General

Engine

Suspension

Interior

Exterior

Competition

My raw hunch is that the 131/Brava will beat similar FSP sedans, like the Datsun 510, Toyota Celica, and Renault Alliance, due to the wide torque band of the FIAT 1995cc engine and a better differential ratio.

Smaller and lighter vehicles, like the Suzuki Swift and Honda CRX HF, will be tough competition. They all have a lower center of gravity and the Swift has the best acceleration (on paper).

The key, I think, will be tweaking the suspension until it feels like a BMW 2002 or Miata. Coupled with a relentless search for the last ounce of torque at the rear wheels or reduction in weight, I suspect this will be a highly competitive car in FSP.

My rolling 4-door laboratory was shod with 205/50-13 Yokohamas on 6" rims, definitely too narrow for competition.  Results with the stock engine, indicate it's not as fast as a stock Miata, but the potential is apparent. With a fully developed engine (expect 20% more power & torque throughout the rev range compared to the factory 1995cc fuel injected engine), it will be a capable car.

Slaloms are a surprising strength, probably due to the narrowness of the body. Body roll/lean is minimal, but my front roll stiffness is a little too high--I'm lifting the inside front wheel while powering out of turns, like a Porsche 911. Wheelspin happens during abrupt manuevers, yet is controllable.