Quote Originally Posted by Lon Moer View Post
1979 was the first year that Fiat and Lancia changed to the electronic Magneti Marelli ignition - and for Lancia Beta and Zagato the rare '79 only block mounted distributor. Also the first year to use the Bosch electronic alternator.
That older Magneti Marelli system does not like outsiders.
I have a box full of Blue Streak ignition coils and Bosch Platinum spark plugs that I've removed from many Fiat "parts cars" that I bought because they wouldn't run.
Ah, I see you too are a man of culture. Funny thing about that Marelli e-ign setup, the ICM is basically a GM HEI unit, might be somewhat different inside but at least the same shape and terminals outside, and I did replace that with an Accel unit along with the coil, so who knows...
But yeah, people putting platinum or iridium plugs on really any carb'd engine is always good for a laugh.