In the landscape of 1950s motorsport, few combinations proved as potent as the marriage of FIAT mechanicals, Abarth engineering, and Zagato coachwork. This fusion of Italian expertise materialized brilliantly in 1956 as the FIAT-Abarth 750 GT ‘Double Bubble,’ a lightweight sports car that demonstrated how clever design could transform modest components into racing success.
The heart of this diminutive performer was a modified FIAT 600 engine, expanded from 633cc to 747cc. Abarth’s engineering changes included an upgraded camshaft, revised flywheel, and larger carburetor, resulting in nearly 40 horsepower. Despite its modest output, the lightweight car achieved impressive speeds exceeding 80 mph, making it competitive in its class. The aluminum bodywork, crafted by Milan’s Zagato coachworks, showcased the finest Italian design elements of the 1950s. Its most distinctive feature, the twin roof bulges that gave rise to the ‘Double Bubble’ nickname, emerged from a practical need.
When initial sketches revealed insufficient headroom for average-height drivers, Zagato added two gentle roof domes to maintain aerodynamic efficiency while accommodating taller occupants. The car’s clean lines included rounded fenders, minimal overhangs, and a low-slung profile. Inside the snug cockpit, basic instrumentation provided essential information while maintaining focus on the driving experience. The minimalist approach to interior design kept weight down and highlighted the car’s sporting intentions. Despite compact dimensions, the clever packaging allowed sufficient space for two occupants.
The chassis utilized independent front suspension with a transverse leaf spring, while the rear featured trailing arms with coil springs. This setup, combined with a short 79-inch wheelbase, provided extremely agile handling characteristics. Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes managed stopping duties effectively given the car’s light weight.
The 750 GT competed against other small-displacement sports cars like the Berkeley Sports and AC Ace-Bristol. Its success in competition helped establish Abarth’s reputation for extracting impressive performance from modest FIAT platforms. Here below is a set of amazing photos of the 1958 Fiat-Abarth 750 GT ‘Double Bubble’.
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