The Fiat Uno 1.1, producing 57 horsepower, was a mainstay of the Fiat lineup from 1995 through 2002. Representing the entry-level offering within the second-generation Uno (Tipo 237) range, it served as an affordable and economical transportation solution, particularly in European and South American markets. This variant was positioned as the most accessible model, appealing to first-time car buyers, city dwellers, and those prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance. The Uno 1.1 occupied a crucial space in Fiat’s strategy to provide basic, reliable motoring to a broad customer base.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | UNO |
| Generation | UNO |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1 (57 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1995 year |
| End of production | 2002 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp, 75 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.7 kg/Nm, 114.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 57 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 51.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 87 Nm @ 2750 rpm (64.17 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 160 A3.000 |
| Engine displacement | 1108 cm3 (67.61 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 70 mm (2.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 760 kg (1675.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 270 l (9.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 970 l (34.26 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3690 mm (145.28 in.) |
| Width | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2360 mm (92.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1340 mm (52.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 155/70 R13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Fiat Uno 1.1 was powered by the 160 A3.000 engine, a 1.1-liter (1108 cc) inline-four cylinder unit. This engine was a relatively simple design, utilizing a single overhead camshaft and two valves per cylinder. Crucially, this version employed a carburetor for fuel delivery, a cost-saving measure that contributed to its affordability. While less precise than fuel injection, the carburetor proved reliable and easy to maintain. The engine produced 57 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 87 Nm (64.17 lb-ft) of torque at 2750 rpm. The engine’s modest output was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, the standard configuration for this trim level. The engine was transversely mounted, a common layout for front-wheel-drive vehicles, maximizing interior space.
Driving Characteristics
The Uno 1.1’s driving experience was defined by its economy and ease of use rather than performance. Acceleration was leisurely, taking approximately 16 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). Top speed was around 93 mph (150 km/h). The five-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing for relatively relaxed cruising on highways, although overtaking required careful planning. The steering was light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The suspension, while basic, provided a reasonably comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface adequately. Compared to higher-spec Uno models with larger engines (like the 1.4 or even the turbocharged versions), the 1.1 felt significantly underpowered, but it offered a more forgiving and fuel-efficient driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Uno 1.1 was typically offered with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Power steering was often included, but air conditioning and central locking were usually optional extras. Interior trim was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The exterior featured steel wheels with hubcaps, and body-colored bumpers were often an optional upgrade. The focus was on providing essential features at the lowest possible price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Uno utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of coil springs and independent wishbones, while the rear employed a twist-beam axle with coil springs. Braking was handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. This configuration was typical for vehicles in this price range during the 1990s and early 2000s. The steering system was a rack and pinion setup, providing reasonably precise steering feel. The Uno’s relatively light weight (approximately 760 kg or 1675 lbs) helped to compensate for the modest braking performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Uno 1.1 was generally well-received as an affordable and reliable city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of performance and basic interior. Compared to other small hatchbacks of the time, such as the Renault Clio or Peugeot 206, the Uno offered a more budget-friendly option, albeit with fewer features and a less refined driving experience. The 1.1-liter engine provided significantly better fuel economy than the larger 1.4-liter engine available in other Uno trims, making it a popular choice for drivers prioritizing economy. However, the 1.4 offered a noticeable improvement in performance.
Legacy
The Fiat Uno 1.1, while not a performance icon, proved to be a remarkably durable and reliable vehicle. Many examples remain on the road today, testament to its robust engineering and simple design. The 160 A3.000 engine is known for its longevity, and parts availability remains relatively good. In the used car market, the Uno 1.1 represents an exceptionally affordable entry point into car ownership, appealing to those seeking basic, dependable transportation. Its enduring popularity in certain markets highlights its success as a practical and economical vehicle.
