UNiqUE Ones - The history of Abarth is filled with innovation and a strong connection to motorsport, showcasing a remarkable journey from producing performance parts to crafting high-performance vehicles. Abarth, founded by Carlo Abarth, initially focused on creating induction and exhaust systems, mainly for Fiat vehicles. Over time, the company evolved, venturing into the production of performance kits that significantly enhanced the capabilities of standard production cars. This passion for speed and performance eventually led to the development of a series of stylish sports prototypes and limited-series production cars, solidifying Abarth's reputation in the automotive world.
The Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider was developed as an evolution of the model after the success of the Coupé, with Abarth recognizing the potential market for a convertible version. (Picture from: Bonham)
One of Abarth's most notable achievements was the creation of a series of GT cars based on the Fiat 600 platform. The first in this line was the Abarth 750, a striking coupé that made its debut in 1956. Designed by the renowned coachbuilder Zagato, the 750 was more than just a pretty face; it was a testament to Abarth's engineering prowess. The car utilized the Fiat 600 chassis with minimal modifications, primarily focusing on adjusting the spring rates and upgrading the front brakes to a twin-leading-shoe system. These seemingly minor changes were enough to handle the significantly increased power output of the modified engine.
The design of the Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider, as seen in the 1957 prototype, was rejected by Carlo Abarth, leading to most of the Abarth 750 Spiders being produced by Allemano instead. (Picture from: Zagato-Cars)
The original Fiat 600 engine was a modest 633 cc four-cylinder unit, producing 23 bhp at 4,000 rpm. However, Abarth transformed this engine by increasing its displacement to 747 cc and extensively modifying or replacing nearly every component. The result was a remarkable boost in performance, with the engine now delivering 44 bhp at 6,000 rpm.
The first Fiat-Abarth Zagato 750 Spyder prototype was showcased at the Turin Auto Show in 1957, followed by a second example the next year. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
This impressive upgrade allowed the Abarth Zagato 750 GT to achieve outstanding performance figures for its time. In a test conducted by The Autocar magazine in 1958, the car completed the standing quarter-mile in just 20 seconds and reached a top speed of 95 mph. These numbers were exceptional for a small-engined car, making the Abarth Zagato 750 GTa formidable competitor on both the road and the track.
It is believed that only two to four Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider cars were ever constructed, making them exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors today. (Picture from: Bonham)
The success of the coupé naturally led to considerations of expanding the model range, and Abarth recognized the potential market for a convertible version. The first of the Fiat-Abarth Zagato Spider version was showcased at the Turin Auto Show in 1957, followed by a second example the next year. However, despite the interest, Zagato was heavily occupied with producing coupés, leaving little time for Spider production. As a result, only a few examples of the Spider were ever built, each one unique in its own right. It is believed that only two to four of these cars were ever constructed, making them exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors today.
The Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider is powered by a 747cc four-cylinder engine from the Fiat 600, which, after being upgraded by Abarth, now delivers 44 bhp at 6,000 rpm.(Picture from: Bonham)
One of the surviving Abarth Zagato Spiders is particularly intriguing due to its possible connection to the famous French comic actor Fernandel, whose real name was Fernand Contandin. According to unconfirmed information from the French Department of Vehicle Registration (Departement des Cartes Grises), this particular Spider's first owner was likely Fernandel, adding an extra layer of historical significance to the car.
The Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato Spider is constructed primarily of aluminum, except for part of the rear, which adds to its lightweight and sporty character. (Picture from: Bonham)
The bodywork of this rare Spider is constructed primarily of aluminum, except for part of the rear, which adds to its lightweight and sporty character. Over the years, the engine has been replaced with another Abarth unit, ensuring that the car retains its performance pedigree. Although not currently installed, the correct Abarth hubcaps are included with the car, providing a finishing touch to its authentic appearance. | kHNkINvQSQk |
This Abarth Zagato Spider transcends being merely a car; it embodies a significant chapter in automotive history, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of one of Italy's premier coachbuilders. Its distinct lineage and limited production make this charming Spider a highly coveted acquisition for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Owning such a rare vehicle, particularly one with a possible link to a celebrated figure like Fernandel, is an exceptional opportunity, cementing this Abarth Zagato Spider as a true treasure in the realm of classic automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO-CARS | BONHAM | CARROZZERIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Unique RestoMod - Restoring classic cars has always been a way to bring the past into the present while adding a modern touch, and Fifteen Eleven Design has taken this art form to a whole new level. Nearly three years after announcing their ambitious project, the renowned car builders and restoration experts have opened the doors for enthusiasts to place their orders for a modern recreation of the beloved Porsche 914. With this new creation, Fifteen Eleven Design breathes new life into an air-cooled classic, blending contemporary engineering with the timeless appeal of the original car.
