1996-2007 Fiat Marea Weekend

Let me tell you a little secret...

Hey wait, isn't that the Brava? Well...

...this car, the Marea, is the whole reason for the recent focus on Fiat wagons, here on the REV. Yep, I've got a thing for this longroof that we never could buy here in the States. Weirdly (I know, I know), there really isn't anything particularly special about it. The corporate replacement for both the Tempra and Croma, the Marea was built on the Type Three platform, which was also the basis for the Alfa Romeo 155 and Lancia Dedra.

Characteristically, which of the many engine offerings were installed in the Marea Weekend is not currently known to me. But I do know that in the UK, they got the 1.6 and 2.4 petrol motors and three different turbo diesels, a 1.6, 1.9 and another 2.4. Both 2.4s (petrol and diesel) were 5-cylinder engines. I am unaware of the Marea Weekend getting the 2.0 Garret turbocharged petrol mill. That had 182 bhp and would have snappy in the 3000-ish pound wagon. But, no love. At least, that was the case in the UK, apparently they did get it in Brazil at least. Second best was the 2.4 20-valve gasoline banger with 160 bhp and that's as good as it got, I think, from a performance angle.

Here's one of those turbo Brazilian Mareas.

This was a stylish, medium sized wagon came this close to being something truly special, in my eyes. Owners report few problems other than what one would, should and could expect from an older car. Parts are plentiful and cheap overseas and service is simple. Driving reviews mention safe and predictable handling, a luxurious interior with the optional leather and just an overall pleasing experience. Imagine.

Thankfully, they kept the awesome split bumper that could be lowered to access the cargo area.