Description

The Autobianchi A112 Abarth Rallye was a special motorsport-oriented variant of the A112 Abarth, developed with a focus on rally competition and amateur racing. It retained the same compact, lightweight chassis as the standard Abarth but was upgraded in several key areas to enhance its performance and durability under racing conditions.

Mechanically, the Rallye variant typically featured the 1050 cc or 1129 cc four-cylinder OHV engine, tuned for higher output—often pushing beyond 70 horsepower depending on the exact configuration and tuning. It was mated to a close-ratio 5-speed manual gearbox, which allowed the driver to keep the engine in its power band during spirited driving or on rally stages.

The suspension was stiffened and slightly lowered to improve handling and responsiveness, while brakes were uprated to cope with more aggressive driving. Additional reinforcements to the body and chassis helped increase rigidity. Many Rallye versions also included specific lightweight components to further improve the car’s power-to-weight ratio.

Visually, the A112 Abarth Rallye often featured unique graphics or striping, auxiliary lighting, rally-style wheels, and sometimes wider fenders to accommodate a broader track and wider tires. Inside, bucket seats, additional gauges, and sometimes a roll bar were fitted to comply with racing regulations or to appeal to enthusiasts preparing the car for competition.

Compact, agile, and fun to drive, the Autobianchi A112 Abarth Rallye carved a niche for itself in European rallying and remains a favorite among collectors who appreciate its feisty character and motorsport heritage.