Fifteen Eleven Design breathes new life into the legendary Porsche 914, blending contemporary engineering with the timeless appeal of the original classic. (Picture from: TopGear)
Based in the scenic town of Bakewell, Derbyshire, Fifteen Eleven Design is part of the prestigious Mellors Elliot Motorsport family. With a history deeply rooted in the World Rally Championship, Mellors Elliot Motorsport boasts an impressive 12 FIA World Rally Championship titles. This expertise and passion for performance have translated into several exciting projects, such as recommissioning the iconic Alan Jones’ Williams FW07/04 F1 car, crafting a Restomod version of the Ford Escort MK1 Speedster, and rebuilding a Maserati 3500 GT Inezione that earned a runner-up position at the Salon Privé. Now, the team’s skills are showcased in their Porsche 914 Restomod, which was first introduced to the world in 2021 to widespread praise.
This Porsche 914 Restomod is a complete reimagining that seamlessly fuses the car's original spirit with cutting-edge modern features. (Picture from: TopGear)
This Porsche 914 Restomod is far from a simple restoration. It’s a thorough reimagining that carefully blends the car’s original spirit with advanced modern features. Using a Porsche 987 Cayman S as its base, this mid-engined, Targa-topped roadster comes alive with a 3.8-liter, six-cylinder boxer engine, delivering the classic Porsche roar that enthusiasts love. Extensively reworked, this engine is now capable of producing between 380 and 400 horsepower—more than three times the power of the original model. Steel internals, forged pistons, and a state-of-the-art Life Racing ECU ensure that this car is as powerful as it is reliable.
Built on a Porsche 987 Cayman S, this mid-engined, Targa-topped roadster features a 3.8-liter six-cylinder boxer engine, delivering the iconic Porsche roar. (Picture from: TopGear)
Paired with a 6-speed transmission, the driving experience is smooth and responsive, offering exceptional performance across the rev range. Handling is enhanced by Reiger three-way adjustable coil-over shock absorbers, which are typically found on World Rally Cars, giving drivers a taste of rally-level performance on the road. The suspension, based on the Cayman’s architecture, adds stability and control, ensuring an unforgettable driving experience.
Braking is just as impressive, thanks to Porsche Brembo four-piston calipers and cross-drilled, vented discs. This setup, combined with a floor-mounted AP Racing pedal box, ensures that stopping power is both strong and precise. To further enhance safety and performance, the car features a custom-made fuel cell with an FIA-compliant bladder, a detail that nods to the firm’s motorsport heritage.
Inside, the Porsche 914 Restomod impresses with its luxurious leather-draped cabin, Recaro seats for comfort and style, re-engineered bulkhead for extra legroom, and meticulously crafted cockpit that balances functionality with beauty. (Picture from: TopGear)
The bespoke nature of this vehicle extends beyond its performance features. From a fly-by-wire throttle system to a stainless-steel exhaust, every element of the car is carefully crafted. Rolling on 18-inch Fuchs wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires, this Porsche 914 not only looks stunning but handles with precision.
While the car’s exterior retains the Porsche 914’s iconic look, it has undergone significant upgrades. The chassis has been reworked, with suspension pick-up points redesigned to accommodate the Cayman-based architecture. The body has been strengthened, with T45 tubular chassis structural reinforcement enhancing rigidity. The vehicle’s carbon fiber body panels have been widened, giving it a bolder appearance. A redesigned bonnet and bumper improve cooling, and a rear ducktail spoiler adds an aggressive edge. LED projector headlights light the way, while distinctive “Moby Dick” style driving lights offer a unique flair.
