Left to right: Abarth 750 GT Zagato; Abarth Porsche Carrera GTL; Abarth-Simca 1300 GT Abarth’s success in creating a small GT car with big motor sport potential was fully consolidated by the end of the 1950s. The Fiat 600 had provided an excellent chassis/mechanical basis, and with a lightweight body by Zagato, the 750 GT had been a winner since its 1956 launch. Aesthetically characterised in its early form by the double-bubble roof and ‘matching’ twin hump engine cover, (to optimise delivery of cooling air to the bay), the 750 became an icon of the era. By sports/GT industry sector standards, a substantial number of cars was built, (500-600 units), through to 1960. Over time, various engine options were introduced: 500, in ‘57/’58, 750 Bialbero, (twin cam), from ’58, subsequently, 700 and 850 versions, and, eventually, a 1 litre, both single cam and Bialbero. In 1959, Abarth showed its ability with another ‘base,’ this time the Porsche 356, creating...
