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Topic starter
28/09/2026 10:18 pm
1961 Fiat-Abarth 850 SS Record Monza 'Coda Tronca'
From Amazing Classic Cars
Zagato's aluminum bodywork and aerodynamic design distinguished the 850 Record Monza from Abarth's earlier Fiat-based competition cars. Built in limited numbers for the 1960 and 1961 racing seasons, this model addressed displacement regulations in the Italian Gran Turismo championship's 850-cc category.
The Milanese coachbuilder's lightweight construction methods combined with Abarth's Turin-based engineering created a capable track machine based on Fiat's 600 platform.
An 847-cc inline four-cylinder engine (commonly referred to as 850 cc) with a single overhead camshaft and a twin-choke Weber carburetor generated approximately 70 to 75 horsepower in competition tune.
The chassis retained the Fiat 600–derived layout with front upper A-arms and a transverse leaf spring, rear swing axles with coil springs, and hydraulic dampers at all corners. Four-wheel drum brakes completed the 78.7-inch wheelbase (2,000 mm) package.
Competition results validated the design, with class successes at events including endurance races at Monza and strong showings in hill climbs and road races such as the Targa Florio. These small-displacement Abarths regularly punched above their weight against larger-engined rivals.
This topic was modified 3 weeks ago by John Bono
John Bono
North Jersey
28/09/2026 11:09 pm
I love it, John, but I wonder if I’d fit behind the wheel. I’ll tell you what though I would try my damnedest trying. 👍
steve
John Kuvakas and Tony Perrone reacted
29/09/2026 3:25 am
Interesting timing John, I have this on the way after ordering a couple of days ago. Hachette et al are producing a series of 1/24 Abarth models.
Abarth 205 A Berlinetta Monza - 1950
I cannot get enough of exotic European cars, especially in 1/24.
Sothebys have one for sale: https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/lf16/lots/r130-1961-fiatabarth-850-ss-record-monza-coda-tronca-by-zagato/
Couldn't find a video. Another brilliant choice, thanks John
Topic starter
29/09/2026 5:30 am
Geoff, go figure. Thanks for the info.Interesting timing John, I have this on the way after ordering a couple of days ago. Hachette et al are producing a series of 1/24 Abarth models.
Abarth 205 A Berlinetta Monza - 1950
I cannot get enough of exotic European cars, especially in 1/24.
Sothebys have one for sale: https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/lf16/lots/r130-1961-fiatabarth-850-ss-record-monza-coda-tronca-by-zagato/
Couldn't find a video. Another brilliant choice, thanks John
John Bono
North Jersey
John Kuvakas and Tony Perrone reacted
29/09/2026 5:38 am
Another cool little learning lesson. Formerly familiar with the car but not its story. Thanks John!
John Kuvakas and John Bono reacted
29/09/2026 6:39 am
Another pretty little Fiat Abarth from that period was the 1000 Bialbero (twin cam) GT. I think basically the same body but without the Kamm tail which may have been a later modification to improve the aerodynamics.
Solido did a delightful model of it, a tiny little thing in various colours with different race numbers.
Spark also did it in 1:43 with opening engine compartment
Graeme.M. Ogg
London U.K.
Topic starter
29/09/2026 10:04 am
Graeme Ogg, thanks for the pics.Another pretty little Fiat Abarth from that period was the 1000 Bialbero (twin cam) GT. I think basically the same body but without the Kamm tail which may have been a later modification to improve the aerodynamics.
Solido did a delightful model of it, a tiny little thing in various colours with different race numbers.
Spark also did it in 1:43 with opening engine compartment
John Bono
North Jersey