Less than half a year ago, Gianinni, Italian preparer known for the modified Fiat 500s in the 60s, a true competitor of Abarth, returned in a big way. The Giannini 350 GP Anniversario captured our attention, and no wonder. From small and charming city dweller, it became a 350 hp “monster”, with engine and rear-wheel drive, courtesy of the powertrain of the Alfa Romeo 4C.
And, luckily, it wasn't an isolated act. Giannini has just unveiled the 350 GP4, where the epithet of “monster” seems even more fitting, as by gaining all-wheel drive, it ends up recalling the legendary Group B.
Similar but couldn't be more different
The Giannini 350 GP4, compared to the 350 GP, gains all-wheel drive, but the changes are not limited to an additional drive axle. In reality, despite the visual similarities, underneath the garments are profoundly distinct machines.
If the 350 GP was all behind, the 350 GP4 puts the engine back in front — take note of the air intakes in the hood, absent from the 350 GP. In theory, it will be possible to place four passengers in the cabin, although the images reveal a substantial roll-bar behind the front seats. You can also see substantial aerodynamic changes at the front and rear, the presence of more items in carbon fiber and Plexiglass windows to save weight.
It seems to be ready to tackle any type of section in a rally event — the evocation of Group B, even though it is not deliberate, is the first thing that stands out, even for the graphics on the side that seem to have come directly from the 80s.
Besides, not much more is known. The Alfa Romeo 4C's engine doesn't even maintain — will it fit on the 500's small front? — despite the potency remaining unchanged. Giannini is currently testing their new machine, so we'll have to wait a little longer to find out about its specs.
Don't expect affordable value
We don't know what the cost of the Giannini 350 GP4 is, but the amount is likely to be high. Each of the 100 units to be produced for the 350 GP Anniversario will cost 150 thousand euros, so it is to be expected, equally, amounts in these molds for the 350 GP4.