The Fiat Regata 85 1.5, produced between 1985 and 1987, represented an entry-level offering within the 138 series, a compact sedan designed to replace the aging Fiat 132. Positioned as a practical and affordable family car, the Regata aimed to provide comfortable transportation with reasonable fuel economy. This particular variant, powered by a 1.5-liter engine producing 79 horsepower and paired with an automatic transmission, was primarily targeted at buyers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. The Regata, built on the Type Two platform, was a significant model for Fiat, offering a modern design and improved features compared to its predecessors, and was sold in several European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Regata |
| Generation | Regata (138) |
| Type (Engine) | 85 1.5 (79 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1985 |
| End of production | 1987 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 79 Hp |
| Engine Model/Code | 149 A5.000 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 513 l (18.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4260 mm (167.72 in.) |
| Width | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Height | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Front overhang | 820 mm (32.28 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 992 mm (39.06 in.) |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Regata 85 1.5 was the 149 A5.000 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a Weber carburetor, a common setup for European cars of this era, prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness over the more advanced fuel injection systems. The engine produced 79 horsepower at approximately 5600 rpm and 98 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm. The automatic transmission was a three-speed unit, offering smooth but not particularly quick shifts. This transmission was chosen to appeal to drivers who preferred the convenience of an automatic over the engagement of a manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The Regata 85 1.5 Automatic offered a comfortable, if uninspiring, driving experience. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 13-14 seconds. The three-speed automatic transmission, while providing ease of use, resulted in noticeable gear changes and a lack of the responsiveness found in manual transmission versions or higher-powered Regata models. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than performance. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter versions, the 1.5-liter engine felt noticeably less energetic, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, for everyday commuting and city driving, the 85 1.5 provided adequate power and a relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regata 85 1.5 typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout with analog gauges, and manual windows and door locks. The interior was designed for practicality and durability rather than luxury. Optional extras included a radio, upgraded upholstery, and occasionally, air conditioning, though these were not commonly fitted to the base 85 1.5 model. The trim level was generally considered the entry point to the Regata range, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. The exterior featured steel wheels with hubcaps, and relatively simple body trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Regata 85 1.5 utilized a relatively conventional chassis design. It featured independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a torsion beam rear suspension. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride over uneven road surfaces. Stabilizer bars were typically fitted to the front, helping to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking performance was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and power output, but lacked the stopping power of more modern braking systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Regata 85 1.5 Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family car. Critics praised its comfortable ride and reasonable fuel economy, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to other cars in its class, such as the Ford Escort or Opel Kadett, the Regata offered a competitive price point and a comfortable interior. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its sluggishness. The 1.6-liter versions of the Regata offered significantly improved performance, while the diesel models provided superior fuel economy. The 85 1.5 Automatic appealed to buyers who prioritized ease of use and affordability over driving excitement.
Legacy
The Fiat Regata, while not a particularly iconic model, played an important role in Fiat’s lineup during the mid-1980s. The 1.5-liter engine and three-speed automatic transmission combination, while not known for exceptional reliability, proved to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. Today, the Regata 85 1.5 is a relatively rare sight on the roads, and well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly sought after by classic car enthusiasts. The car represents a snapshot of 1980s European automotive design and engineering, offering a simple and practical driving experience. Parts availability can be challenging, but the relatively straightforward mechanical design makes it a potentially rewarding project for those willing to invest the time and effort.
