Fiat 124 Abarth Stradale Is Proof That Drop-Tops Can Be Potent Rally Cars

Also known as the “Spider,” the Fiat 124 Convertible was marketed for the North American market in 1966, featuring a measly 89-horsepower 1.6-liter mill. That’s nothing to write home about, but by 1972, the 124 Abarth Rally, or the “124 Abarth Stradale,” was released for the 124 Abarth Rally GR.4 race car to meet FIA homologation rules for special grand touring cars (group 4). As per its name, this vehicle was brought about thanks to Fiat’s acquisition of Abarth in 1971.

The homologation special received a more potent 1.8-liter twin-cam mill, which was upgraded to make 126 hp. This was done by replacing its twin-choke carburetor with a double-vertical Weber 44 IDF carburetor. The engine was then paired to a synchronized five-speed manual gearbox, which was optional on other Sport Spider models.

Other improvements made to the car were a solid hard top, lightweight body panels, an upper strut, an anti-roll bar, and a radius rod for the rear independent lower wishbone suspension system. Note that the normal 124 rode on a solid rear axle.