quote:Originally posted by PanteraDoug:
I wondering the significance of a factory built race car right now unless 1) you collect these things and need one for your collection or 2) you need a documented one to run in historic races?
Anyone can build one now that is far superior to any of the original cars if you just want that level of performance and are willing to accept the short comings of driving a legal race car on the street.
In other words, why bother?
When in 1986 came time to send #4654 to the factory, my father was advised of all the upgrades possible to change the original brakes to the Brembo calipers and discs with Gr 3 specs. A modification at the time that would set you back 8 million liras (4000 USD at the time). Koni shocks and race sway bars/ roll bar were available as well. Engine had already been done by Ismo Sabattini and could seriously perform - almost too much for road use in today's traffic. I just wish I still had it and could share the mechanical modifications done, the most recent new owner had it redone again the year before the factory closed. I think at any point the Gr3 mods were successful enough to be recommended for the cars going in for restoration at the factory to allow track use in sanctioned racing. In Italy at the time was especially popular to use them for "gare in salita" hillclimb.