Abarth has already put his hands on the new
Fiat 124 Spider that reaches the European market in September with 172hp. The enthusiasm was so great that the Italian brand decided to launch a concept anouncing it will return to rallying in 2017.
The 124 Spider developed by Abarth Racing Team gets a more aggressive design and an updated version of the four-cylinder 1.4-liter MultiAir II engine with 172hp combined with a manual six-speed gearbox or an automatic with shift paddles selector and that includes a "Sport" driving mode. The additional 30hp of output allow the Abarth 124 Spider to reach 100km/h in 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 230km/h.
To rival with the
Mazda MX-5, Abarth made changes to the suspension and dampers of the Fiat 124 Spider, which provided better braking and stability in the curves.
The interior was trimmed in Alcantara and the basic equipment includes climate control and cruise control. An infotainment system with a 7-inch screen with DAB connection, satellite navigation, Bluetooth and a reversing camera are included in the optional list.
Abarth's return to rally in 2017
Taking advantage of the presentation of the Abarth 124 Spider, the Italian brand announced its return to rallying with a concept competition version based on the sports car. The
124 Rally was developed by Abarth Racing Team and, besides the hardroof, it was developed in accordance to FIA's R-GT regulations.
The 124 Rally gets a 1.8-liter turbo engine, reconfigured to offer a power of 300hp. The engine is associated with a sequential six-speed gearbox.
Abarth's goal is to build some units of the 124 Rally for rally private teams. The car may take part in FIA's R-GT Cup.