Fiat has become synonymous with automotive excellence because of its distinctive style and reliable performance cars. Some of its models are so remarkable that they have cemented Fiat’s reputation as a global automotive powerhouse. From the nostalgic charm of a vintage Fiat to the cutting-edge technology of today’s models, let’s explore the heritage and innovation that make these cars truly remarkable.
This article will highlight some of the most extraordinary Fiat cars ever made.
2009 Fiat 500 Abarth Esseesse
Establishing Fiat’s undeniable dominance in the realm of certifiable hot hatches, the 500 Abarth Esseesse made its debut in 2008. It received praise from many automotive journalists. What made it so special? Its high-revving 1.4-liter turbo engine, churning out 158 horsepower, paired with the classic Italian hot hatch chassis (a wheel positioned at each corner and a remarkably lightweight build). Without a doubt, this car is destined to be celebrated as a cult classic in automotive history.
The Beast Of Turin
Rarely has a car’s name been as fitting as it is for the Beast Of Turin. Officially known as the Fiat S67 Record, this car lives up to its nickname with a massive chain-driven 28.5-liter engine packing 300 horsepower. The Beast can reach terrifying speeds. Originally built to break the land speed record from a Blitzen-Beast, it recently underwent restoration. It was also brought back to life, taking the wheel again at the 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Fiat-Abarth 850TC Berlina
If you know one thing about small Italian cars, it’s that Abarth made some of the best ones, and their early models in the ’50s and ’60s were absolutely stunning. The 850TC was the ultimate early version of the fast Fiat formula, designed specifically for racing – and winning! Despite having a comically small 847cc engine with only 52 horsepower, the 850TC proved to be a successful race car. It secured several European Touring Car Championships and even won the 1963 Nurburgring 500km race. The coolest part about the 850TC? The engine had to be mounted half hanging out of the rear!
Fiat 131 Abarth
The political tensions within Fiat-Lancia peaked in the mid-’70s, leading Lancia to partially retire the successful Stratos rally car prematurely. However, Fiat benefited from this situation and introduced the more conventional-looking 131 Abarth. Unlike the striking Stratos, Fiat’s marketing team wanted a rally car with some resemblance to their road models. Despite its less flashy appearance, the 131 Abarth proved to be a potent rally car, capable of competing with the Ford Escorts that dominated the ’70s. In fact, the 131 Abarth turned out to be a more well-rounded rally car than Ford’s offering.