1984 Fiat X19 VS Bertone

If you have been searching for one of the finest Fiat X19's available. then I believe your search is over as this stunning example is not only in amazing original. unrestored condition but it also drives and feels like a new car. In addition to this it has one of the most comprehensive and detailed history files that this writer has ever seen. Combine all of this with its low ownership history. low mileage. an average of just 681 miles per annum traveled (just 19068 miles in 28 years) and I believe you have a genuine one off opportunity here not to be missed.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHS

The twelve images here give a good over view of BJB but if you are interested I have created an additional gallery with many more detailed pictures on it. Please click on the link below and be directed to this web based gallery. please allow a few seconds for it to upload:

http://www. flickr. com/photos/82817287@N04/sets/72157632232251548/show/with/9573012687/

I make no apologies for the length of the description that follows. as I have found from selling many classic cars on ebay that the genuine and serious buyers out there appreciate an honest and in depth view. especially if perhaps they are based overseas. However. I would also strongly recommend and urge you to come and view the car if you can. to make sure you are 100% satisfied for yourself.

I have been around classic cars for over 30 years. restoring and racing them. Through my contacts I love unearthing excellent. well restored or highly original unmolested examples and then take great satisfaction passing them on to other enthusiasts. I have. I believe. built up over the years a good reputation for dealing with people in an honest and straightforward manner and I only ever deal in classic cars that I would be delighted to own for myself. Once you have read this description. I hope the testimonials at the foot of it give you further peace of mind.

HISTORY

Well as far as history goes it does not get much better than BJB's and it's pretty much all documented from new. BJB has had just three owners from new (with one having owned BJB twice!) and was purchased new by a successful businessman as a gift for his wife. a Mrs W Selwyn of Alton Hampshire. through Fiat main dealer Clover Leaf Cars on the 1st March 1984. Interestingly there is a picture of BJB outside Mr Selwyn's factory when new looking resplendent in its colour scheme of red over metallic charcoal or to give it its correct Italian name Rosso over Grigio Scuro Met.

Clover Leaf's original bill of sale shows that BJB was fitted with dealer extras of Fiat Mudflaps and a special fit of a Blaupunkt Hamburg PB radio. both of which are still fitted today as original. Talking of original features BJB also still displays its Clover Leaf original tax disc holder. number plate. windscreen sticker and supplying dealer plate on the passenger side inside sill.

For Clover Leaf Cars and BJB. this would be the start of a continuous relationship as for the next twelve years. despite only travelling around 4. 00 miles in this time BJB was religiously maintained and serviced by the main dealer. I have listed below the main service history from new to this day with accumulative mileages which demonstrates quite clearly how meticulously each owner has looked after  BJB. which ultimately is why it is presented in such fine and original condition today. I have also listed the MOT history contained within the file that again clearly demonstrates the limited usage over the years.

After 12 years BJB was purchased by a Mr Fergus Powell on the 7th December 1996. Fergus I am led to believe is well known in the Fiat X19 owners club and was a founding member back in 1984 and has a small collection of excellent X19's. After only about a year BJB was purchased by a Mr Keith Jones a Solicitor based in London at which point BJB had covered only 6000 miles. On the 10th September 2006 Fergus agreed to purchase BJB back from Keith who in 10 years of ownership had travelled only another 4. 00 miles in BJB totaling a little over 10. 00 miles. Today. a further 6 years later BJB has continued to be fastidiously maintained. regardless of cost and has just reached an incredibly low 19. 68 miles in 28 years.

Major Invoice History

01. 03. 1984      Clover Leaf new car sales invoice                             (0 miles)

14. 06. 1984      Clover Leaf first service invoice                                 (835 miles)

19. 02. 1985      Fiat Annual Anti-Corrosion Report                              (1465 miles)

12. 03. 1986      Fiat Annual Anti-Corrosion Report                              (1835 miles)

05. 11. 1986      Clover Leaf service invoice                                        (2166 miles)

26. 02. 1988      Clover Leaf service invoice & schedule notes           (2644 miles)

12. 02. 1990      Clover Leaf service invoice & schedule notes           (3518 miles)

04. 03. 1991      Clover Leaf service invoice                                        (3745 miles)

25. 02. 1992      Clover Leaf service invoice                                        (3816 miles)

02. 03. 1993      Clover leaf Brake inspection                                      (3847 miles)

28. 02. 1994      Clover Leaf service invoice & schedule notes           (3882 miles)

24. 02. 1995      Clover Leaf service invoice                                        (4029 miles)

31. 10. 1997      Montroe Fiat service invoice                                      (6522 miles)

06. 06. 2000      Xtra X19's ltd unleaded head conversion                   (8347 miles)

14. 09. 2006      Alternative Autos X19 Specialist parts invoice           (10389 miles)

18. 10. 2006      Faircrouch Garage service invoice                            (10389 miles)             

20. 04. 2007      Faircrouch Garage Oil service                                   (11108 miles)

