Teenager Sinks Fiat Punto In The Beach

An 18-year-old college student from Bolton, UK had the bright idea of taking his Christmas present, a used first generation Fiat Punto for a spin on Blackpool beach. A few minutes later Sam Hamilton’s Punto got stuck in the sand. Despite the youngster’s attempts to save the car, it was completely destroyed when the high tide came in.

The college student said: "I decided to go onto the beach because I thought it could be driven on like Southport. Then I realised the car had sunk." Sam tried calling recovery firms but a shortage of cash meant no private company would come. "I contacted one firm who said it would cost £60, but we only had £25 between us. They told me they might be able to help me but no-one came. We tried to move the car but couldn't. I phoned my mate from Bolton to help but by the time he arrived it was too late." Next time mate, stick to building sandcastles on the beach…

Via: Daily Mail

Teenager Sinks Fiat Punto In The Beach

An 18-year-old college student from Bolton, UK had the bright idea of taking his Christmas present, a used first generation Fiat Punto for a spin on Blackpool beach. A few minutes later Sam Hamilton’s Punto got stuck in the sand. Despite the youngster’s attempts to save the car, it was completely destroyed when the high tide came in.

The college student said: "I decided to go onto the beach because I thought it could be driven on like Southport. Then I realised the car had sunk." Sam tried calling recovery firms but a shortage of cash meant no private company would come. "I contacted one firm who said it would cost £60, but we only had £25 between us. They told me they might be able to help me but no-one came. We tried to move the car but couldn't. I phoned my mate from Bolton to help but by the time he arrived it was too late." Next time mate, stick to building sandcastles on the beach…

Via: Daily Mail

Fiat Launches Limited Edition Panda & Grande Punto

Fiat has released two limited edition versions of its best-selling models in the UK. The Panda Special Series 360 and the Grande Punto Special Series 360 feature higher levels of standard equipment at a reasonable price -but that’s about it. -Details after the jump

Based on the 1.2-litre Panda Dynamic, the Panda 360 is distinguished by a special series sticker on the B-pillar, metallic paint and 14-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the car is given a special interior trim which includes the new company logo on the front seats. Air conditioning, a Bluetooth phone system and spilt folding rear seating are also fitted as standard.

This extra equipment has a retail value of £1,600, but the Panda 360’s on-the-road price of just £7,195 is actually £400 less than the price of a Panda Dynamic.

Similarly, the Grande Punto 360 is based on the 1.2-litre Grande Punto Active and is available in 3- and 5-door specification. Recognizable from the outside by the special series sticker, metallic paint, 15-inch alloy wheels and body coloured mirrors, the vehicle also gets a unique interior trim with company logo, air conditioning, Fiat’s Blue&Me™ hands-free media system and a split folding rear seat.

Despite the fact that it gets £1,700 worth of added equipment, the Grande Punto 360 costs £8,495 (3-door) and £9,095 (5-door), which are £55 less than the respective Active versions.