My modded Fiat 500 - a car from the year I was made.

Not really sure why you'd be unhappy with the handling.

With a bit of lowering, good shocks ( like Koni's ) and wider wheels, it should corner great.

Weight distribution is actually really close to most Formula Fords, and as long as you keep your right foot planted ( never ever lift off in a corner, or expect swing axle like nastyness) it should outhandle most of what's out there ( specially in the tight stuff )

I love the early non synchro box.
Double clutch it, or mistreat it like a racing dog box for lightning quick shifts.
You want to keep momentum, because it takes a while to get back up to speed if you don't.

There is a reason these are cult cars, and very collectable ( apparently several former F1 drivers have one in their personal collections)

Congrats with the car, looks like you got a nice one...

Thanks.

It's lowered, on Konis and on wider wheels, already. It's the very short wheelbase, baggy steering and too much grip which makes it entertaining to corner with.

It's a great little car. The amount of attention it gets is mad!

Quite tempted to add an 850 Coupe to the collection, too.

That's bloody brilliant!

A little update on my old Italian car. It has needed nothing since I've had it. I recently adjusted the clutch as the bite point wasn't right, one threaded nut on a cable tightened to do that, 2 minute job. The battery seems to be kippered, 11.4v isn't quite enough to start it, and it won't hold any more charge than that. I suspect it's just an old battery that needs replacing, so that's on the shopping list. I've adjusted the door latches so you don't have to slam the doors to close them. Tyres needed some air. That's about it. I think I've driven it 5-10 times in the last 12 months as the Lotus gets more of my time. Still very, very happy with it.

New electricity applied, off for a drive down the lane...

I like the modern ones, too. This has an updated engine and only weighs about 500kg, I reckon it’s quick enough! 😁👍