Description
The Fiat Ritmo replaced the 128 from 1978. The compact car, available with 2 or 4 doors, was designed by Nuccio Bertone. The spearhead of the model series were the exclusively 2-door Abarth versions. The vehicles optimised by the sports car manufacturer were the last to be manufactured on a separate Abarth production line before production was transferred entirely to Fiat. The sports models not only stood out visually from the basic versions with sports seats or badges. There was a firmer chassis and a 5-speed ZF gearbox, while the real centrepiece was under the bonnet: The legendary Twin Cam engine here with a displacement of 2. 0 L and 125 hp. Developed by Aurelio Lampredi, who was responsible for Ferrari racing engines in the 50s and 60s, he continued to write his racing history with the four-cylinder. The same engine was used for the Fiat Abarth 124, 131 and Lancia 037 and Delta Integrale and S4. Lampredi was also the sports director of the Abarth company at the time. The Ritmo Abarth, with its unladen weight of approx. 900kg and 125 or 130 hp, was predestined for the race and rally track, for which numerous cars were successfully used.
This car is one of the few from the first Swiss delivery. Only the 125 models were allowed in this country, as the later 130 TC did not fulfil the new emissions regulations of October 1986. This meant that only a handful made it into the domestic market. According to Astra, there are said to be fewer than 10 vehicles on Swiss roads today. The car is in a very authentic and preserved original condition. It has recently undergone a service, during which the timing belt and tensioner pulley bearing were replaced. In addition, the vehicle was fitted with new tyres and new brake callipers at the front. Original documents such as the service booklet and emissions pass are available. The 125 hp pushes the compact sports car forward with surprising vigour. The extremely low kerb weight also gives the car unbeatable handling. The Ritmo Abarth is one of the first "hot hatches" and one of the fastest of its time. An extremely rare vehicle with incredible driving pleasure that epitomises the spirit of the 80s. The Abarth is freshly inspected - including veteran registration.
Trade-in possible
