Restored 1986 Fiat Panda 4×4 Is A Cute But Rugged Italian Off-Roader

The first generation of the Fiat Panda sold between 1980 and 2003 is the definition of form-follows-function, something that applies to its rugged variant, the Panda 4×4. A well-preserved and recently restored example from 1986 is currently being auctioned in Italy, making a great case for those who seek a tiny off-roader with unmistakable Italian style.

The original Fiat Panda was one of the first projects undertaken by Italdesign. Penned by Italian master Giorgetto Giugiaro and Aldo Mantovani, it is characterized by simplicity, robustness, and practicality, features that helped it stand the test of time selling a total of 4.5 million units during its 23-year production run.

Read: Garage Italia Customs Electrifies Classic Fiat Panda 4×4, Gives It New Looks Too

The restored 1986 Panda 4×4 auctioned by CataWiki has been repainted in its original red color and all of the unpainted plastic panels have been replaced, which is why it looks as good as new. The previous owner has tastefully customized it with grippy tires for the tiny 13-inch steelies, rock sliders, a bull bar, and a roof rack making it even more adventure-ready. Inside, the seats and the dashboard are new, with a land meter showing the pitching and rolling angles during more challenging off-road situations.

Under the bonnet lies a tiny 1.0-liter four-cylinder FIRE petrol engine producing 48 hp (36 kW / 49 PS), together with a full-size spare wheel. The power output may sound pitiful by today’s standards, but was good enough for the featherweight Panda. Power is transmitted to all four wheels thanks to the 4WD system with an ultra-low first gear and a live axle at the back supplied by Steyr-Puch. As a 1986 model, this example also has the mechanical updates introduced by Fiat in that year.

According to the listing, all mechanical parts and the electrical system are in perfect working order despite the odometer reading of 255,962 km (159,047 miles). The restoration included new suspension, oil seals, filters, gaskets, and caps.

The vehicle is located in Quarrata, Italy, and it is estimated it will fetch between €9,500 ($9,818) and €12,000 ($12,401) in the no-reserve auction that ends on November 24. At the time of writing the highest bid was €5,500 ($5,684), which is quite a bargain for such a pretty little thing.