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Fiat Mirafiori 1600 CL (1974-84)

Production Total: 1,513,800
Surviving in the UK 2024
CL= Licensed=3 SORN=6
CL Auto Licensed=1 SORN=4
Sport Licensed=17 SORN=24
Super Licensed=4 SORN=4
Super Auto Licensed=0 SORN=4

Fiat Mirafiori  1600 CL (1974-84)

The **Fiat 131 Mirafiori** (1974–1984) had several common issues:

1. **Rust**: Like many cars of its era, the Mirafiori was prone to rust. Regular inspections and rust prevention measures were essential.

2. **Tachometer Problems**: Some owners experienced tachometer issues, especially when upgrading to electronic ignition. A fix involved adding a **0.68uF 400V capacitor** in series between the negative side of the coil and the electronic tachometer wire.

3. **Fuel System**: Keep an eye on the fuel supply system, including the fuel pump, filters, and carburetor.

4. **Cold Starting Difficulty**: Starting the Mirafiori in cold weather could be challenging. Ensuring proper choke operation was crucial.

Generations
The **Fiat 131 Mirafiori** was produced in **one generation**. It inherited the legendary Fiat 124 and was initially available as a saloon with two or four doors. The estate version, known as the "Familiare," followed in 1975. The name "Mirafiori" comes from the Turin district where the cars were manufactured.
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Body Styles/Variants
The **Fiat 131 Mirafiori** was available in **three body styles**: the **2-door saloon**, **4-door saloon**, and the **Familiare station wagon** (known as the **Estate** in the British market).
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Trim Levels

The Fiat 131, affectionately known as the Mirafiori (which incidentally was the name of its factory), had a few trim levels during its production run from 1974 to 1984.

1. **131 Mirafiori (Normale or Standard)**:
- This was the entry-level version, and it kept things simple and practical. Picture single square headlamps, wheels borrowed from its predecessor—the Fiat 124—and interior furnishings that didn't scream extravagance. It was like the sensible cousin at the family gathering—reliable, unpretentious, and ready for everyday adventures.

2. **131 Super Mirafiori**:
- Now, this is where things got a bit more interesting. In March 1978, the Super Mirafiori strutted onto the scene. What made it super, you ask? Well, it finally ditched the mundane pushrod engines and embraced the twin cam life!
- The Super Mirafiori came with two engine options:
- A zesty 1297cc twin cam engine.
- A slightly beefier 1585cc twin cam engine.
- Both versions sported a 5-speed manual gearbox, improved seats, and a touch of wider wheels. Suddenly, the Mirafiori was winking at performance enthusiasts, saying, "Hey, let's have some fun!"

3. **131 Racing**:
- Okay, this one deserves a special mention. The 131 Racing had a new front end with twin halogen headlights (installed as a single unit), an integral spoiler on the bumper, and plastic trim that extended around all the wheel arches. It was like the Mirafiori decided to put on its racing shoes and hit the track.

So, whether you preferred the understated simplicity of the Normale, the spirited upgrade of the Super, or the sporty flair of the Racing, the Fiat Mirafiori had a trim level for every taste. Bravo, Fiat!
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Engines

The **Fiat 131 Mirafiori**, introduced at the 1974 Turin Motor Show, was a family car that graced the roads from 1974 to 1984. It came in various flavors, and under that elegant bodywork, you'd find a range of engines humming away:

1. **1.3-Liter OHV Engine**:
- The entry-level Mirafiori strutted its stuff with a 1.3-liter overhead valve (OHV) inline-four engine. It wasn't the flashiest, but it got the job done—a bit like that reliable friend who always shows up for brunch.

2. **1.6-Liter OHV Engine**:
- The 1.6-liter version was the crowd-pleaser. It had a bit more pep in its step, perfect for zipping around town or taking a leisurely drive through the countryside. Picture yourself winding along sun-dappled roads, the engine humming contentedly. Bliss!

