A NEW sports car is set to be released as a tribute to an iconic racer – but with an incredibly limited production run.
The two-seat coupe, which has yet to be given a price tag, will have just five examples of it made – making it an exclusive opportunity for wealthy petrolheads.
Italian performance brand Abarth have revealed the retro-inspired Abarth Classiche 1300 OT to celebrate its 75th anniversary.
The car marker, which has long been associated with Fiat, will release the aggressive-looking high performance motor based on the Alfa Romeo 4C.
However, it’s also been described as a “modern reinterpretation” of the 1965 Fiat-Abarth OT 1300 race car, an icon of Italian motorsport made famous for its victories at the Nurburgring, Monza and Mugello.
Abarth says the special edition whip “retains the essence of an authentic Abarth” – finished with an array of 1960s-inspired touches including an eye-catching livery.
In a direct nod to the original, it comes with a ‘periscope’ attachment on the roof, originally designed to cool the cabin, along with a slatted, plexiglass rear window.
Mechanically, the Classiche 1300 OT will boast the 4C’s 240bhp 1.7-litre turbo-four motor – which could see it top 160mph and hit 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds.
In a message to Motor1, Stellantis Heritage confirmed the 1300 OT will be based on existing and registered 4C models.
The manufacturer said: “All the five units will be assembled based on existing and registered Alfa Romeo 4Cs, with low mileage and overhauled by Stellantis.”
The much-loved 4C was discontinued by Alfa Romeo in 2020, however it was previously used a base by Abarth in 2021 for its Abarth Classiche 1000 SP.
Earlier this year, Abarth revealed its “most powerful EV ever” that’s ready to go on sale in the UK this summer.
The firm claimed the new model has been “designed to leave Abarth fans speechless” – and it will use a 237bhp electric powertrain.
Elsewhere, Wheeler Dealers star Mike Brewer three modern classic motors including a “fast Ford” drivers can snap up now and “sell at a profit.”