Fiat Ducato
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Fiat's Ducato one-tonne van is a lighter version of the Talbot Express with which we started our road test programme. Fiat's car division markets this van in the UK. The Ducato shares the same overall dimensions as the other 1.3 and 1.6 tonne models from SEVEL but differs in its less powerful engine, fourspeed transmission and smaller tyres.
Its 1,796cc engine comes from Peugeot and develops 51kW (69bhp) at 4,800 rpm and has a torque output of 136Nm (1,000 lbft) at 2,300rpm. Coupled to a four-speed overdrive gearbox, the van gave an overall fuel consumption in the laden condition of 12.5 lit/100km (22.6mpg).
The driving compartment is quiet but driver comfort is spoilt by vinyl seats and a ventilation system without a fresh air vent.
Despite being front-wheeldrive, the Ducato has light steering at low speeds, and a good lock. The low flat load area is difficult to fault but we did think that the hinges on the test vehicle's optional side doors were too flimsy but, look out Ford, there is a Ducato abroad.