This feisty little machine is the Abarth 500 R3T, a car designed to take part in a new promotional rally trophy in 2010.
Abarth 500 R3T looks the part...
The R3T gets a Garrett GT 1446 turbocharger pushing output up to a heady 180hp at 5500rpm from its 1368cc engine. No performance figures have been released but, with the car weighing-in at only 1080kgs, performance should live up to the racy looks. Power is channelled through a six-speed sequential gearbox, and Abarth says the upgraded transmission features a self-locking differential, twin-plate clutch and special driveshafts.
There are Brembo disc brakes all round, ventilated at the front with four-pot callipers, and those great looking 7x17ins OZ asphalt rims are designed for 19/62-17 tyres.
The racing shock-absorbers are adjustable, with coaxial spring and wheel to alter the ground clearance plus special shims to adjust the castor and camber angles.
...and backs up the image with 180hp
You also get a special welded roll-bar integral with the body, all the required safety devices and FIA type-approved seats with six seatbelt anchorage points.
"The Abarth 500 rally version will be type-approved for Group R3T, the category for turbocharged cars up to 1600 cm3 in capacity. This class represents a good compromise between car cost and performance, and is ideal for private drivers and young people who want to show their worth in a true racing car, capable of outstanding performance," says Abarth, although it hasn't yet announced a price.