1967 Fiat Abarth TC Berlina Corsa

The Abarth reputation as a giant-killer was cemented on the racetracks, rallies and hillclimbs of Europe and America, as funny-looking but potent little Fiat sedans stormed to class wins and group championships in event after event.

Based on the Fiat 600D introduced in 1960, the 850 TC, for Turismo Competizione, boasted an 847-cc, Abarth-tuned engine with 52 horsepower capable of a 92-mph top speed. Disc brakes were fitted as part of the enhanced suspension package. From the TC came the 850 TC Nürburgring Corsa, with an additional 16 horsepower and the large front-mounted radiator. This, combined with the propped-open rear engine lid, gave this series of cars their very distinctive look. That raised engine cover, first done in the name of more efficient engine cooling, also had the not-inconsequential benefit of acting as a very useful rear wing, which generated considerable downforce to help plant the rear drive wheels of the car.

Next up was a further development of the block to 982-cc, which gave birth to the Fiat Abarth 1000 TC. Running against the heretofore dominant Mini Coopers in the D Sedan class, they proved a formidable adversary. In fact, they ended up being banned from SCCA competition, such was their record.