The Fiat 131 Abarth is one of the most significant Italian rally cars of the 1970s. What began as an unassuming family sedan evolved into a machine that managed to establish itself among the absolute elite of world rally racing.
Abarth was responsible for its development; the company significantly lightened the Fiat 131 and modified it for motorsports. Its distinctive features included flared fenders, a sporty body, and prominent aerodynamic accessories.
Under the hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced approximately 140 horses in the road-going version. Rear-wheel drive and a light weight laid the foundation for an exceptionally successful rally car.
Its greatest successes came in the World Rally Championship. The Fiat 131 Abarth won the manufacturers’ title in 1977, 1978, and 1980. Legendary drivers such as Walter Röhrl, Markku Alén, and Jean-Claude Andruet took the wheel.
At first glance, it catches the eye:
- with a wide body and prominent fenders
- the distinctive look of a rally car
- rear-wheel drive
- with a two-liter engine
- with a history linked to world rallying
The Fiat 131 Abarth remains one of the greatest rally icons of its era and serves as a reminder of a time when even relatively small sedans could compete with the best cars in the world.
