60 bhp, 982 cc inline four-cylinder engine, two-barrel Weber carburettor, four-speed manual transmission, independent upper wishbone with transverse leaf spring front, coil springs and swing axle rear suspension, and front wheel disc rear wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 1,999 mm (78.7")

• Sprightly Abarth-tuned variant

• Welcome at a wide range of vintage events

• Well maintained

The success of the Zagato-bodied 750 GT in competitions across Europe and in America had brought Carlo Abarth both great recognition and financial benefit. The 850 Record Monza, which succeeded the 750 GT and the 1000 that followed, carried bodies designed and built by Abarth, which had taken the work in-house from Zagato. Clearly an evolution of the Zagato shape, the 1000 is decidedly more businesslike and aggressive.

The 1000 Bialbero or ‘twin cam’, was introduced in 1961 as the successor to the twin cam Record Monza. In addition to the twin cam intended for competition use, the 982 cc engine was also offered in a pushrod variant, as the 1000 Monomille. This was aimed at owners who wanted an easier to maintain engine for use on the street and lower level motorsport.

This Monomille has been regularly used in Italian vintage events, such as the 1995 Coppa d’Oro delle Dolomiti and other Italian historic race meetings. A recent inspection found the Abarth to be in very presentable condition, as it is an older restoration that was carried out to a high standard and shows signs of use but also of regular maintenance.

The bright yellow paint is very much of the period and suits the compact lines well. The panel fit is good and all the exterior bright trim is present and in good condition, including the front and rear bumperettes and all the distinctive Abarth badging. The distinctive, correct, original alloy wheels could benefit from refinishing but do not detract from the overall appearance of the car. Inside, the original large Jaeger instruments grace the dashboard and the original bucket seats are correct, as are the upholstered door panels and rear compartment. This Fiat Abarth is a delightful car with which to run in the many vintage rally and tour events around Europe, in charming GT fashion.