Friedlich

Wie es vom 750er- zum 850er-Motor kam bei Abarth und was sonst noch alles möglich war auf Basis des so braven Fiat 600, das haben wir ja schon erzählt, hier. Doch das waren ja praktisch alles Renngeräte, sowohl die Fiat-Abarth als direkte Derivate wie auch die von den verschiedenen «Carrozzerie» eingekleideten Abarth-Modelle; so richtig berühmt wurden die 750er Zagato. Doch es gab auch eine zivile Variante, ein sehr hübsches Coupé von Allemano.

Die Carrozzeria Allemano, 1928 von Serafino Allemano in Turin gegründet, gehört nicht zu den ganz grossen Namen unter den italienischen Design-Studios. Was eigentlich erstaunlich ist, denn Allemano schuf einige wunderbare Stücke für Maserati und auch Ferrari, die durch ihre Eleganz überzeugen konnten. Dass Allemano nicht berühmter ist, dürfte auch daran liegen, dass die Tore in Turin schon 1965 geschlossen wurden – und dass viele Entwürfe des Hauses gerne Giovanni Michelotti zugeschrieben werden. Ob Michelotti seine begabten Hände auch am Abarth 850 Allemano Coupé hatte, das ist nicht erwiesen – adrett ist es auf jeden Fall. Ein feiner, kleiner GranTurismo, von dem wohl fast 200 Stück entstanden, was Anfang der 60er Jahre sowohl für Abarth wie für Allemano ein anständiger kommerzieller Erfolg war. Es sollen noch etwa 30 Exemplare existieren.

Noch ein paar schöne Bilder und Details. Dieser Fiat Abarth 850 Allemand wurde über Hyman Ltd. verkauft, angeboten mit folgendem Text: «Our featured 1960 Abarth 850 Allemano is a beautiful example of this jewel-like GT car from the small car masters at Abarth & C. S.p.A. This gorgeous machine is one of only 10 of its kind known to be in the US, and has been treated to a meticulous restoration to correct specification, completed in late 2009. It presents in a simple but flattering livery of white over red trim which suits the delicately proportioned body very well indeed. The paint quality is very good, with a consistent finish that shows very little use since the restoration was completed. To keep weight to a minimum alloy was used to skin the doors and deck lids, all of which remain straight, tidy and properly aligned. In period, Road & Track remarked on Allemano’s outstanding build quality, which is emulated in our example’s fine restoration. Minimal brightwork lets the shape of the sheetmetal speak for itself, with simple bumpers and sill trims providing a bit of protection. The plating and polishing is to a very good standard, remaining in fine condition since its restoration. Despite its diminutive size, the cabin of the Allemano is surprisingly roomy and comfortable, with plenty of room for driver’s over 6’ tall and even a generous luggage shelf behind the seats. The red upholstery on the seats and door cards has been restored using correct materials and patterns and presents in wonderful condition, still appearing quite fresh. Floors are lined in tan squareweave carpet, which again presents in fine condition. The dash is an exercise in functional elegance; the simple body-color fascia adorned with basic switchgear and three large-clear dials behind the gorgeous three-spoke steering wheel. Carlo Abarth’s expertise has been bestowed on the little 833 c.c. inline four. Thanks to an aggressive cam, bespoke intake with large Weber carburetor, tuned distributor and a lovely tubular exhaust header, the diminutive engine was rated in period at 54 horsepower. With a paltry 1,345 pounds to move, the 850 is easily in Porsche and Alfa territory in terms of power to weight. As part of this car’s restoration, the missing original block was replaced with a “crate” A112 unit and meticulously built to correct specification using original components. It now presents in clean, tidy condition, as it would when new, with correct Abarth accessories. The engine is very healthy, starting easily and emitting a growl from the tuned exhaust at idle that turns into an intoxicating bellow as the revs build. This delectable Abarth 850 Allemano is one of the finest examples available, and beyond its beautiful coachwork and outstanding presentation, the driving experience is simply delightful. The light steering, surprisingly balanced chassis and jewel-like engine make it one of the most enjoyable, alluring driver’s cars we have had the pleasure to offer. The high quality restoration has mellowed very slightly, and its practical nature makes it the ideal choice for events, rallies, tours, and carving up your favorite roads. The 850 Allemano was described by Road & Track in their 1960 road test as “An almost indecently desirable automobile” – a statement which we find hard to fault.»

Die Übersicht über alle unsere Abarth-Stories: hier.