Vehicle model
Abarth 850 TC
The Abarth 850 TC represents one of the most iconic creations of Carlo Abarth, founder of the Turin-based house specializing in the preparation of compact sports cars. Launched in 1961 and produced until approximately 1965, this small sports sedan derived from the Fiat 600 perfectly embodies the Abarth philosophy: transforming popular vehicles into formidable racing machines and accessible road-going sports cars. The TC designation stands for Turismo Competizione, emphasizing the dual purpose of this model intended for both road and competition use. Carlo Abarth, a former racing driver and engineer of Austrian origin, had established his reputation by extracting astonishing performance from small Italian displacement engines, and the 850 TC masterfully illustrates this expertise. Based on the Fiat 600 platform, the Abarth 850 TC adopted a modified and reinforced chassis to withstand the stresses of sports driving. The exterior design retained the compact proportions of the original sedan while sporting characteristic fender flares, a bulged rear hood to accommodate the tuned engine, and often a distinctive sporting livery. Competition models received lightened or removed bumpers and additional headlights for endurance events. The spartan interior prioritized functionality with bucket seats, a sports steering wheel, and comprehensive instrumentation including tachometer and additional gauges. Mechanically, the Abarth 850 TC received an inline four-cylinder engine derived from the Fiat block, enlarged to 847 cc through optimized bore and stroke. Thanks to a special cylinder head, twin-choke Weber carburetors, a free-flowing exhaust system, and high compression ratio, this small engine developed between 52 and 55 horsepower depending on the version, nearly double the power of the standard Fiat 600. This power propelled a car weighing barely more than 500 kilograms, providing remarkable performance for the era with a top speed approaching 145 km/h and brisk acceleration. The close-ratio four-speed manual gearbox fully exploited the rev range of the tuned engine. The Abarth 850 TC distinguished itself in numerous European competitions, particularly in its displacement category. It won its class repeatedly in prestigious events such as the 12 Hours of Sebring, the 1000 Kilometers of Nürburgring, and various hillclimb races. These competition successes greatly contributed to the Abarth brand's reputation and attracted passionate clientele. In the marketplace, the 850 TC positioned itself as an accessible sports car, more affordable than traditional Italian GTs while offering intense driving sensations and assertive character. Today, the Abarth 850 TC remains a prized icon among collectors of classic Italian sports cars. Its rarity, sporting pedigree, and timeless charm make it a sought-after model at auctions and historic gatherings. It bears witness to the golden age of small Italian sports cars and Carlo Abarth's ingenuity, whose legacy endures through the modern Abarth brand, still dedicated to compact performance.
History
History of the Abarth 850 TC
The Abarth 850 TC represents one of the most iconic creations of Carlo Abarth, founder of the Turin-based house specializing in the preparation of compact sports cars. Launched in 1961 and produced until approximately 1965, this small sports sedan derived from the Fiat 600 perfectly embodies the Abarth philosophy: transforming popular vehicles into formidable racing machines and accessible road-going sports cars. The TC designation stands for Turismo Competizione, emphasizing the dual purpose of this model intended for both road and competition use. Carlo Abarth, a former racing driver and engineer of Austrian origin, had established his reputation by extracting astonishing performance from small Italian displacement engines, and the 850 TC masterfully illustrates this expertise. Based on the Fiat 600 platform, the Abarth 850 TC adopted a modified and reinforced chassis to withstand the stresses of sports driving. The exterior design retained the compact proportions of the original sedan while sporting characteristic fender flares, a bulged rear hood to accommodate the tuned engine, and often a distinctive sporting livery. Competition models received lightened or removed bumpers and additional headlights for endurance events. The spartan interior prioritized functionality with bucket seats, a sports steering wheel, and comprehensive instrumentation including tachometer and additional gauges. Mechanically, the Abarth 850 TC received an inline four-cylinder engine derived from the Fiat block, enlarged to 847 cc through optimized bore and stroke. Thanks to a special cylinder head, twin-choke Weber carburetors, a free-flowing exhaust system, and high compression ratio, this small engine developed between 52 and 55 horsepower depending on the version, nearly double the power of the standard Fiat 600. This power propelled a car weighing barely more than 500 kilograms, providing remarkable performance for the era with a top speed approaching 145 km/h and brisk acceleration. The close-ratio four-speed manual gearbox fully exploited the rev range of the tuned engine. The Abarth 850 TC distinguished itself in numerous European competitions, particularly in its displacement category. It won its class repeatedly in prestigious events such as the 12 Hours of Sebring, the 1000 Kilometers of Nürburgring, and various hillclimb races. These competition successes greatly contributed to the Abarth brand's reputation and attracted passionate clientele. In the marketplace, the 850 TC positioned itself as an accessible sports car, more affordable than traditional Italian GTs while offering intense driving sensations and assertive character. Today, the Abarth 850 TC remains a prized icon among collectors of classic Italian sports cars. Its rarity, sporting pedigree, and timeless charm make it a sought-after model at auctions and historic gatherings. It bears witness to the golden age of small Italian sports cars and Carlo Abarth's ingenuity, whose legacy endures through the modern Abarth brand, still dedicated to compact performance.
Technology
Technologies, engines and platforms
The Abarth 850 TC is based on a platform derived from the Fiat 600, with a reinforced monocoque chassis for competition. The air-cooled 847 cc inline four-cylinder engine benefits from thorough preparation: modified double overhead camshaft cylinder head, twin-choke Weber carburetors, special exhaust manifold, and high compression ratio, delivering 52 to 55 horsepower. The four-speed manual transmission with short ratios optimizes engine rev range exploitation. Independent suspensions with swing rear axle and front coil springs ensure sporty handling. The four-wheel drum brake system, often upgraded with high-performance linings, provides braking suited to the enhanced performance.
Tires and wheels
Tire and wheel compatibility
Tire and wheel dimensions for the Abarth 850 TC vary depending on production year and configuration (road or competition). It is essential to verify the exact specifications corresponding to your version before ordering.
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