Abarth creates ‘60’s inspired one-off

Based around the mechanicals and mid-ship chassis of the Alfa Romeo 4C, this new one-off 2021 Abarth 1000SP takes clear inspiration from the 1966 original. It follows the same basic design language but allied to improved aerodynamics and better ergonomics, whilst respecting the original model’s three fundamental design principles: lightness of form, superb aerodynamics and outstanding dynamics. 

Under its slippery minimalist coachwork, the contemporary new Abarth replaces the tubular frame of the 1966 Sport Prototype with a hybrid frame, the central cell being carbon-fibre and the front aluminium. Power comes not from a four-cylinder Fiat 600-derived 1.0-litre twin-cam engine but a 1.7-litre supercharged four-cylinder aluminium motor, capable of delivering up to 243PS (179kW), versus 105PS (77kW) for the 55-year old original.

The Abarth concept’s advanced chassis has double-wishbone suspension at the front and a Macpherson scheme at the rear. The new 1000SP brakes are dual-cast self-ventilated and drilled 305mm discs with fixed four-piston Brembo calipers up front, and ventilated and drilled 292mm discs at the rear.

If this technical layout sounds familiar, it will come as no surprise as the 1000SP concept shares it’s genetic makeup with the short-lived mid-engined Alfa Romeo 4C, a model that was originally developed to wear Abarth branding, rather than Alfa badges.

Although sadly set to remain a one-off prototype, this new 1000SP homage will still have a chance to shine, with Abarth promising to run the car at “major events focused on vintage cars” throughout this coming Autumn.