Abarth Fiat 1000 TCR

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Description

The Abarth Fiat 1000 TCR, or “Turismo Competizione Radiale,” is one of the most revered small racing cars ever produced by Abarth. Built on the Fiat 600 platform, the 1000 TCR represented the pinnacle of Abarth’s engineering and tuning expertise, designed to compete in touring car races and hill climbs where lightweight, high-revving machines could excel. With a 1,000cc engine, it was significantly more powerful than the standard Fiat 600, thanks to Abarth’s extensive modifications. These included high-compression pistons, a larger carburetor, a modified camshaft, and an optimized exhaust system that significantly boosted its performance, pushing it well beyond what would be expected of a car of its size.

The exterior design of the 1000 TCR made it immediately recognizable. To manage the heat generated by the rear-mounted engine, Abarth added a distinctive rear hood that was often propped open for cooling. The car also sported wide wheel arches to accommodate larger racing tires, enhancing its stability and grip on the track. With its lowered suspension and aerodynamic adjustments, the 1000 TCR was able to handle sharp turns and high-speed straights with remarkable precision. Signature Abarth racing stripes and logos completed its aggressive look, underscoring its purpose-built design.

Racing success quickly followed, and the Abarth Fiat 1000 TCR became a popular choice in European touring car and hill-climb championships. Its lightweight construction and excellent power-to-weight ratio allowed it to outperform many of its larger and more powerful competitors. Today, the Abarth Fiat 1000 TCR is celebrated as a classic racing icon, appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts alike for its blend of compact size, innovative engineering, and competitive spirit. The model remains a lasting symbol of Abarth’s ability to transform small, unassuming cars into race-winning machines.

Additional information

Manufacturer

Abarth

Country

Italy

Production Started

1970

Production Stopped

1972

Vehicle Type

Bodystyle

Tudor

Number of Doors

-, 2

Number of Seats

1

Top Speed

134 mph (215 kph)

0-60 mph (0-100 kph)

8.8 s

Power

88 / 120 / 118 @ 8200 rpm

Torque

130 / 96 @ 7000 rpm

Engine Manufacturer

Fiat

Engine

Inline 4

Engine Location

Rear

Engine Displacement

1074 cc (65.2 cu in), 982 ccm (59.6 cu in)

Valvetrain

OHV

Valves per Cylinder

2

Bore / Stroke

65 x 74 mm (2.559 x 2.913 in)

Compression Ratio

12.5:1

Cooling System

Water

Charging System

Fuel Type

Petrol

Fuel System

Carburator, 2 x Weber

Aspiration

Normal

Fuel Capacity

Drive

Rear

Transmission

M5

Steering

Front Brakes

Rear Brakes

Front Suspension

Rear Suspension

Tyre Dimensions

Chassis

Weight

570 kg (1257 lb)

Length

3530 mm (139 in)

Width

1420 mm (55.9 in)

Height

1400 mm (55.1 in)

Wheelbase

2000 mm (78.7 in)