One challenge for enthusiasts seeking an Italian classic of a certain age is finding one that has remained rust-free throughout its life. This beautiful 1980 Fiat Spider 2000 ticks that box as a one-owner survivor that has never seen inclement weather. It needs nothing but a new home, offering the new owner the option to fly in and drive this gem home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Araknid78 for spotting the Fiat listed here on eBay in Portland, Oregon. Bidding sits below the reserve at a mere $202 with plenty of time remaining for those who view the Spider as a must-have to make a play for this classic.

Fiat has a long history of collaborating with various companies for vehicle design and body manufacturing. It turned to Pininfarina to pen the lines for what became known as the 124 Sport Spider, which later underwent a model designation change to the Fiat Spider 2000, with the first cars rolling off the line in 1966. This Spider emerged in 1980, and is a one-owner survivor that presents nicely in Cherry Red with a Beige soft-top. Its condition is first-rate, with no significant cosmetic shortcomings. Rust can be a major issue with these cars, but this garage-kept example has never been exposed to the conditions that might cause problems. It is rock-solid, with no past or existing corrosion that might cause headaches. The new soft-top looks excellent, as does the chrome and glass. One change I would probably make if this car were to find its way into my garage would be to swap the springs. Compliance with American headlight height regulations forced Fiat to fit longer springs than those found in European models. Fitting Euro springs would give the Fiat a lower appearance and would also improve handling. That’s a win/win in my books.

Rust issues aren’t the only problems facing Italian classic owners; interiors are also prone to significant age-related deterioration. However, that isn’t an issue with this Spider. The Beige interior trim shade mirrors the soft-top, and its condition is excellent. There is no evidence of significant wear or other problems, and no visible UV damage. Color-matched mats protect the carpet, and the timber dash fascia is spotless. This interior doesn’t feature power windows, which were part of that year’s Limited Edition package, but the chunky wheel and the AM/FM radio/8-track player should make life on the road pretty pleasant.

From Day One, the Fiat 124 Sport Spider featured one of the company’s sweet little DOHC fours under the hood, with the capacity climbing to 1,995cc in 1979. The company added fuel injection in 1980, allowing this Spider to place 102hp at the driver’s disposal. Buyers could select a three-speed automatic transmission, but this Fiat comes with a five-speed manual for an engaging driving experience. The seller states that this gem has a genuine 28,000 miles showing on its odometer. They don’t mention verifying evidence, but since it is a meticulously maintained one-owner classic, there may be Service Records to eliminate any potential doubts. Otherwise, it is a turnkey proposition with no identified mechanical problems.

This 1980 Fiat Spider 2000 is a beautiful classic that would suit enthusiasts with a passion for Italian sports cars. Its presentation is extremely impressive, and its rust-free status and known ownership history are both reassuring. It has only attracted four bids, but the listing statistics suggest that figure and the price will climb considerably as the auction runs its course. That begs the question of a potential sale price, and I believe that this beauty should easily top $15,000 before the hammer falls. Would you be interested, or is that figure too rich for your blood?