In 1970, Abarth introduced the Tipo SE018, intended to replace the 1000 Sport Tipo SE04. While retaining a multi-tubular spaceframe chassis and the twin-cam Tipo 229 engine, the car was extensively redesigned: the engine was overhung behind the rear axle, the overall height was lowered, and the body adopted a wedge-shaped profile called “Cuneo”.
The car made its debut at the IV Mostra dell’Auto da Competizione, held in Turin in the early months of 1970.
Chassis no. 001/O was assembled that same year and is believed to have been one of the officially entered works cars. It was later transferred to Squadra Corse Osella following Abarth’s acquisition by FIAT.
In 1971, it was rented to Parma Corse to compete in the 55th Targa Florio with the driver pairing of Barone/Campaini - both well-known at the time for their successes in small-displacement Abarth touring cars.
On that occasion, they won the Sport Prototipi fino a 1000 cc class, finishing 14th overall. With Barone at the wheel, the car also competed in several hillclimb events, including the Trento-Bondone and Cesana-Sestriere, before being returned to Osella.
This SE018 appears to be the only example updated at the time by Baistrocchi with a belt-driven configuration.
It likely continued racing until 1978, entrusted to various drivers.
The car was later sold to an Italian collector before being acquired around ten years ago by the current owner, who commissioned a full mechanical overhaul by Facetti.
Presented today in near-original condition, it is ideal for participation in non-competitive events such as the Vernasca Silver Flag.