Hot Or Not: Fiat Punto That's All Show, No Go

Today we were sent a link to this 2000 Fiat Punto that's had a hell of a lot of work done to it. At first we mocked its bulging bumpers and that ridiculous steering wheel, but reading the many hours and the care that's gone into it, you'd probably be hard-pushed to find a Punto of this age in better condition.

The car has been completely stripped to a bare shell, cleared of all rot and coated in rust-proof paint. Once the engine and gearbox were removed from the car, they were ditched and replaced with identical newer versions (so that's only 60bhp under the hood) which the owner stripped and cleaned with a wire brush.

Many engine parts were then sent to a professional 'polisher' who got them looking - and running - better than new. The wheels received the same polished treatment, coming back with a deeper dish at the rear, held together with 24ct gold bolts.

The car sits on a hydraulic suspension system which makes speed bumps slightly less stressful. Inside, the car is unique. The Sparco bucket seats come from a Mk2 Abarth Punto, and that odd chainlink steering wheel was shipped over from America.

Irrespective of your opinions on the styling, that paintjob is stunning. It's Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione Red, which would have been a £15,000 option on Alfa's supercar when new.

If you're thinking this Punto's hot, why not put your money where your mouth is? It's up for sale at £5500.