Vehicle model
Abarth 131 Rallye
The Abarth 131 Rallye represents one of the most glorious chapters in world rallying history. Born from the collaboration between Fiat and Abarth, this competition car was developed specifically to dominate international rallies during the second half of the 1970s. Based on the Fiat 131 Mirafiori, a family sedan launched in 1974, the Abarth version was transformed into a formidable racing machine that would make history in the World Rally Championship. Development of the Abarth 131 Rallye began in 1976, under the technical direction of Ing. Aurelio Lampredi and the Abarth team, then led by Enzo Osella. The car was designed to replace the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth, which had enjoyed notable success but was beginning to age against the competition. The base Fiat 131, with its classic rear-wheel drive and simple architecture, offered an excellent platform for creating a competitive rally car. Abarth engineers deeply modified the original sedan, reinforcing the structure, widening the track, and installing a turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with exceptional power. The engine was the beating heart of this rally beast. The 2.0-liter twin overhead camshaft engine, equipped with a KKK turbocharger, developed approximately 230 to 240 horsepower in its homologated customer configuration, while factory versions reached over 280 horsepower in competition. This engine was coupled to a reinforced five-speed manual gearbox, transmitting power to the rear wheels. The chassis featured MacPherson strut front suspension and a rigid rear axle with coil springs, perfectly calibrated for the varied surfaces of rally stages. The Abarth 131 Rallye enjoyed its glory years between 1977 and 1981, during which it won three consecutive World Manufacturers' Championships (1977, 1978, and 1980). Legendary drivers like Walter Röhrl, Markku Alén, and Michele Mouton wrote the finest chapters of its record. Walter Röhrl, in particular, won the World Drivers' Championship in 1980 behind the wheel of this Abarth, demonstrating its versatility on all terrain types. The car distinguished itself on tarmac and gravel alike, in Portugal, Greece, Kenya, and on the Monte Carlo Rally. Visually, the Abarth 131 Rallye wore an iconic Alitalia tricolor livery (green, white, red) that remains etched in collective memory. The massive fender flares, necessary to accommodate the wide competition tires, gave it an impressive road presence. The prominent rear spoiler and additional long-range headlights completed its aggressive and functional appearance. Abarth produced approximately 400 road-going examples to meet Group 4 homologation requirements, allowing enthusiasts to acquire a tamed version of this legend. The legacy of the Abarth 131 Rallye remains considerable, symbolizing the golden age of rear-wheel-drive rally cars, before the advent of four-wheel drive that would transform the discipline. Today, these cars are sought after by collectors and regularly compete in historic rallies, testifying to their robustness and timeless charisma.
History
History of the Abarth 131 Rallye
The Abarth 131 Rallye represents one of the most glorious chapters in world rallying history. Born from the collaboration between Fiat and Abarth, this competition car was developed specifically to dominate international rallies during the second half of the 1970s. Based on the Fiat 131 Mirafiori, a family sedan launched in 1974, the Abarth version was transformed into a formidable racing machine that would make history in the World Rally Championship. Development of the Abarth 131 Rallye began in 1976, under the technical direction of Ing. Aurelio Lampredi and the Abarth team, then led by Enzo Osella. The car was designed to replace the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth, which had enjoyed notable success but was beginning to age against the competition. The base Fiat 131, with its classic rear-wheel drive and simple architecture, offered an excellent platform for creating a competitive rally car. Abarth engineers deeply modified the original sedan, reinforcing the structure, widening the track, and installing a turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with exceptional power. The engine was the beating heart of this rally beast. The 2.0-liter twin overhead camshaft engine, equipped with a KKK turbocharger, developed approximately 230 to 240 horsepower in its homologated customer configuration, while factory versions reached over 280 horsepower in competition. This engine was coupled to a reinforced five-speed manual gearbox, transmitting power to the rear wheels. The chassis featured MacPherson strut front suspension and a rigid rear axle with coil springs, perfectly calibrated for the varied surfaces of rally stages. The Abarth 131 Rallye enjoyed its glory years between 1977 and 1981, during which it won three consecutive World Manufacturers' Championships (1977, 1978, and 1980). Legendary drivers like Walter Röhrl, Markku Alén, and Michele Mouton wrote the finest chapters of its record. Walter Röhrl, in particular, won the World Drivers' Championship in 1980 behind the wheel of this Abarth, demonstrating its versatility on all terrain types. The car distinguished itself on tarmac and gravel alike, in Portugal, Greece, Kenya, and on the Monte Carlo Rally. Visually, the Abarth 131 Rallye wore an iconic Alitalia tricolor livery (green, white, red) that remains etched in collective memory. The massive fender flares, necessary to accommodate the wide competition tires, gave it an impressive road presence. The prominent rear spoiler and additional long-range headlights completed its aggressive and functional appearance. Abarth produced approximately 400 road-going examples to meet Group 4 homologation requirements, allowing enthusiasts to acquire a tamed version of this legend. The legacy of the Abarth 131 Rallye remains considerable, symbolizing the golden age of rear-wheel-drive rally cars, before the advent of four-wheel drive that would transform the discipline. Today, these cars are sought after by collectors and regularly compete in historic rallies, testifying to their robustness and timeless charisma.
Technology
Technologies, engines and platforms
The Abarth 131 Rallye relied on cutting-edge technology for its era. Its 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder twin overhead camshaft engine, equipped with a KKK turbocharger, developed between 230 and 280 horsepower depending on configuration. Kugelfischer mechanical injection ensured precise fuel delivery. The reinforced ZF five-speed manual transmission sent power to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential. The reinforced monocoque chassis featured MacPherson strut front suspension and a rigid rear axle, with adjustable shock absorbers. Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, power-assisted, guaranteed powerful braking. Rack-and-pinion steering offered precision and feedback. The structure featured an integrated roll cage and specific reinforcements for competition.
Tires and wheels
Tire and wheel compatibility
Tire and wheel dimensions vary depending on the year and version (road or competition) of your Abarth 131 Rallye. Consult the owner's manual or the label on the door pillar for the exact recommended specifications.
Other models