Founded in 1949 by Carlo Abarth, the brand initially focused on creating performance exhaust systems before transitioning into automobile manufacturing. Abarth gained fame in the 1950s and 1960s for its success in motorsports, particularly in rallying and racing events. The brand was acquired by Fiat in 1971, which helped it to expand its reach and integrate performance enhancements into its models. Today, Abarth is synonymous with sporty versions of Fiat cars, offering a range of models that emphasize performance and distinctive styling.