The Fiat Punto III (199) 1.4 8V (78 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 below the more powerful 1.4 MultiAir and diesel options. It was primarily aimed at buyers seeking an affordable, fuel-efficient city car. The 199 designation refers to the project code for this generation of the Punto, which was based on a revised version of the previous generation’s platform. The introduction of the Start&Stop system aimed to further improve fuel economy and reduce emissions, aligning with increasingly stringent European regulations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fiat |
| Model | Punto |
| Generation | Punto III (199) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 8V (78 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) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 78 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 3250 rpm (84.82 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 350A1000 |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 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 | 1025 kg (2259.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1585 kg (3494.33 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| 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 1.4 8V Start&Stop utilized the Fiat 350A1000 engine, a naturally aspirated, four-cylinder inline engine with a displacement of 1368 cc (83.48 cubic inches). This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating two valves per cylinder. The fuel system employed multi-point sequential fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to the intake ports. The Start&Stop system, a key feature of this variant, automatically shut off the engine when the vehicle came to a standstill (e.g., at traffic lights) and restarted it upon releasing the brake pedal. This system contributed to improved fuel efficiency in urban driving conditions. The engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this trim level. The engine code, 350A1000, is crucial for identifying specific parts and service information.
Driving Characteristics
The 78 hp output and 115 Nm (84.82 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.4 8V engine resulted in modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 12.5 seconds, and the top speed was around 102.53 mph. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 MultiAir versions, this variant felt noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering reasonable gear spacing. However, the engine required frequent downshifts to maintain momentum when climbing hills or carrying a full load. The focus was clearly on fuel economy rather than outright performance, making it well-suited for city driving and shorter commutes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 8V Start&Stop typically came equipped with basic but essential features. Standard equipment generally included power steering, ABS brakes, a driver’s airbag, and central locking. Interior appointments were relatively simple, with cloth upholstery and a functional dashboard layout. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were features like electric windows and a radio/CD player. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but this variant generally represented the entry point to the Punto III range. Higher trim levels offered more luxurious interior materials, additional safety features, and upgraded infotainment systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Punto III utilized a McPherson strut independent suspension 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 ideal for maneuvering in tight urban spaces. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle (1025 kg / 2259.74 lbs) helped to offset the modest engine output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fiat Punto III 1.4 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 performance compared to more powerful alternatives. Compared to the 1.4 MultiAir version, the 8V model offered significantly less power but also a lower purchase price and potentially lower maintenance costs. The diesel variants provided even better fuel economy but came with a higher initial cost and potentially more expensive repairs. The Punto competed with other subcompact hatchbacks such as the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Renault Clio.
Legacy
The 1.4 8V Start&Stop powertrain proved to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. Common issues include sensor failures and occasional problems with the Start&Stop system. In the used car market, this variant remains an affordable option for buyers seeking a practical and economical city car. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it an attractive choice for first-time drivers or those on a tight budget. While not a performance icon, the Punto III 1.4 8V Start&Stop played a significant role in providing affordable transportation to a wide range of customers.
