine, the 1.2 8V felt noticeably slower. However, it provided a smoother and more forgiving driving experience, particularly in congested urban environments. The gear ratios were spaced to maximize fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often operated at lower RPMs during cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 8V Start&Stop typically came with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS brakes, a driver’s airbag, and central locking. Interior appointments were functional rather than luxurious, with cloth upholstery and a simple dashboard layout. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were features like electric windows and a radio/CD player. Higher trim levels within the Punto III range offered upgrades such as alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and more advanced infotainment systems, but these were not typically included as standard on the 1.2 8V model.
Chassis & Braking
The Punto III utilized a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, making it well-suited for city driving. The chassis was designed to be lightweight, contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency. Stabilizer bars were present, but were relatively thin compared to those found on higher-performance Punto variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Punto III 1.2 8V Start&Stop was generally well-received as an affordable and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other Punto variants, such as the 1.4-liter models, the 1.2 8V offered significantly lower fuel consumption but at the expense of acceleration and overall driving enjoyment. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Renault Clio, the Punto 1.2 8V offered a competitive price point and a reasonable level of equipment, but often lagged behind in terms of refinement and perceived quality.
Legacy
The 169A4000 engine, while not known for its high performance, proved to be relatively reliable. Common issues included occasional sensor failures and oil leaks, but these were generally not major concerns. In the used car market, the Punto III 1.2 8V Start&Stop remains an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs continue to be attractive features. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car’s limited performance and basic interior appointments. The Start&Stop system, while beneficial for fuel economy, can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Overall, the Punto III 1.2 8V Start&Stop represents a practical and economical choice for those seeking a simple and reliable city car.
