The Fiat Punto Cabrio designed by Bertone

Vehicle Overview

The Fiat Punto Cabrio marks the renewed co-operation of Bertone and Fiat. Considerable research was dedicated to the structure, with special emphasis to the torsional and flexural rigidity values and bringing them close to those of the closed-top version. With the production of the Punto Cabrio, Bertone worked alongside a major, highly specialised car manufacturer, within standardised mass production parameters. With the Fiat Punto Cabrio Bertone had the chance to rediscover his flair for compact convertibles. The Fiat 850 Spider had been the last of its kind in the 1960’s. The new Fiat convertible was derived from the three-door saloon, and as for the Opel Astra, Bertone worked on both the structure and the styling: base and pillars were reinforced, making it as robust as the closed version, and getting it through the strictest American roll trials. From a design point of view the cabrio version called for a restyling of the rear, and the result is a balanced cabriolet with modern lines which was a hit with the public. As for engines, from 1994 to 2000 the car saw a 1242 cc. SPI (also used for the model with Selecta automatic gearshift), a 1580 cc. MPI, and a new version of the 1242 cc., available with 8 or 16 valves. Carrozzeria Bertone manufactured 54,960 units.