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This feisty little machine is the Abarth 500 R3T, a car designed to take part in a new promotional rally trophy in 2010.

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.

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.