In 1976, Fiat introduced the world to the 131 Abarth Rally — a wildly successful Group 4 rally car that would secure a trio of manufacturers’ World Rally Championship titles in ’77, ’78, and ’80. And though it’s now been a full four decades since the 131AR’s last official race, Abarth has opted to mark the occasion with a limited-edition 695 model that pays homage to the late ’70s-era three-time title winner.
Under the hood, the 695 gets a 1.4-liter inline-four engine with a Garret GT 1446 turbocharger that puts down 180hp and 184ft-lbs of torque — allowing for sub-seven-second 0-60mph times and a top speed of 140mph. Mated to a five-speed automatic or manual gearbox, the engine also features high-performance BMC filtration and a Record Monza Sovrapposto exhaust culminating in a quad-pipe muffler arrangement. The limited-edition model’s immense stopping power is owed to its Brembo braking hardware while razor-sharp handling is made possible through the use of an upgraded, lowered suspension package with KONI Frequency Selective damping shocks, a front McPherson strut backed by a stabilizer bar, and a rear Torsion axle with an anti-roll bar.
This sporty daily driver also rides on a set of exclusive 17” black diamond wheels and sports an adjustable rear spoiler. Trimmed in black leather and Alcantara upholstery package with blue accent stitching and inserts, the interior of the car gets Sabelt race seats, a short-throw shifter, metal pedals, and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The entire car also comes cloaked in a special Blue Rally livery juxtaposed with myriad black details — a paint scheme that pays homage to the 131 Rally’s original race livery. Special 131 Rally graphics also adorn the interior and exterior of the car.
Limited to only 695 units worldwide, the 2023 Abarth 695 Tributo 131 Rally is scheduled to hit dealerships in the UK market later this spring, with pricing starting from £32,325 (~ $39,850).