07. 12. 2007      Faircrouch Garage Antifreeze                                    (12523 miles)

12. 06. 2008      Faircrouch Garage maintenance                               (13399 miles)

03. 09. 2008      Faircrouch Garage service                                         (13971 miles)

10. 06. 2009      Faircrouch Garage Brake service                              (14746 miles)

28. 08. 2009      Faircrouch Garage engine tune                                  (15135 miles)

27. 11. 2009      Faircrouch Garage Service                                        (15573 miles)

08. 09. 2011      Faircrouch Garage maintenance                               (17945 miles)

25. 11. 2011      Faircrouch Garage oil service & maintenance           (18274 miles)

MOT History

26. 02. 1988      88-89 MOT       2644 miles                

28. 02. 1989      89-90 MOT       3404 miles

12. 02. 1990      90-91 MOT       3518 miles

05. 03. 1992      92-93 MOT       3816 miles

10. 03. 1993      93-94 MOT       3847 miles

28. 02. 1994      94-95 MOT       3882 miles

01. 02. 1995      95-96 MOT       4032 miles

01. 02. 1996      96-97 MOT      4065 miles

04. 02. 1997      97-98 MOT       4510 miles

16. 02. 1999      99-00 MOT       7205 miles

06. 06. 2000      00-01 MOT       8347 miles

29. 08. 2001      01-02 MOT       9494 miles

07. 05. 2003      03-04 MOT       9495 miles

28. 06. 2006      06-07 MOT     10207 miles

30. 08. 2007      07-08 MOT     11996 miles

28. 08. 2008      08-09 MOT     13971 miles

28. 08. 2009      09-10 MOT     15135 miles

20. 08. 2010      10-11 MOT     16588 miles

01. 09. 2011      11-12 MOT     17896 miles

31. 08. 2012      12-13 MOT     18900 miles

Also within the history file are all the original books. with the service book fully stamped up by Fiat main dealers. a Selection of previous tax disc's. the oldest dating back to 1989. a copy of the original log book and a current red style V5C (log book).

BODYWORK & PAINTWORK

Quite often I have to state that the images of a particular car are maybe a little flattering. but in BJB's case I would say the opposite is true and that it actually looks just as good if not better ‘in the flesh'. The careful ownership history as previously mentioned along with the sensible continuous maintenance has helped to maintain BJB in almost ‘factory fresh' condition. Having listened to Fergus's detailed knowledge of this X19 from new and having myself been able to inspect it thoroughly. I can say with confidence that not one panel has been repaired or replaced. it is all original panel work. The paintwork also has been depth tested by my local paint detailer using a Positest digital depth gauge which indicates a consistent paint depth of 125 to140 microns on every panel bar the rear boot lid which has a consistent depth gauge of 215-230 microns. These readings would indicate that all the paintwork is original. with perhaps the rear boot being painted possibly on a different run in the factory. There is one small spot on the driver's front wing. near the arch which has a slightly different reading and this would tally with Fergus informing me that he had to have a small mark painted on that wing. But apart from that I would say it's all original. which is quite simply amazing!

Overall. as you can see. the paintwork is stunning and has a beautiful deep luster to it. Perhaps what is just as impressive is when opening the boot lid. bonnet and doors you are presented with gleaming paintwork on all the apertures. As far as I can see there is no penetrating corrosion within BJB. far from it. on the whole it's like new. The images looking into the light pod access and the boot wells (seen on the gallery. via the above link) I think best demonstrates how clean and original it is all over. The paintwork con not be classed as perfect however and on closer inspection you can spot the odd stone chip that has been neatly touched in here and there and both the doors had bump guards fitted at the top. that when removed took a little bit of paint off. this has been neatly hand touched in. Also when looking with a keen eye you can see the odd ‘dink' probably no more than 5 or so and you have to be looking hard. On the very bottom edge of the nearside door and the outside edge of the nearside front wing there is a little movement in the paint and there a small number of tiny blemishes here and there. None of this takes away from the overall stunning impact of BJB's appearance and actually helps. in my opinion. to show how original it all is. You could. with very little fuss have these small imperfections dealt with but it's a tough call on keeping it 100% original or making it 100% perfect.

The bodywork as previously mentioned is all original and has been helped no doubt by having Fiat's Cryla-Gard anti-corrosion system applied to the entire underneath and into closed aperture's when new. This came with a 6 year guarantee and has without question worked. The entire underneath is still neatly finished with this system.

INTERIOR & FITTINGS

Like the rest of BJB the interior is highly original and is pretty much unmarked. Finished in black with black leather seats everything just shouts originality. from seeing the Clover Leaf tax disc holder to switching on the original Blaupunkt radio it all feels correct and everything is working as it should. all the instrument's and lighting work perfectly. The switch's and levers when applied all have a nice positive and as new feel to them. The spare wheel which is located behind the driver's seat is unused and still retains its sidewall sticker. The only points to mention are the driver's door seal has perished a little in places and the reflector on the driver door has just chaffed the paintwork very slightly on the inside. Also a little storage box has been fitted between the two seats. which is useful but not original. All of which is relatively minor and easily rectified.

