This aging model lives on. The Padmini is derived from the 1962 Fiat 1100 and its 1089cc engine, which evolved way before 1953, continues to be used till this day. The Padmini’s performance is quite adequate for our roads and fuel economy is not bad either. The suspension is still old fashioned, with leaf springs at the rear, while the car’s road manners are a far cry from modern standards. This car was the preferred choice before the Maruti came along. The only redeeming feature of the Padmini is that it can be serviced and repaired just about anywhere in the Indian sub-continent. Fit-and-finish and refinement is not the hallmark of this car. This car is for people who need a boot but don’t have much loot.

Filed under: Fiat Cars in India