Skip advert
Advertisement

Abarth Classiche 1300 OT is the brand’s mid-engined 75th birthday present to itself

This limited edition Abarth 1300 OT sports car has Alfa Romeo underpinnings

Abarth’s rich history dates back to 1949 and in the 75 years since, the Italian firm has created some truly incredible cars - both to behold and to drive. To celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2024, Abarth has unveiled the Abarth Classiche 1300 OT - a lightweight sports car that is said to fuse “style, performance, and history”.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Classiche 1300 OT is based on the Alfa Romeo 4C, but if you’re thinking Abarth could’ve been more creative, remember it was Abarth that laid the ground work for the Alfa in the form of the elegant 1966 Fiat Abarth 1000SP race car - which was, incredibly, derived from the humble Fiat 850. 

Abarth finally created the limited Classiche 1000 SP in 2021, after initial concepts shown in 2009. All five cars were quickly sold out and the Classiche 1300 OT will also be limited to just five units. All available to order right now, although no exact pricing figures have been revealed just yet. 

Like the Classiche 1000 SP, the Classiche 1300 OT will utilise the same 1.75-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the Alfa 4C with an expected power output of around 240bhp. Thanks to extensive use of carbon fibre, the 1300 OT’s kerbweight should be similar to the 1000 SP’s at around 1,074kg - a portly figure compared to the 480kg 1966 Abarth 1000 SP. We expect a 0-62mph time in the region of 4.5 seconds and a 155mph top speed. 

In terms of design, the short wheelbase, roofline and air vents help give away the Alfa Romeo underpinnings, but there are new lights front and rear, new bumpers and even a redesigned plastic engine cover. 

The car has been designed by ‘Stellantis Heritage’ - a department that looks after the ‘historic legacy’ of the various firms under the Stellantis group. Roberto Giolito, Head of Stellantis Heritage said of the Abarth Classiche 1300 OT, “Stellantis Heritage department is paying tribute to fans who still have faith in the founder’s famous motto: “Sunday on the track and Monday in the office”.

Want the latest car news in your inbox? Sign up to the free Auto Express email newsletter...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Senior news reporter

A keen petrol-head, Alastair Crooks has a degree in journalism and worked as a car salesman for a variety of manufacturers before joining Auto Express in Spring 2019 as a Content Editor. Now, as our senior news reporter, his daily duties involve tracking down the latest news and writing reviews.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Coming in hot! First look inside new Abarth 600e smokin’ hot electric SUV
Abarth 600e - front
News

Coming in hot! First look inside new Abarth 600e smokin’ hot electric SUV

The 600e will be Abarth’s most powerful car ever, and benefit from traditional hot hatch technology
31 Mar 2024

Most Popular

Cheap EV charging comes to public chargepoints via new ‘Plunge Pricing’ app
Octopus Energy’s Electroverse
News

Cheap EV charging comes to public chargepoints via new ‘Plunge Pricing’ app

Octopus’ ‘Plunge Pricing’ events promise to save electric car drivers an average of £6.50 per charge
17 May 2024
Skoda Scala vs Citroen C4 2024 twin test: which is the best-value family hatchback?
Skoda Scala and Citroen C4 - front tracking
Car group tests

Skoda Scala vs Citroen C4 2024 twin test: which is the best-value family hatchback?

The revised Skoda Scala takes on Citroen’s C4 in the battle to be the best-value family hatchback
18 May 2024
Car Deal of the Day: Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Electric at an unbeatable £201 a month
Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer front cornering
News

Car Deal of the Day: Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Electric at an unbeatable £201 a month

Our Deal of the Day selection for 18 May will appeal to those who want an all-electric family car that’s not a SUV
18 May 2024