The bespoke design of this vehicle includes a redesigned bonnet and bumper for improved cooling, a rear ducktail spoiler for an aggressive touch, and distinctive LED projector headlights with "Moby Dick" style driving lights for added flair. (Picture from: TopGear)
Inside, the Porsche 914 Restomod is just as impressive. The cabin is draped in luxurious leather, and the Recaro seats provide both comfort and style. With a re-engineered bulkhead, the interior offers extra legroom, making it a more practical and comfortable space for drivers. Every detail of the cockpit has been designed with care, ensuring that this recreation of a classic car is as functional as it is beautiful.
Each of these custom-built cars is created to meet the specific desires of the customer. From color choices to trim options, buyers can personalize their vehicle to suit their taste. Available in both left- and right-hand drive, this Porsche 914 Restomod is sure to capture the hearts of classic car lovers everywhere.
The bespoke nature of this vehicle goes beyond performance, with every element, from the fly-by-wire throttle to the stainless-steel exhaust, meticulously crafted. (Picture from: TopGear)
The road to creating the Fifteen Eleven Design Porsche 914 has been long and challenging, but the result speaks for itself. Ben Mellors, Managing Director of Fifteen Eleven Design, expressed his pride in the project, stating that the vision has finally come to life. While the process took longer than expected, Mellors emphasized that their dedication to achieving perfection in every aspect of the build was worth the wait. The final product is not only stunning to look at but also thrilling to drive, combining the best of modern technology with the timeless elements of classic car design.
The Fifteen Eleven Design Porsche 914 Restomod is now ready for the world to experience. Years of hard work and passion have culminated in a vehicle that showcases the best of both the old and the new. As order books open, car enthusiasts are invited to be part of this extraordinary journey, owning a piece of history that’s been reimagined for the modern age. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FIFTEEN ELEVEN DESIGN | TOPGEAR | ALPHABET ]
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Weird ONES - The fleeting nature of concept cars often leaves them forgotten once their moment in the spotlight fades. These vehicles, especially those with unique or eccentric designs, are frequently destroyed. This harsh reality means that even beautiful cars can be scrapped, let alone the odd ones. Today, we dive into the story of an unusual and unique concept vehicle from Volkswagen, known as the Scooter Concept. Unlike many other concept cars, the Scooter had a different fate, as it was later developed further and realized as the production version called the Volkswagen XL1 in 2013.
The Volkswagen Scooter Concept was created by the German manufacturer as part of its efforts to develop energy-efficient vehicles. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
In the mid-80s, considered a "golden era" for the automobile industry, Group B, Group C, and turbocharged Formula 1 cars promised a bright future for gasoline enthusiasts. However, leading automobile companies began to realize that this golden era would not last forever. Volkswagen was one such company, increasingly paying attention to experimental cars with minimal energy consumption.
Design sketch of the Volkswagen Scooter Concept, envisioned as an energy-efficient three-wheeled vehicle. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
A small group of Volkswagen engineers envisioned a future problem and sought to address it. Their idea was to create a car with minimal aerodynamic drag, modest curb weight, high maneuverability, and decent dynamics. Additionally, the car needed to be equipped with a maximum of a 4-cylinder engine with a working volume of up to 1.4 liters and be stylish enough to attract a young audience.
The Volkswagen Scooter Concept featured minimal aerodynamic drag, modest curb weight, high maneuverability, and decent dynamics. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
This project was created in secret from the top management, which was quite unusual for a German company. By 1986, the car was ready, and it was bold for Volkswagen. With three wheels, a streamlined front end, and gull-wing doors, the Scooter stood out among the Golfs and Passats of that time, resembling a spaceship more than a conventional car.
The Volkswagen Scooter Concept derived its name from a scooter, reflecting its small size and agility. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The Scooter concept derived its name from a scooter, reflecting its small size and agility. Despite its compact design, the cabin could accommodate two adult riders and had space for a small suitcase behind the seats, making it a practical city vehicle. The unique three-wheeled concept was presented at the 1986 Geneva Motor Show, showcasing Volkswagen's ambition to create a fuel-efficient city vehicle with sporty performance and innovative styling.
