1/18 custom James Brolin IMSA GTU Fiat Abarth 131

[ibj40]

Back in the day, and if you search the Internet, it is difficult to ascertain, but actor James Brolin entered a Fiat Abarth 131 in the International Motorsports Association (IMSA) GTU series.

Here is the only picture I could find, although when I saw him race, it was at the Hallett Motor Racing Circuit on July 5, 1978.

This picture is from the Monterey Triple Crown Laguna Seca April 30, 1978.



Knowing that James Brolin was there, but also knowing that the breadth of driving talent in both the GT and GTU series, notwithstanding Mr. Brolin's acting prowess, he was a respectable competitor.

Anyway, during the race weekend, I happened to be standing on line at one of the multiple Porta-Potties in the infield (which also acted as the "garage" area for all the competitors), and who might walk up behind me but, James Brolin himself.

I am sure that the expression on my face caused him to realize that I immediately recognized him, and he turned his face away.

Being a racer myself, I engaged him not in his celebrity, but in how the car was performing, and what his chances were, considering the formidable field that had presented itself.

He was not very encouraged at the moment, but appreciated my interest.

Anyway, I acquired this model in contemplation of removing some of the rallye components, and painting it to recreate this one-off racer (Racing Sports Cars shows it only appearing at Laguna Seca and Hallett).

It is a 1/18 scale Kyosho rallye Fiat Abarth 131.





With the help of the late Kenny Terry, we produced a decal sheet, and with the patient assistance of my friend Brian Moore in painting and decaling, the conversion is now complete.




 

[afx]

Nice conversion.

[TonyK]

Very interesting story and a nice job on the "model".

[Hans1971]

A Fiat in the USA ??
Sounds like a penguin in the jungle to me...?

[Rob Hall]

56 minutes ago, Hans1971 said:

A Fiat in the USA ??
Sounds like a penguin in the jungle to me...?

The 131 was sold in the US...no idea if any Abarth ones were sold here then, though..

[ibj40]

2 hours ago, Rob Hall said:

The 131 was sold in the US...no idea if any Abarth ones were sold here then, though..

I remember watching SCCA races in the late 60's and early 70's.  I want to recall at least seeing Fiat 850 and 124 Spiders, as well as maybe an Abarth coupe (with the open rear engine compartment?).

[slusher]

Very nice".

[PappyD340]

Very nice pair!