Externally all the light fittings. rubbers. badges and plastic fittings are generally like new. again probably best demonstrated looking at the gallery images via the link. Only the front bumper silver lacquer has a couple of ‘fly hit' blemishes and the rear bumper. just below the number plate the black plastic has curved up ever so slightly. Underneath the rear boot lid the original paint code stickers are still in place and whilst the original Fiat Mudflaps are still fitted a couple of them do have little pieces missing on the bottom edge.

MECHANICS & DRIVE TRAIN

Mechanically BJB is very strong with an incredibly smooth engine and gearbox. The years of constant. reliable servicing and tuning have helped keep BJB as close as possible to what driving a new Fiat X19 must be like. Everything is working as it should. The engine bay is clean and tidy allowing for pleasurable future maintenance for whoever is to continue looking after BJB. The brakes have recently been inspected and serviced and work very well. In fact there is nothing to my knowledge that requires any attention. All the new owner will have to do is keep up the sensible programme of preventative maintenance to enjoy what will no doubt be. many years of trouble free. fun motoring.

DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The Fiat X19 is an underrated little sportscar that combines classic Italian styling with excellent performance and handling. producing overall a great car to drive. With a pleasant mix of modern performance. refinements and classic lines. the Fiat X19 is a sports car capable for everyday use or just for some weekend fun. Whichever it is. the simple and quick fitting targa top design allows for a pleasant experience every time whether it's on a motorway or country road. Classic car/modern car open top motoring at its best? Possibly.

Once started and with a little heat in the engine BJB settles down to a nice steady tick over. The clutch action is nice and light whilst selecting every gear is precise and easy. Driving along the 1500cc engine pulls really well. with a nice progressive power band. The steering is light and responsive. The fun really starts when cornering. as the handling is so well balanced and nimble that it gives you loads of confidence too push just that little bit harder through the twisty bits that it just has to put a smile on your face. You will struggle to find a better driving example than this one.

VALUE

This is a very subjective matter and open for a lot of debate I am sure. I think it's important to stress that this is not a restored or repainted example. Please do not compare this example to the many average ones that come onto the market. this is a one off. It is highly original with an incredible documented history from new with very low mileage and ownership. This is a rare opportunity to purchase what I believe to be the most original Fiat X19 on the market today. In essence you are looking at a nearly new classic car that will surely only appreciate in value as these great sports cars become rarer and rarer. especially in this condition. Try and find another one like this. is all I would say.

VIEWING

BJB is being displayed in a modern Citroën showroom. here in Marlborough (SN8 4DH) and by prior appointment can be viewed 6 days a week. Please call Cameron to discuss the car and make arrangements to view on 07968 809305.

TESTIMONIALS

For a bit of further peace of mind please see below an email I received from another happy customer on receiving his car in Australia. which he bought ‘blind' and I helped with the shipping. followed by some genuine feedback comments from other satisfied classic car buyers via ebay.

Hi Cameron. /span>

This morning i had my first look at the 504 Coupe. and i am extremely happy. and i could not be more thrilled about your honesty and integrity in describing the car.

The 504 is basically exacltly how you described it which is a credit to yourself. As you described. one or two small blemishes in the paint but on the whole a very very clean and immaculate car.

i'm still coming to grips with how unused the interior looks its just fantastic. im thrilled to bits over the car. very very happy.   Once primed with fuel she started first piston up and ran like a swiss watch.

I wont be able to take delivery of the car for another few days because the quarantine inspection is not happening until tuesday morning.

so all in all cameron a very good result. thanks for all your assitance and help and most importantly allowing me the oppurtunity to purchase the car from england. im very very happy with the car. also i sincerely hope that you have now received the outstanding amount. please if you could confirm for me whether or not you have received it yet. it should have been there days ago now.

Many Regards

Leon. /span>

Genuine feedback comments from other ebay buyers:

“car as discribed very pleased seller very nice to deal with thanks A************”

“genuine & caring etrader: safe & secure”

“Absolutely first class item and transaction in all respects and in every detail. ”

“Honest. friendly seller. Wonderful car just as described! 5*** A+++thanks x”

“Honest and reliable description. Seller with integrity. ”

“Smooth transaction. car as described if not better. would def deal with again. ”

“Excellent to deal with Many many thanks for your help with a smooth transaction”

“Excellent gentleman 2 deal with speedy service excellent communication 10/10”

“A great buying experience from start to finish first rate”

“Professional. polite and positive. Excellent communicator. Pleasure to know. ”

“Superb service Great communication Beautiful car As described Highly recommend”

“A first class example of this classic car. A pleasure doing business”

“A thoroughly professional transaction from a seller who can be trusted. ”

“Car as described. payment & collection arranged very conveniently. Good ebayer””

“great car”

Also published at eBay.co.uk

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