The Fiat Ritmo Abarth range started out with a relatively tame offering, the Fiat Ritmo Abarth 105TC. It aped the famous VW Golf GTI's performance, producing 104bhp from its 1.6L mill. As time went on, the Ritmo Abarths continued to see more powerful engine options, and by 1984, Fiat had installed a 128bhp 2.0L twin cam 4-cylinder in the Ritmo Abarth 130TC. In contrast to the fuel-injected GTI, the Ritmo Abarth sucked down fuel through twin carbs - more exciting, if not as livable in day-to-day driving. The Fiat also featured a more favorable cylinder head design, with a cross-flow twin cam architecture sure to breath better than VW's single cam reverse-flow design.

Unique trim separated the Abarth models from the standard Ritmos. Inside, optional Recaro seats were available. Exterior improvements included Abarth-specific wheel arch trim, spoilers, bumpers, as well as upgraded alloy wheels.

Year: 1984
Model:  Fiat Ritmo Abarth 130TC
Engine: 1995cc 4-cylinder
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage:  160,000km
Price: 9,900 €
Location: Piétrebais, Belgium

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1984 Fiat Ritmo Abarth 130TC

-BEAUTIFUL LIGHT RALLY PREPARATION ON THIS SUPER RUST FREE 130TC
-1.000 KM SINCE ENGINE REBUILT AND MANY NEW PARTS IN 2013
-DID A SMALL TOURISTICAL RALLY LAST SEPTEMBER WITH NICOLAS GILSOUL ( WRC THIERRY NEUVILLE'S CO-DRIVER )
-READY TO DRIVE ANYWHERE !

This example from Belgium is modified with historic rally events in mind. The interior features racing seats with 5-point racing harness, some sort of roll cage, and a large handbrake assembly. A fire extinguisher (possibly part of a fire suppression system), and an aluminum kick plate round out the rally look. The seller claims that the engine was rebuilt 1000km ago, which begs the question of why, but is definitely a positive in our book. When engines are rebuilt, the entire engine bay usually gets new hoses and consumables, resetting the maintenance clock.

We personally prefer a more original car, but for the asking price, this is a solid offering. We'd inquire into the state of the body and would want to confirm that there is not a rust problem. If you prefer a more original appearance, it's simply a matter of swapping out the seats, finding an original handbrake lever, and removing the bolted in roll cage. Or leave it all installed and enjoy ripping down some gravel roads. Either way, it should be quite an enjoyable hot hatch.

-Graham