The motorcycle powered car is popping up all over. The latest version with plans for an actual production run of 500 is this Fiat 500 converted to Ducati power, the F500. Being built in the U.K. by Hartham, the first ones will run Ducati 996 power though there will be the option of 999R power and eventually they will also offer the fitting of a ‘World Superbike’-specification Ducati 999R engine.

From Italiaspeed:

The F500 maintains the original shape of the Fiat 500 and - as mentioned earlier - it replaces the engine with the thunderous Ducati 999 Corse unit which delivers 200 bhp to the rear wheels; over ten times more power than the original 500, and a sequential six speed gearbox. Other key features include a carbonfibre composite chassis and Brembo disc brakes, meaning that this evolution of the 500 has all the trademarks of a true racing thoroughbred - right down to its Sabelt six point racing harnesses. All of this combines to deliver a power to weight and driving experience that belies its retro exterior. The F500 is truly a miniature supercar in every sense.

Hartham seems quite capable of carrying this off so it will be very interesting to see how it turns out. They anticipate a completed car in September and I’ll be eager to see the result.

via motoblog.it

see also: motorcycle engine cars