The Fiat 500 R3T has been updated with a rally-ready version. The Abarth 500R3T is powered by a turbocharged 180-hp engine and will compete in a rally series next year.
Fiat-owned racing company Abarth has launched a race-ready version the Abarth 500. The Abarth 500 R3T, based on the Fiat 500, will serve as the principal car at a promotional rally scheduled for 2010.
The class for touring car racing that uses turbocharged engines less than 1.6-liters is Group R3T. This means that you should not expect the car to be road legal. Engineers have set the minimum unladen weight of these vehicles at 1080 kilograms.
The Abarth 500’s version uses a “Garret G 1446 fixed geometrie turbocharger”, bolted to a 1.44-liter engine. Combining the two will produce a maximum power output of 180 horsepower. A six-speed sequential gearbox is mated to the engine with a twin-plate clutch and self-locking differential. You can adjust the suspension to suit “each driver’s driving style.”
Also, 17-inch multi-spoke OZ wheels were added. Brembo disc brakes were also installed with ventilated discs at the front. A six-point safety belt and a welded rolling-bar keep the driver and navigator safe.
In the coming weeks, a schedule for Abarth 500 R3T rally events will be available.