Fiat Abarth 131 Mirafiori 

The Fiat firm, alone, made a name for themselves with success in rally during the 60s and 70s. One of the most successful models is the Abarth 131 Mirafiori.

This particular machine won the 1978 Rally of Portugal and was piloted by Markku Alen with Ilkka Kivimäki. This was one of three victories the Finnish duo was able to accomplish that year.

Here are some pictures:

 

Details are usually great. The engine's a work of art and the hinges that hold the hood, which opens suicide style, are really cool. The roll-caged interior is accurate, the seat belts look realistic, buckles are photo-etched and the gear stick is real metal. The dials are stickers but they look pretty good. The big fuel cell and battery can be found inside the trunk.

 

The beautiful deep dish, four-spoke rims are well-replicated but I feel they look a bit plasticky. Perhaps it's the paint? Also, the brake discs and calipers are a solid piece and I am thinking Kyosho didn't bother with the extra effort because these can barely be seen. This lack of attention is forgivable, though.

 

 

Looking at the exterior, the beautiful Allitalia livery is tampo-printed but the application of it is a bit thick - the livery lines can be felt but the rest isn't rough like on the Stratos.

 

To conclude, I must say this Fiat is a great model.  No, it's not perfect but essentially you get what you pay for.  For $55 (shipped), I really couldn't expect Exoto quality and that's why I am okay with the couple of flaws mentioned.  In the end, you get a model with a great engine, a sweet interior and a replica of one of the most aggressive-looking rally cars of the 70's.

That's all for now.  Thanks for reading!