19 Jun 08 16:49
Fiat is to launch three all-new sports cars in 2010: rear-wheel-drive Lancia and Alfa Romeo models and a stand-alone Abarth two-seater inspired by the Lotus Elise.
The Abarth 'Elise' is said to be mid-engined and ultra-lightweight like that of the Elise. Power will come from one of the Fiat Group's small turbocharged engines, perhaps the 1.4 as in the 500 and Grand Punto Abarth.
Lancia Fulvia concept
Part of the car may even be supplied by Lotus. Apparently, Fiat is to buy-in the chassis from an external supplier, with only final assembly at its Abarth facility in Mirafiori, near Turin.
The Lancia sports car is thought to be the 'new Fulvia', inspired by the Fulvia concept seen back in 2003. A coupe-cabriolet body-style has been rumoured, and although there's no word the underpinnings, it could well be rear-wheel-drive. The same platform will be used for an Alfa Romeo coupe, too, which could revive either the Giulia or Giulietta names.
