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Published on 14 September 2020

Of all the world's major car makers, it seems that there were more variations on Fiat products built usually under licence than any other company. The Russian Lada was made by the millions and more rugged than its Italian 124 parent. The Poles had a long history of making Fiats since well before World War II with the 1970s 125p being a mix of 125 body with an OHV engine and a unique wagon option. Similarly, the 126p sold here as a Niki had differences. The Fiat Neckar 1100 was made under licence in Germany, while Steyr-Puch in Austria adopted the 500 and built hot versions which did well in European rallies. Over in Spain, SEAT made Fiats such as the 4 door 850 along with plenty of 600, 124, 131, and even a 133 variant. Zastava in the old Yugoslavia used the 600 made up to 750 cc and also made a unique five door hatch out of the 128. The Finns even Turboed the Lada. Further afield, the Argentinians made an Aussie like ute out of the old 1960s 1500, while the evergreen 1100 as the Premier Padmini was doing great service as a taxi in India. There are probably many more, such as the Australian 1964 Fiat Riviera and I think the New Zealanders had a uniquely badged 125.