3. **Supermirafiori**:
- In 1978, the range got a facelift, and the Supermirafiori stepped into the spotlight. What made it super? Well, it finally ditched the mundane pushrod engines and embraced the twin cam life! Double overhead camshaft (DOHC) engines became the stars of the show, using a toothed timing belt.
- Suddenly, the Mirafiori was winking at performance enthusiasts, saying, "Hey, let's have some fun!"
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Spares

If you're looking for **Fiat 131 Mirafiori** spares in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **[Fiat Parts](https://www.fiat.co.uk/owners/fiat-spare-parts)**: Find genuine Fiat spare parts to keep your car in top condition. Browse their selection of new and used car parts, including brakes, tires, and more.

2. **[Euro Car Parts](https://www.eurocarparts.com/c/fiat/131-mirafiori)**: Euro Car Parts offers car parts online and in-store. Check their website for Fiat 131 Mirafiori model suggestions.

3. **[AUTODOC](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/fiat-131-carparts)**: AUTODOC is the UK's No. 1 spare parts store for Fiat 131. They offer fast and free shipping for new 131 parts.
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Specialists

Let's explore the world of **Fiat** in Northern Ireland.

Here are a few Fiat-related gems you might want to check out:

1. **Donnelly Group Fiat (Mallusk)**:
- Location: Mallusk Way, Newtownabbey, BT36 4AA
- Phone: 028 9590 7856
- What's there? Your authorized local Fiat Professional retailer. They've got excellent offers on new and used Fiat Professional vans. So, if you're in the mood for some van shopping, this is the place to be! ²

2. **Donnelly Group Fiat (Dungannon)**:
- Location: 181 Ballygawley Road, Dungannon, BT70 1RX
- Phone: 028 8744 8521
- What's there? As Northern Ireland’s largest family-owned motor retailer, the Donnelly Group offers a wide selection of new cars, used cars, and commercial vehicles. Plus, they provide top-notch servicing and parts options. ⁴

3. **SERE Motors (Belfast)**:
- Location: 7-13 Boucher Road, Belfast, BT12 6HR
- Phone: 028 9020 5100
- What's there? SERE Motors is Northern Ireland’s leading new and used KGM and SEAT dealership. While they're not exclusively Fiat, they're worth a visit if you're exploring different brands. ⁵
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Racing

Ah, the **Fiat Mirafiori**—a name that conjures up images of Italian flair and winding rally stages!

**1. **Fiat 131 Mirafiori**:**
- The Fiat 131, affectionately known as the Mirafiori (named after the Turin district where it was manufactured), graced the roads from 1974 to 1984. It was available as both a two-door and four-door saloon, as well as a practical 5-door estate.
- Initially, the 131 came with a choice of engines: a 1.3-liter (1,297 cc) or a 1.6-liter (1,585 cc) overhead valve inline-four. These engines were part of the same family that powered the outgoing Fiat 124.
- But wait, there's more! In 1978, things got interesting. Fiat decided to spice things up and introduced the **Fiat 131 Racing** (or, in the UK, the **131 Mirafiori Sport**).
- What made the Racing version special?
- **115 PS Twin-Cam Engine**: Under the hood, a lively twin-cam engine churned out 115 horsepower. Suddenly, the Mirafiori was winking at performance enthusiasts, saying, "Let's hit the track!"
- **Sporty Upgrades**: Different headlights, a distinctive grille, a few choice spoilers, and extended wheel arches—all the ingredients for a road-going rally star.
- **Short-Throw 5-Speed Gearbox**: Because shifting gears should feel like a dance, right? The Racing version had a snappy 5-speed manual transmission.
- So, yes, the Mirafiori got its racing shoes on, and in 1977, it even clinched its first world rally crown!

**2. **Pure Purity**:**
- The Fiat 131 series stayed true to its purity. While other cars might have lost their way, the 131 held its ground.
- Imagine winding through hairpin bends, the engine's roar echoing off the trees, and the scent of adventure in the air. That's the spirit of the 131 Racing—a road car with rally dreams.

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