1978 FIAT 131

Inspired by one of the most iconic World Rally Championship cars of the 1970s, this exceptional 1977 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally Evocation has been built to faithfully recreate the legendary Works rally cars that secured Fiat's place in motorsport history. Finished in the instantly recognisable blue and yellow Olio Fiat livery of the 1977 Tour de Corse-winning car, it is an impressively detailed tribute that combines authentic period appearance with proven event history and an excellent mechanical specification.

Built in 2014 by respected Finnish builder Pertti Minetti using a genuine two-door Fiat 131 donor car, the car faithfully recreates the appearance of the famous 1977 Corsica Rally-winning Works machine. Between 2015 and 2018 it formed part of the displays at both the Mobilia Rally Museum and the Vaasa Car Museum in Finland, highlighting the quality and authenticity of the build. The current owner subsequently purchased the car in Finland before importing it into the United Kingdom, where it was first registered in March 2026.

Adding further significance to its history, the car participated in the Historic Rally Hall of Fame event during the 2018 Neste WRC Rally Finland. It was driven twice on the legendary Harju Special Stage by World Rally Championship legend Markku Alén, who also signed the dashboard, providing a unique and highly desirable link to one of Fiat's most celebrated factory drivers.

Power comes from a spirited 2.0-litre Fiat twin-cam engine breathing through a pair of Weber 44 carburettors, paired with a Fiat five-speed synchromesh gearbox and Fiat limited-slip differential. It is understood that renowned Finnish rally engineer Timo Lintunen may have had involvement in the engine build, although no supporting documentation accompanies the car to verify this. Further competition specification includes a reinforced chassis and hydraulic handbrake, making it equally suited to historic regularity events, demonstrations or spirited road use.

The car is accompanied by a Motorsport UK FIA Regularity Run Passport, allowing entry into a wide range of historic rally and touring events. Recent maintenance includes the installation of a Fiat 131 Abarth steering wheel in May 2026, together with EBC Turbo Groove front brake discs, EBC Greenstuff front brake pads and new front brake calipers fitted in June 2026.

Inside, the competition-inspired cockpit features Sparco bucket seats with multi-point harnesses, a full roll cage, hydraulic handbrake, rally instrumentation and auxiliary controls, all contributing to an authentic period rally atmosphere. Externally, the iconic box-arched bodywork, rear spoiler, Abarth alloy wheels and correct Works-style graphics ensure the car perfectly captures the presence of the legendary Fiat factory rally cars.

With documented museum history, participation in a prestigious WRC heritage event, a dashboard signed by Markku Alén and eligibility for Motorsport UK regularity competition, this Fiat 131 Abarth Rally Evocation presents a rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully executed tribute to one of rallying's greatest icons. Whether enjoyed on the road, entered into historic events or displayed as part of a collection, it is guaranteed to attract attention and admiration wherever it appears.

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