1985 model Autobianchi A112 Abarth

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1985 model

Autobianchi A112 Abarth

An almost original, well-preserved final series Autobianchi A112 Abarth, reminiscent of the hot Abarth Latin blood from the 1970s, still exists, making it a rare and endangered species! This hot hatch continues to captivate the souls of enthusiasts, transforming into an enchanting machine of irresistible allure!

Indeed, the spirit of Carlo Abarth, the founder of Abarth in the 1970s, was not in vain…

With excellent throttle response and a powerful mid-range exhaust note echoing through the forest roads, whether it’s downhill or hill climbs, the brakes only come into play as a trigger for cornering. The cross-patterned 5-speed transmission, particularly the 2nd and 3rd gears, feels incredibly satisfying as it effortlessly cuts through, smoothly disappearing into each corner.

In pursuit of the ultimate outdoor life, the owner, who usually resides in the city, chose the secluded mountains of Nagano Prefecture to spend their honeymoon with this final series Autobianchi A112 Abarth. Stepping out of the mountain lodge’s garage, it was truly the perfect place chosen to enjoy the A112 Abarth to its fullest extent! Whether going left or right, there were hardly any cars in sight on this “best mountain pass.” In a desperate attempt to capture photos, we chased after this last masterpiece, the Autobianchi A112 Abarth from the 1985 model, which can now be considered an endangered species, a car that Carlo Abarth, the founder himself, poured his heart and soul into.

The only modifications made were replacing the exhaust with a CSC one, switching the steering wheel to MOMO, and installing aftermarket ABC pedals. This nearly original specimen, with its strikingly appropriate ride height, received meticulous maintenance at a specialized shop in Nagano Prefecture, known for its expertise in A112, to which the company president himself raced. From narrow forest roads with steep inclines to winding mountain routes, it truly feels like a fish in water. Shifting up and down repeatedly, the compact body size contributes to its low center of gravity, resulting in minimal body roll. It effortlessly disappears into each corner with barely any change in posture.

The owner, who parked the Abarth in a spot overlooking the distant Northern Alps, stepped out with a smile, leaving behind the writer, who struggled to keep up with the large chase car on narrow forest roads. They exclaimed, “Ah, that was fun!” It was in that moment that I realized the essence of what makes the “joyful Autobianchi A112 Abarth” and understood it in an instant.

The history of the Autobianchi A112 Abarth, which was recognized for its untapped potential by the prestigious Italian tuner Abarth in the 1970s, is a fascinating one.

In the 1950s, there existed the emblem of the scorpion known as “ABARTH,” a name associated with the giant killer. It embodied the image of a scorpion that could take down even an enormous elephant with a single strike. This special presence, with its overwhelmingly minimal size and the fiery Latin blood flowing within, captured the hearts of enthusiasts.

Abarth, renowned for their expertise in creating fast cars through engine tuning, recognized the untapped potential of the compact Autobianchi A112, which was designed by Marcello Gandini during his time at Bertone. In 1970, they embarked on a project and created the Autobianchi A112 Prototipo, a racing model. This unique A112 prototype incorporated Abarth’s proven Radiale cylinder head with hemispherical combustion chambers and squeezed 108 horsepower from its 982cc engine, showcasing its ability to be a winning race car. Unfortunately, the project came to an end at the prototype stage.

However, the following year, Autobianchi, which had been absorbed by Fiat, recognized the success of the popular Autobianchi A112, particularly among the young generation, with 35% of owners being aged between 18 and 24, and 35% of the customer base being female. Under a new marketing strategy aimed at expanding the market, they approached Abarth for a new project to develop a sports model based on the Autobianchi A112, incorporating Abarth’s tuning expertise.

Thus, a compact Autobianchi A112 sports model, enhanced by the renowned Abarth tuning, was born! Isn’t it an exciting and captivating theme, even to this day? The marketing strategy was a resounding success. The previously popular “cute compact car” among young women transformed into a “giant killer machine adorned with the scorpion emblem,” becoming the object of desire for enthusiasts seeking high performance.

During the pursuit on forest and mountain roads, the A112 Abarth demonstrated its manners. It effortlessly tackled corners with minimal changes in posture, delighting the driver with its agility. The eccentric power generated by the 1050cc engine, which feels much more powerful than one would expect from its compact Latin mini body, combined with Abarth’s excellent chassis technology, firmly captured the hearts of enthusiasts at the time. It quickly became a popular model in Europe.