The Volkswagen Scooter Concept, with its three wheels, streamlined front end, and gull-wing doors, resembled a spaceship more than a conventional car, standing out among the Golfs and Passats of that time. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The Scooter concept was a two-seater coupé with gull-wing doors and was powered by a front-mounted four-cylinder engine. This engine, with a displacement of 1 liter, produced 40 bhp at 5300 rpm and 74 Nm of torque at 2700 rpm. The power was delivered to the front wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. Weighing just 635 kg, the Scooter promised excellent fuel efficiency and agile performance.
The Volkswagen Scooter Concept's cabin could accommodate two adult riders and had space for a small suitcase behind the seats, making it a practical city vehicle. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The Scooter's front suspension architecture was borrowed from the Polo of that time, ensuring a balance between performance and comfort. The press release indicated that the car was equipped with two engines, the most economical being a 1-liter engine producing 41 horsepower, while the more powerful 1.4-liter engine developed 90 horsepower, enabling the Scooter to accelerate to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 220 km/h.
The Volkswagen Scooter Concept was powered by two engine options: a 1-liter engine producing 41 horsepower and a 1.4-liter engine delivering 90 horsepower. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
However, road tests revealed that while the Scooter was indeed very economical, with the 90-horsepower engine consuming only 4.7 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers, it was never pushed to its maximum speed. The car's drag coefficient of 0.25, similar to the Audi A2, contributed to its efficiency.
The
Volkswagen XL1 (VW 1-Litre) is a two-seat limited-production vehicle,
with only 250 units produced starting in mid-2013, representing the
evolution of the Volkswagen Scooter Concept. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Despite public interest, Volkswagen was hesitant to release such a radical and unconventional car. Nonetheless, the concept of a compact, super-economical car was considered for future projects, albeit without the sporty factor. The first successor to the Scooter, created by Ferdinand Piech, appeared in 2002 as the Volkswagen 1 Liter Car, which was then produced as the limited edition Volkswagen XL1 in 2013, with only 250 units made. | UmRTX_Hr7Ls |
The Volkswagen Scooter concept remains a fascinating chapter in the history of automotive innovation. It showcased bold ideas and forward-thinking design, serving as an example of the endless possibilities that concept cars represent. Though it never made it to production, its legacy lives on as a testament to creativity and experimentation in the automotive industry. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORAUTHORITY | STORY-CARS | CARSTYLING.RU | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Rare ONES - Some time ago, we discussed theTommy Kaira ZZ-II, a sports car from a Japanese automotive tuning and manufacturing company. Today, let's delve into another fascinating sports car from Japan, made by a company with a remarkably similar name. The car in question is the TOM'S Angel T01, created by TOM'S (Tachi Oiwa Motor Sport) Racing, a Toyota-supported race team and parts manufacturer.
The TOM'S Angel T01 created by TOM'S (Tachi Oiwa Motor Sport) Racing, a Toyota-supported race team and parts manufacturer to celebrate their 20th anniversary in 1994. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscars)
TOM'S has been a prominent name in motorsport since its establishment in 1974. Over the past five decades, they have achieved numerous victories, leaving a significant mark on the motorsport world. Their contributions include building Formula 3 engines and chassis.
The TOM'S Angel T01 was designed from scratch by Martin Oglivie and built at the company's UK factory. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscars)
To celebrate their 20th anniversary, TOM'S took a unique approach. While most companies might release anniversary-badged items, TOM'S decided to fulfill a long-held dream by creating their own mid-engine race car for the road. The plan was to produce one Angel T01 concept and then consider either low-volume production or selling the design and rights to another manufacturer. Unfortunately, neither plan materialized, resulting in only the prototype T01 being produced.
The TOM'S Angel T01 shares several design elements with Lotus cars, such as lightness, compactness, a low center of gravity, and chassis rigidity. (Picture from: Forum.Forza.net)
The Angel T01 made its debut at the 1994 Tokyo Auto Salon. It was built at TOM'S factory in the UK with a design by Martin Ogilvie, who had previously worked on the Lotus F1 T100. The Angel T01 shares several design elements with Lotus cars, such as lightness, compactness, a low center of gravity, and chassis rigidity. Despite its compact dimensions, the car was designed from scratch rather than using a kei car chassis.
