The Untold Story Of The Fiat X1/9 Abarth

Manufactured in over 150.000 units between 1972 and 1989, the Fiat X1/9 is fondly remembered for its unique style and excellent handling: especially so in the United States, the market that took by far the largest share of production. But what if I told you that the Fiat X1/9 could, at one point, have become a rally champion?
From March of 1974, Fiat-Abarth campaigned the X1/9 in the "Group 5" prototype class in the few events that allowed it, where the X1/9's potential quickly became apparent. On its third outing, the X1/9 won outright the "Rally Delle Alpi Orientali" with Fulvio Bacchelli and Bruno Scabini.
By the end of the 1974 season, the X1/9 Abarth proved itself a formidable contender: according to Fiat's development driver Giorgio Pianta, the X1/9 Abarth was easier to drive and faster than the Lancia Stratos.
Nevertheless, all that Fiat needed to do was build the 400 road cars required for homologation in "Group 4." Bertone had already made the necessary preparations, and the X1/9 Abarth could be homologated by February of '75. But it was not to be... #Fiat #Abarth #Bertone
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