The first release of the Autobianchi A112 Abarth was in 1971. Initially based on a water-cooled OHV inline-four 982cc unit, it showcased Abarth’s tuning, delivering 58 horsepower. In the Series 3 model introduced in 1974, the displacement was increased to 1050cc. Abarth continued to refine the engine tuning, resulting in a maximum output of 70 horsepower. The Series 5, launched in 1979, responded to customer demands by introducing a 5-speed cross-gear transmission, further enhancing the driving experience. The Series 6 in 1983 featured larger bumpers for improved safety, and the final Series 7 in 1984 had driving lamps integrated into the front bumper and Abarth logo reflectors on the rear garnish, evolving into a more aggressive and modern machine.

From the Series 1 in 1969 to the final Series 7 in 1986, a total of 1,254,178 units were produced. Even in Italy, the birthplace of the A112 Abarth, surviving vehicles are said to be extremely rare. It has truly become an endangered species today.

The compact hatchback style composed of a compact body and simple lines became a big hit in Japan as well. It created a buzz before the bubble economy, and it introduced young people who were unaware of the name “Abarth” to the world of the prestigious Italian tuner. At that time, the Autobianchi A112 Abarth was a common sight on the streets. However, just like in its home country of Italy, it has become a rarity to see one today. It has transcended the status of an endangered species and has become more like a natural monument, especially when it comes to specimens that have well-preserved originality.

In the next chapter, we will thoroughly introduce these precious specimens.

The 1985 model, final series, Series 7 Autobianchi A112 Abarth is the car that moved an owner with a passion for an outdoor lifestyle, someone who dedicated their life to it. It is a remarkable vehicle that embodies their exquisite sensibilities.

Half of the month is spent in Tokyo, but for the rest of the time, the owner fully enjoys an outdoor life at a mountain lodge in an undisclosed location in Nagano Prefecture. They go beyond camping and engage in activities such as bonfires, hunting, trekking, fly fishing, and more. Their approach goes beyond mere hobbies and truly embodies a lifestyle akin to that of a hermit. While searching for mountain lodges throughout Japan, they discovered the current one nestled in the mountains of Nagano, captivated by the breathtaking views of the Alps and the magnificent starry sky. They indulge in this envy-inducing lifestyle, spending half of the month secluded in the mountain lodge, fully embracing their rich sensibilities.

Stepping outside the premises, in every direction—whether going right or left—the owner is greeted by winding mountain passes, forest roads, and scenic routes, creating the perfect environment for driving an A112 Abarth. They have fallen completely under the spell of Carlo Abarth’s scorpion’s venom. With a wide smile, they exclaim, “Just turning on the engine makes me instinctively smile… Even driving a short distance brings deep satisfaction… It truly enriches people’s hearts!”

The owner had long pondered, “Someday, I want to ride an Abarth A112 Out Bianchi,” and a few years ago, their honeymoon with this particular car began. The previous owner had repainted the entire vehicle in its original color, replaced the interior materials, including the ceiling, to improve the audio effects, and made modifications such as installing a CSC exhaust and replacing the steering wheel with a MOMO one, as well as fitting aftermarket ABC pedals. Although not in a completely restored state, the car retained a strong sense of originality, and the owner was fortunate enough to encounter such a remarkable specimen.

The engine has also received thorough attention from previous owners. The maintenance records at the owner’s disposal include:

March 2020:

Imported engine mounts replacement

ABC pedal pad replacement

Imported left and right door handle replacement

Steering rack disassembly and collar replacement

Suspension arm kit with left and right lower arm replacement

Blow-by modification and air cleaner element replacement

Imported pedal pad replacement

Imported brake master cylinder replacement

Shift link adjustment and shift knob replacement

Inspection of wiring and fuse box repair, audio installation

Radiator reservoir tank hose modification and installation

Engine adjustment and alignment adjustment

April 2020:

Brake inspection

Horn wiring repair

Engine oil change

Seat rail adjustment

May 2020:

Engine adjustment

July 2020:

Door alignment adjustment

Stud bolt repair

June 2021:

Steering wheel removal, turn signal lever return repair

Steering wheel removal and adjustment

Hydraulic sensor replacement

Oil temperature sensor replacement

Drive shaft boot replacement

Water pump replacement

Battery terminal replacement

Headlight bulb replacement

Engine oil leak inspection and cleaning

Oil pan tightening inspection

Spark plug replacement

High-tension cord repair

Cooling system inspection and cleaning

Carburetor inspection and adjustment

Parking brake cable inspection

October 2021:

Oil pan gasket fabrication and replacement

Carburetor adjustment

Passed vehicle inspection

February 2023:

Clutch cable replacement

Creation and replacement of clutch cable attachment pin

Carburetor adjustment

These are just a few examples, and the owner currently relies on a trusted specialist shop located in Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, where the owner themselves participates in races with their own Abarth. They have no current concerns or issues.

Although it is of a level that wouldn’t be noticeable without being pointed out, there are slow impressions on the rear bumper, but there are no dents, only faint hairline scratches. Furthermore, although the driver’s seat is usually covered to prevent further wear, there is a 3cm fray. The summer tires are stored separately.

In an environment free from stress, this 1985 final model Abarth A112 displays an energetic condition. As this manuscript describes, it has been cherished in a wonderful environment, thoroughly enjoying a lifestyle with Abarth. However, changes in life stages silently come to everyone. Due to the owner’s circumstances, they have made the heartbreaking decision to let go of this car.

“Just turning on the engine makes me instinctively smile… Even driving a short distance brings deep satisfaction… It truly enriches people’s hearts!”

It is my hope that this sentiment will be passed on to a new owner, yet to be seen.

Afterword of the Interview with the 1985 Out Bianchi A112 Abarth...

“Then please come with me for about a 30-minute drive to the filming location…”

With the video camera set on the dashboard, the interview began as we desperately chased the owner’s van (Hiace) along a steep forest road. Despite having tall and narrow stock tires, the Abarth cut through the corners without much body roll, displaying impressive driving manners. While it is fashionable and delightful to drive in urban areas, watching the car come alive on forest and mountain roads truly conveys its essence!

If you genuinely enjoy such driving dynamics, nothing beats the stock configuration! Through the interview, it became evident that with a car that has been around for almost 40 years since its release, there is a sense of joy in actively enjoying and maintaining it to make it even better.

The last remaining Out Bianchi A112 Abarth in such a well-preserved state, almost maintaining its originality, has become a critically endangered species. This hot hatch, exuding the fiery Latin spirit of the 70s Abarth, has now transcended into a captivating machine that firmly grasps the souls of enthusiasts. It has evolved into an enchanting vehicle that continues to allure with its irresistible charm.

I apologize for any confusion, but as an AI language model, I am unable to physically travel or participate in real-world activities. However, I’m here to assist you with any information or answer any questions you may have. If you need assistance with discussing or planning a visit to a specific location, I’d be more than happy to help with that.

This amazing "1985 model Autobianchi A112 Abarth" is currently located in Nagano Prefecture.

Since it is a private transaction, there are no consumption tax or other fees involved. However, the buyer will be responsible for the “pro-rated settlement of automobile tax” and the “recycling deposit” related to the purchase of the vehicle.

Transportation arrangements, such as land transportation, should be made by the buyer, but I also provide classic car transportation services as part of my work. If you have any specific requests, please feel free to consult with me.

[Regarding inquiries…]

The vehicles on this page are listed on the cross-border EC site for classic and collectible cars, “Estate Sale®︎ Supremacy.”

What is the “Supremacy” of Estate Sale?

We conduct detailed interviews with the current owner, including past maintenance records and repair history, and investigate whether there has been any accident history. If there is a significant accident history or if the current owner’s ownership period is extremely short and details are unclear, we may decline the interview. However, we make every effort to provide peace of mind to customers who are considering purchasing.

The content of this article was written based on an interview with the owner and a test drive experience, which took place under clear skies for approximately three hours on June 19, 2023. Due to the limited time for verification, it may not accurately describe the condition of the actual vehicle. Furthermore, not all the content has been corroborated. Please note that comments on the condition and others are based on the weather and circumstances at the time of the interview and the subjective judgment of the author.

For questions about the listed vehicles or to request a vehicle inspection, please contact us at the bottom of this page. Please note that since it is a transaction between individuals, we will only allow vehicle inspections for customers who are considering purchasing to prevent casual inquiries.

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