The Angel T01 features a bathtub carbon composite monocoque and unique gull wing doors. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscars)
To manage production costs, the Angel T01 utilized several OE Toyota parts, the most noticeable being the AE92 Corolla hatchback taillights. However, what truly sets the car apart are the custom-designed elements by TOM'S.
The TOM'S Angel T01 uses double wishbone suspension with adjustable Spax dampers all around, along with four-wheel disc brakes that include bias adjustment. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscars)
The Angel T01 features a bathtub carbon composite monocoque and unique gull wing doors. It uses double wishbone suspension with adjustable Spax dampers all around, along with four-wheel disc brakes that include bias adjustment.
The TOM'S Angel T01 boasts a race-inspired interior that includes a removable steering wheel. (Picture from: SpeedHunters)
Powering the Angel T01 is a 1.6L 20-valve 4A-GE engine from an AE101 Corolla, producing 160 hp in its stock form. This engine is mounted in a rear-mid position and drives the rear wheels through the AE101's original 5-speed manual gearbox. A horizontally mounted Ford radiator sits under the front overhang.
The TOM'S Angel T01 features an air-conditioned cabin with fixed polycarbonate windows on the doors, which cannot be lowered. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscars)
With a weight of just 700kg (1,543lb), the Angel T01 is impressively quick. TOM'S initially claimed a 0-100km/h time of 5.5 seconds, though subsequent engine updates have likely made it even faster.
The TOM'S Angel T01 utilized several OE Toyota parts, the most noticeable being the AE92 Corolla hatchback taillights to o manage production costs. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscars)
Interestingly, air conditioning was a standard feature in the Angel T01, a necessity given that the doors' windows are fixed polycarbonate pieces that cannot be rolled down. The windscreen was sourced from a Lancia Stratos.
The TOM'S Angel T01 powered by a 1.6L 20-valve 4A-GE engine from an AE101 Corolla, producing 160 hp in its stock form. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscars)
The Angel T01 stands out as one of the more famous concept cars, partly due to its appearance in video games. However, it's just one example of many remarkable one-off creations. Other notable fantasy-to-full-scale concepts include Aston Martin’s Bulldog, the Saab Aero-X, Ferrari’s 512 Modulo, Yamaha’s OX99-11, and Alfa Romeo’s TZ3 Corsa, which was built to celebrate Alfa's 100th anniversary.
Most concept cars or celebratory vehicles are based on existing platforms, making TOM'S achievement of designing and building an entirely new car from scratch even more impressive. The Angel T01 remains a testament to TOM'S innovation and dedication to automotive excellence, showcasing their ability to create a unique and remarkable vehicle. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR1 | SPEEDHUNTERS | FORUM.FORZA.NET | CLASSIC AND RECREATON SPORTSCARS | K.SINA.CN ]
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Unique ONES - Diving into the world of rare and obscure automobiles often reveals fascinating stories, and the Fortvac Bernardi is a perfect example. Originating from Quebec-based auto company Fortvac Automobile Canada Inc., this car showcases a blend of design and performance that many car enthusiasts have yet to discover. The Fortvac Bernardi, rooted in the Cimbria kit cars, distinguishes itself with its central placement of American engine, offering a spectrum of options from V6 engines to the powerful 455cid V8 drivetrain.
The Fortvac Bernardi was designed with a sleek, aerodynamic body featuring gull-wing doors, a signature of exotic and high-performance cars. (Picture from: OldCarJunkie)
The Fortvac Bernardi was designed with a sleek, aerodynamic body featuring gull-wing doors, a signature of exotic and high-performance cars. The car's dimensions include a 98-inch wheelbase and a width of 78 inches, ensuring a stable and balanced stance. With a ground clearance of just 5.5 inches, the Bernardi maintains a low profile that enhances its sporty appearance and improves aerodynamic efficiency.
The Fortvac Bernardi maintains a low profile that enhances its sporty appearance and improves aerodynamic efficiency. (Picture from: ClassicVehicleList)
Under the hood, the Fortvac Bernardi offered several engine options, showcasing its versatility and performance potential. Buyers had the choice of a 2.8L V6 engine, a robust 350 V8, or the powerful 455 Oldsmobile engine. These engines were centrally located, providing optimal weight distribution and handling. Transmission options included a four-speed manual for those who relish a more hands-on driving experience, or a THM425 automatic transmission, commonly found in models like the Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado until 1978.
