Overview

Porsche commissioned a small number of lightweight 356B racecars from Abarth, the Turin-based racing specialist. The restyled bodywork was made from aluminium and sleeker and more aerodynamic than the standard 356. The interior was stripped out to save weight, too. The GTL was powered by an uprated 1600 engine with double overhead cams.

Three versions were offered, producing 115bhp, 128bhp and 135bhp; the power differences were mainly down to the exhaust system. Just 21 examples were built and sold to wealthy customers.

How to spot

Lower than standard 356 with simple buffers in place of bumpers. Central fuel filler. No hubcaps.

Variations

Three exhaust systems were offered; standard, sports and Sebring, which dictated the power output.

Specifications

Capacity: 1582cc

Compression ratio: 7.5:1

Maximum Power: 115bhp at 6500rpm (standard), 128bhp at 6700rpm (sports), 135bhp at 7400rpm (Sebring)

Maximum Torque: 135Nm at 5500rpm (standard), 139Nm at 6000rpm (sports), 148Nm at 5800rpm (Sebring)

Brakes: Front: 280x60mm drums; rear: 280x40mm drums

Suspension: Front: Two swinging arms with two transvers torsion bar springs, telescopic dampers and anti-roll bar; Rear: Swing axles with radius arms, two torsion bar springs and telescopic dampers. Compensating spring.

Wheels & Tyres: Front: 4.5Jx15 with 5.90/15 tyres 4.5Jx15 with 5.90/15 tyres (optional radial tyres: 165R/15)

Length: 3980mm

Did you know?

0-60mph: 8.8 sec (Sebring) Top speed: 138mph (Sebring)

Abarth was sold to Fiat in 1971 and today the name is used on a range-topping Fiat 500.