Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino
Basically, it is "Italian Automobile Manufacturers, Torino" just as you might say "British Car Manufacturers, Coventry". (Although, I don't think there's a car manufacturer u could call "British" anymore, except a few minor exceptions)
The reason it is simply "Italian Automobile Manufacturers" is that back in 1899, when FIAT started, there were no other car makers in Italy and also, the state has always had a large stake in the company. Even today, we Italians still judge the state of our nation on how well FIAT do, almost like a barometer. Therefore, as u can well imagine, we don't have a lot of faith in the economy right now LOL
My family hails from the Turin/Milan area and FIAT cars have always been in the family. There is simply no other choice. 500's, 600's, 124's, 126's, 127's, 132's and then my collection of Punto's, Cinq's, Sei's, Tipo's and of course my Bravo HGT.
Strange thing is that, after a terrible experience with his 132 (the rust was unbelieveable), my father has never bought another and became a FORD man, bemoaning every FIAT purchase I ever made ! LOL
Well, I have to keep up the tradition !
Rob.
