The number of Abarth tuned Fiats produced over the years is rather staggering. Just when I think I've seen and read about every model there is, another oddball creation pops up that I never knew existed. Such is the case with this Abarth 1000 OTR, which stands for Omologato Turismo Radiale. This name represented the fact that this car, based on the Fiat 850, was homologated for Group 3 racing by the FIA. Radiale means radial, which referred to the car's new engine with hemispherical combustion chambers. This engine produced a little over 100 horsepower from just shy of 1.0 liter. Around 35 examples were thought to have been produced, making this OTR for sale in California quite a unique opportunity to acquire some vintage Abarth iron.

1967 Fiat Abarth 1000 OTR

An original 1967 Fiat Abarth 1000 OTR. Only three dozen of these were produced worldwide before production ended. Most likely less than 10 are in the United States. This Fiat is completely original except for the paint; it was resprayed in the early 1970's after being polished extensively at shows and concours. Based of the Fiat 850 Coupe, this little Abarth has a 982 cc inline 4 cylinder good for 84 hp (850 coupe has 34hp). There is not a better condition Abarth 1000 OTR in the world. This Abarth is in absolutely excellent, original condition. It has undergone an extensive mechanical restoration at The Pit Stop in Brisbane, California.

History:
-First owned by John Edgar, an Abarth sub dealer in the Pacific NW.
-Owned by Chris Obert in Santa Cruz, CA for 30 years.
-Purchased by Dave Steel in Carmel, CA.
-Purchased by current owner. Resides in Brisbane, CA, south of San Francisco.

Some of Abarth's best have reached into six figure territory and this OTR is really rather close to that territory. Since so few were made, it's hard to place a value on cars like these. If I had to estimate, I'd say we're probably in the $45,000 to $70,000 range. I want to like this car, but I can't help but think I could get the best Lancia Fulvia or Alfa Romeo GTV for much less money. Granted, they are not exactly the same class of vehicle, but you really have to be an Abarth nut to spend this kind of money on what was meant to take on the Mini Cooper S back in the day.

-Paul