The Fortvac Bernardi's chassis was designed to deliver an engaging driving experience, featuring four-wheel independent suspension for improved handling and ride comfort.. (Picture from: Drive2)
The Bernardi's chassis was designed to deliver an engaging driving experience, featuring four-wheel independent suspension for improved handling and ride comfort. The inclusion of four-wheel disc brakes ensured reliable stopping power, while power steering made maneuvering the car easier. These features combined to offer a driving experience that was both thrilling and responsive.
The Fortvac Bernardi's interior is distinctly 1980s, especially with its vintage digital dashboard. (Picture from: ClassicVehicleList)
One of the most striking aspects of the Fortvac Bernardi is its rear wing, a bold design element that not only enhances the car's appearance but also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. This wing, along with the car's low stance and sleek lines, makes the Bernardi a visually captivating vehicle.
The seats and belts are not original to the Fortvac Bernardi, but they fit well. (Picture from: MotoIQ)
Inside the cabin, the Bernardi provides a compact yet functional environment. The dashboard is simple and straightforward, reflecting the car's focus on performance rather than luxury. The roof height of just 41 inches contributes to the car's low profile, making the interior cozy and intimate. While the cabin may not be as spacious as modern vehicles, it offers a driver-focused layout that emphasizes control and engagement.
The Fortvac Bernardi buyers could choose from a centrally located 2.8L V6, a robust 350 V8, or a powerful 455 Oldsmobile engine, all providing optimal weight distribution and handling. (Picture from: Drive2)
The forward-tilting hood of the Bernardi reveals a unique layout, with the fuel tank and filler location positioned under the hood, along with the master cylinder and windshield washer tank. This configuration highlights the car's innovative design, prioritizing weight distribution and accessibility.
One of the most striking aspects of the Fortvac Bernardi is its rear wing, a bold design element that not only enhances the car's appearance but also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. (Picture from: OldCarJunkie)
The Fortvac Bernardi stands as a remarkable achievement in automotive design and engineering. Its combination of a unique body, powerful engine options, and advanced chassis components make it a noteworthy example of a rare and innovative sports car. The Bernardi's legacy is a testament to the creativity and determination of its creators, and it remains a fascinating chapter in the history of automotive design.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive world, the Fortvac Bernardi continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its rarity and distinct features make it a prized possession for those fortunate enough to encounter one. As a symbol of Canadian innovation and engineering prowess, the Fortvac Bernardi will always hold a special place in the annals of automotive history. This car is not just a vehicle; it's a piece of art, a testament to the daring spirit of its creators, and a reminder of the endless possibilities in automotive design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BARNFINDS | OLDCARJUNKIE | CLASSICVEHICLELIST | MOTOIQ | DRIVE2.RU | CAR & DESIGN ON FACEBOOK ]
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One of Abarth's most notable achievements was the creation of a series of GT cars based on the Fiat 600 platform. The first in this line was the Abarth 750, a striking coupé that made its debut in 1956. Designed by the renowned coachbuilder Zagato, the 750 was more than just a pretty face; it was a testament to Abarth's engineering prowess. The car utilized the Fiat 600 chassis with minimal modifications, primarily focusing on adjusting the spring rates and upgrading the front brakes to a twin-leading-shoe system. These seemingly minor changes were enough to handle the significantly increased power output of the modified engine.
The original Fiat 600 engine was a modest 633 cc four-cylinder unit, producing 23 bhp at 4,000 rpm. However, Abarth transformed this engine by increasing its displacement to 747 cc and extensively modifying or replacing nearly every component. The result was a remarkable boost in performance, with the engine now delivering 44 bhp at 6,000 rpm.
This Abarth Zagato Spider transcends being merely a car; it embodies a significant chapter in automotive history, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of one of Italy's premier coachbuilders. Its distinct lineage and limited production make this charming Spider a highly coveted acquisition for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Owning such a rare vehicle, particularly one with a possible link to a celebrated figure like Fernandel, is an exceptional opportunity, cementing this Abarth Zagato Spider as a true treasure in the realm of classic automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO-CARS | BONHAM | CARROZZERIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU ]
