Fiat’s Abarth performance marque has paid a very special tribute to one of its legendary race cars from the 1960s, by producing a modern recreation. Unfortunately those wanting to get in on the nostalgia won’t actually be able to buy the new Abarth 1000 SP as the outfit is only making one of them.
The new sports car takes very clear design inspiration from the 1000 SP of the 1960s. The latter was created as a lightweight race car designed to excel in both short hillclimbs and endurance races. The vehicle went on to achieve numerous international victories, including a class win in the Nürburgring 500 km in September 1966. The extremely low-slung competition car featured a tubular chassis and a 1-litre engine (hence the name), which was derived from the Fiat 600’s powerplant.
And what better car to form the basis of the 1000 SP’s modern successor than the Alfa Romeo 4C? That’s what the new Abarth 1000 SP appears to be based on. This also means that it’s not really a ‘1000’ anymore as power comes from the company’s modern 1742cc turbopetrol engine, which produces 177 kW.
Like the Alfa 4C, the modern Abarth 1000 SP features a carbon fibre central tub as well as a frontal structure made from aluminium. Although it’s not as low to the ground, its proportions are at least respectful of its forebear, as are design features such as curvy arches that accentuate the wheels beneath them.
But what kind of fate awaits the single unit that Abarth has produced? The company hasn’t declared any intention to sell it, instead stating that it will be showcased at major events, particularly those specialising in vintage cars.
“Rightly considered a milestone in Abarth’s competitive history, in terms of style, performance and victories, the 1000 SP continues to inspire the designers at the Centro Stile Fiat & Abarth,” the company said.
“They have now produced a contemporary reinterpretation of the iconic 1960s Sport Prototipo: a medium-sized sports car, with an eye-catching silhouette and essential lines.”
