Fiat Abarth OT1000 Coupe S1

The OT 1000 was based on the Fiat 850 Coupé. The 850 Coupé was a fantastic success for the Fiat factory and it did not take long for Abarth to come up with something a bit hotter that was aimed at those who thought the standard 47 bhp model wasn't really ‘pokey' enough. In 1965 the OT 1000 Coupé was launched, with the same engine that powered the Fiat 600 derived Abarth versions. Specifications included a naturally aspirated, straight four, overhead valve engine that produced 61 bhp at 6,200 rpm. Performance on the road was electric, with a top speed of 98 mph. An incredible achievement in 1965, given that the small power unit's capacity came in at a tiny 982 cc. Later models included the 1300, 1600 and the ferocious OT 2000, but none were offered for street use. That OT means Omologato Turismo, a designation allotted to cars that met homologation requirements for Touring car racing. As is typically the case with Abarth factory records, no reliable production figures are known. However, the OT 1000 is extremely rare and was produced until 1969.

Starting from the base of the engine, the Abarth specification first lists a nitrided crank, ready balanced, lengthening the stroke from 64 to 74 mm. and increasing the capacity to 982 c.c. Special pistons and connecting rods are fitted, a new camshaft installed, while the exhaust-manifold and silencer are improved. The Weber 30 DIC carburetter and inlet manifolding is not touched. A finned alloy sump not only looks highly impressive but increases the oil capacity to 9.5 pints, so with the twin exhaust tailpipe and much lowered suspension there is not much difficulty in mistaking the Abarth.

This 1965 Fiat Abarth OT 1000 Coupe is one of the first produced. It has resided in the USA all of its life and has been well preserved by the sunny and dry Nevada climate. The body has not been restored within recent years and is in a very original condition with consistent shut lines and no rust. The OT1000 has an immaculate black interior. There are no rips or tears and the seats look as if they have barely been used. Judging by the overall condition of the car, the odometer reading of only 76.000 miles would appear to be genuine, although this cannot be confirmed. Mechanically the Abarth and the Tipo 202/B engine are in a good condition.

Technical data

	Fiat Abarth OT1000 Coupe
Year	1965 - 1969
Engine	Tipo 202 B; 4 cylinder inline
Displacement	982,2 cc
Bore x Stroke	65 x 74 mm
Max. Power	61 bhp at 6.150 rpm
Top speed	98 mph
Weight	730 kg
Price	1.160.000 lire in 1965
Design	Boano