Fiat 242 Van

Manufacturer	FIAT
Main type	Commercial vehicle
versions	Van
Production	1974 to 1987
Height	1998 mm
Mass	3270 and 3500  k g

The Fiat 242 was a large van produced between 1974 and 1987 by Fiat , in a collaboration with Citroën.

History

The "Joint venture" had started when the French company was still owned by Michelin at 51% and by the same Fiat at 49%. It was not only produced as 242, but also as a Citroën C35 . In fact, production took place in the establishment of the French house in Valenciennes .It was the only common project to survive the exit of the Italian house from the French capital the year before. Just during the start of production, Peugeot entered the capital of the French company, gradually taking over the shares of the tire manufacturer.

It was very successful, especially in his motherland, thanks to reliability. A little less well for the bodywork , particularly subject to rust . Among its other qualities were the very regular loading floor (thanks to the front wheel drive ) and with a reduced height from the ground, aspects that allowed a good use. The model was also used in particular configurations; in fact, versions were created with special school- type bodywork , a mobile and leisure stall with camper adaptation .

The engines were Citroën CX- derived diesel .The braking system called "Full Power" consisting of four discs , the front ones self-ventilated with fixed dual-piston calipers, was inspired by the Citroën and was one of the most advanced for its time. A unique feature was the use of LHM mineral oil for hydraulics, and the operating pressures on the order of 120 - 167 bar.

Between the seventies and eighties The van dominated the light vehicle market in Italy by dividing the success almost only with his "younger brother" Fiat 238 (closely related to the Fiat 241 , predecessor of 242) and the Ford Transit .Production ended in 1987, for the Italian side (while  continued to the Alps until 1994), after it was joined in 1981 by his younger brothers Fiat Ducato and Citroën C25 (produced in Italy, at the Sevel plant ).