The Autobianchi A112 Abarth 70 HP was the most potent version of the A112 lineup and a true pocket rocket of its era. Developed by Abarth, Fiat’s renowned racing and tuning division, this version of the small hatchback was introduced in the late 1970s and quickly gained a cult following among enthusiasts for its spirited performance and agile handling.

Under the hood, it featured a 1,050 cc inline-four engine tuned to deliver 70 horsepower—a considerable figure for such a compact car weighing under 750 kg. With its twin-choke Weber carburetor, a high-lift camshaft, and free-flow exhaust, the engine revved eagerly and delivered a raspy, aggressive exhaust note that complemented its sporty nature.

The A112 Abarth 70 HP had a five-speed manual gearbox, front disc brakes, and a revised suspension setup that included firmer springs and dampers, providing better road holding and responsiveness. Its front-wheel-drive layout, short wheelbase, and low weight made it a nimble performer on twisty roads and ideal for slaloms and rally stages.

Visually, it stood out from standard A112 models thanks to flared wheel arches, Abarth badging, sportier alloy wheels, fog lamps, and unique trim options inside and out. The interior featured a sport steering wheel, bucket seats, and a distinctive dashboard with additional gauges.

In many ways, the A112 Abarth 70 HP was a precursor to the modern hot hatch. It offered everyday usability wrapped in a punchy, driver-focused package that could embarrass larger and more powerful cars on the right road. Today, it remains a beloved classic in the small performance car world.