The automotive world witnessed a remarkable transformation in the 1970s when the Fiat 131 Abarth emerged as a rally powerhouse. This journey began with a simple family car, which was meticulously crafted into a symbol of Fiat’s golden era in rallying. The project was driven by a singular goal: to win the world rally Championship and boost the image and sales of a widely popular model.
The design and bodywork of the 131 Abarth were entrusted to the Centro Stile Bertone which employed lightweight materials like aluminum panels for the hood and doors, and fiberglass for the widened fenders and substantial spoilers. Meanwhile, Abarth fine-tuned the mechanics, extracting an impressive 225 to 245 CV from a 1.995 cm³ inline-four engine featuring a lightweight alloy head, dual overhead camshafts, 16 valves, and mechanical Kugelfischer fuel injection in the ‘Corsa’ version.
The Debut in Finland
The road version of the 131 Abarth, equipped with a dual-barrel Weber carburetor, delivered 140 CV. Its aggressive design, reminiscent of the rally versions, quickly made it a sought-after model. The rally version made its debut at the Mille Laghi event in Finland, where it surprised everyone with its stability and traction. Driven by the skilled Markku Alén the 131 Abarth secured its first world victory in the iconic yellow-blue Olio Fiat livery.
The Path to World Championship Glory
The 1977 season marked the beginning of an unprecedented era for Fiat. The 131 Abarth proved to be a formidable competitor against the dominant Ford Escort RS1800. The team’s strategy of fielding different pilots for each victory paid off, with wins in Portugal, New Zealand, Quebec, and a podium sweep at Sanremo. By the end of the season, Fiat had clinched its first World Championship for Manufacturers a testament to a decade-long sports program that had seen the 124 Abarth come close to victory multiple times.
The Dominance Continues
The success story continued in 1978 and 1980, with the 131 Abarth securing two more consecutive world titles. In 1978, Markku Alén and Walter Röhrl shared the spotlight with victories in Portugal, Mille Laghi, Acropolis, Canada, and Poland. Bernard Darniche dominated in Corsica, and Alén claimed the FIA Pilots’ Cup. The following year, 1980, saw Röhrl and Christian Geistdörfer secure the Pilots’ Title with wins in Monte Carlo, Portugal, Argentina, Mille Laghi, and Sanremo, adding another Manufacturers’ Title to Fiat’s collection.
The Legacy
The 131 Abarth’s legacy is cemented with 17 victories and 46 podium finishes out of 75 world rallies. Its final world victory came in Portugal in 1981, with Markku Alén behind the wheel. Half a century after its first triumph in Finland, the 131 Abarth remains a symbol of Fiat’s rally dominance, a testament to innovation and perseverance in the world of motorsport.
