Fiat opposes extra Ducatos
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HAT is to extend its Ducatu light van range for the British market with two new 3.5 tonne GVW models, available with either petrol or diesel engines, offering 1.8 tonne payloads.
High roof panel van and chassis/cab versions of the latest Ducato 1.8 — both on a 3.65m wheelbase — will be marketed in the UK from October. They will form part of a revised European range of Ducato vans, crewcabs and minibuses offered by Fiat.
The output of the 57kW (76hp) two-litre petrol engine currently fitted in the Ducato is being raised to 63kW (85hp) and it will be offered in the 1.8 model alongside the 55kW (75hp) naturally-aspirated indirect-injection Sofim diesel engine.
But the 2.45-litre turbocharged direct-injection diesel — already fitted in the Fiat Daily — will not become available in the Ducato until mid 1987.
Stronger coil springs and reinforced four-leaf rear springs have been fitted on both 1.8 models, along with larger hydraulic dampers. On the rear axle they are mounted to a cross-member between the thicker chassis longitudinals.
The 1.8 Ducato's chassis cab frame remains flat making body mounting easier, as well as lowering the load level by some 60mm.
The sturdier suspension, larger 306nun wheel rims and 195/75R16 tyres allows Fiat to retain single rear wheels on the 3.5 tonne Ducato 1.8.
Braking has also been improved by fitting a more powerful servo and 290trim discs, while tougher drive shafts and larger taper-roller wheel bearings have been added.
Other revisions include the strengthening of the front frame and body panels as well as the addition of extra sound proofing on diesel models.