Compromised Internals

Overview Specs Highlights Characteristics

Overview

The Fiat 131 Abarth Rally was born from the humble Fiat 131 sedan but transformed into a formidable rally car through extensive development with Abarth and Bertone. Debuting in the mid-1970s, the 131 Abarth was designed to comply with Group 4 regulations and was engineered for competitive dominance. Featuring wide fenders, a stripped-down body, and a high-revving twin-cam engine, it was a rally-bred evolution that surprised many with its pace, reliability, and ability to win on any surface.

Technical Specs & Innovations

Its combination of lightweight construction, a powerful engine, and rally-tuned suspension made the 131 Abarth incredibly competitive across a wide variety of stages.

🏆 Competitive Highlights

1977 WRC Manufacturers’ Champion: Fiat claims the top spot, with Markku Alén and Maurizio Verini leading the charge.
1978 Portugal & New Zealand Rallies: Victories help cement the car’s multi-surface dominance.
1980 WRC Drivers’ Champion: Walter Röhrl takes the crown in a 131 Abarth after consistent performances all season.

The Fiat 131 Abarth proved that a well-engineered RWD platform could still dominate in the late Group 4 era, even as 4WD competition began to emerge.

Driving Characteristics

With its torquey engine and well-balanced chassis, the 131 Abarth was a favorite among skilled drivers. It required finesse to maintain traction on loose surfaces but rewarded clean driving with excellent feedback and consistent grip. The long wheelbase provided stability at high speeds, while the tuned suspension soaked up rough terrain.

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