I can't blame your Dad. Sometimes you just want something a little special especially if you drive it everyday. I'm 59 so I remember "Sans Internet" and "Micro Fiche" - those days are underrated.
Not to go all "old fart" and all - but people actually looked at each other as they spoke - instead of swiping right as they talk to cashiers, waitresses and bartenders...
Fiat is definitely a different kind of automaker - as I am NOW finding out. Previously only had Mercedes - but fell in love with Fiat 500. Had a regular Pop, then Sport - finally Gucci Lounge. I've had not only cosmetic issues 1) messed up "velvet touch" dashboard which is otherwise hardshell and 2) off shade replacement parts in the interior that do not match the original. And this was thru the original Fiat Studio.
Mechanically, I've been thru the wringer as well. Two replacement gas tanks, driver door that magically would not close and stay closed, gear shifter that would not go into gear from "park" to "drive" whilst pumping gas. I had to have a flat bed truck actually load the car to deliver to the dealership. (Having not lost my sense of humor-the gas station manager comes out and says "So much for Dolce Vita!")
After all this - I still would not trade my Fiat for another car! My other half has a higher end Italian car - but people do not stop in traffic to ask if they can take that car's picture like mine.
Perfect strangers will start a conversation out of the blue about how cute it is, how do I like it, how they love the Gucci accents, etc. It is very reliable (now) - great on gas - and doesn't require a bank loan for a schedule service tune up!!
They truly are unique cars - mechanically and emotionally!
