Here’s one of the most insane tuning programs that we ever had the pleasure of talking about. An unheard of tuner from Italy by the name of Lazzarini Design is looking for an automotive enthusiast that is willing to spend approximately $550,000 to squeeze the engine from a Ferrari 458 Italia into a tiny Fiat 500.
Dubbed the Fiat 550 Italia, it will be powered by a de-tuned version of the V8 4.5-liter engine found in the 458 Italia which will develop approximately 550 hp. This power unit will be installed at the back of the car, where the tuner will also put the transmission and suspension parts, along with the modified limited slip differential.
In order to make room for the engine, the wheelbase of the Fiat 500 will be stretched by 12 inches (300 mm) to 102.4 inches (2,600 mm), while the wide bodykit developed for the car is going to add 12 inches (300 mm) to each side of the rear end, while each side of the front will be 7.9 inches (200 mm) wider.
The car’s fuel tank is going to be installed on the front-end which sounds kind of risky in case of an unfortunate accident. The total weight of the car is estimated at 2,200 lbs and in order to obtain an optimal weight distribution, the tuner said that the car will get two ballasts in the front and middle of the chassis.
Source: Lazzarini Design via Carscoop
