Fiat 147 TSI: The transformation of the classic “box” into a powerful turbo car

The Fiat 147 is a milestone in the history of the Brazilian automobile industry. Launched in 1976, it was the first car manufactured by the Italian brand in Brazil and one of the first models to win over a loyal following, despite not being able to surpass the sales of an icon like the Volkswagen Beetle. However, the 147 left its mark and, to this day, proudly carries the title of the first car with a transverse front engine and the first alcohol-powered car in Brazil, the famous 147 “cachacinha”.

Today, the model is remembered by many as a classic, and its popularity among vintage car enthusiasts remains alive. However, what would become of one of the most beloved cars of the 1970s if it were “turbocharged” and modernized with modern-day technologies? The answer comes in the form of the Fiat 147 TSI, an adaptation by a passionate modification enthusiast. And yes, that's right: the traditional 147, which had modest 1,050 and 1,300cc engines, received an engine Volkswagen Up! TSI turbo, transforming it into a car with completely different performance.

The transformed classic

The original Fiat 147 was manufactured with 56 hp and 60 hp engines, depending on the version, and a torque of 7.8 kgfm to 10 kgfm. These numbers, which for the time were quite respectable, are not at all impressive compared to the 101 hp (gasoline) or 105 hp (ethanol) and 16.7 kgfm of torque offered by the Up!'s 1.0 turbo engine. The jump in power and torque is simply impressive: almost double the power and more than twice the torque of the original model.

The modification of the 147 was carried out by the workshop 147 Adaptations, specialized in customizing this model. The owner of a 147, after the first facelift, decided to give his car a new lease of life, installing the 1.0 turbo engine from the Up! with direct injection and a MQ200 five-speed manual gearbox, the same as the Up! TSI. The result was a 147 capable of offering modern performance with a nostalgic touch.

Technical challenges

Transforming such an iconic model into a turbocharged car was no easy task. One of the biggest challenges faced by those responsible for the modification was ensuring that the TSI engine was installed correctly and, more importantly, that the car was street legal. The bodywork was reinforced with a protective cage made of iron tubes, something common in racing cars. To maintain the aesthetics of the 147, this cage was installed inside the bodywork, being visible only in the trunk and in the engine compartment.

Furthermore, the system of suspension also needed adjustments. The rear transverse leaf spring was kept, but the front suspension, of the type McPherson, received parts from the Up! and Uno to improve impact absorption and support the new, heavier engine.

Innovations and modernizations

To support the Up!'s 1.0 turbo engine, other components were needed. The bottom of the block The engine was supported by a Beetle mount, while the sides received custom-made mounts, combining parts from the Up! and the Fiat 147 itself. To ensure the engine worked properly, the radiator was also customized, since the original one from the Up! would not fit in the 147's compartment.

Inside, the modernization was visible, with an instrument panel coming from the Up! itself, including on-board computer. This panel was installed on the original Fiat 147 hood and now offers data such as fuel consumption and time, something completely innovative for a car from the 1970s.

Challenges in the electrical part

As far as the electrical part is concerned, electronic modification was one of the most complicated. The Up! TSI engine requires a series of sensors, and the 147 needed a new electronic module to work properly. One of the biggest obstacles was getting the car to work without the need for sensors like the door or brake sensors, which were removed. The work to get the 147's electrical system to work without these sensors was hard, but the mechanics managed to overcome this challenge.

Despite having lost some comfort items, such as door and brake sensors, the 147 TSI gained new features, such as electric steering, electric windows, ABS brakes and, in the future, air conditioning.

Discreet appearance, respectable performance

On the outside, the Fiat 147 TSI looks almost identical to the original model, which makes the modification even more interesting. Those who don't know the car closely may even mistake the "little box" for an old model, but the alloy wheels with chrome and gold details, inspired by the BBS, are the only clue that this is not just any 147. This understated look hides a performance awesome.

The interior of the Fiat 147 TSI

The interior of the 147 TSI has been carefully adjusted to match the car's modernization proposal. Custom rugs with the signature “147 TSI” give a special touch to the environment. The benches in alcântara offer more comfort and sophistication, while the two-point seat belts, an element still present in the model, are one of the few pieces that remain unchanged.

Legalization and the process

Modifying the 147 was not just a matter of installing parts and making mechanical adjustments. The entire process had to be closely monitored to ensure that the car was legal for circulation. The 147 Adaptações workshop managed to register the new engine in the car's documents, which allows the Fiat 147 TSI to be used legally on the streets.

The impact on the classic car market

With the Fiat 147 TSI, a new era begins for classic car enthusiasts in Brazil. The transformation of this model, which was once one of the most popular in the country, into a modern and powerful car serves as inspiration for those looking to modify their own classic vehicles. However, anyone interested in making a similar modification should prepare financially, as the prices of classic models Fiat 147 originals already exceed the R$ 20 thousand, and a modification of this magnitude will likely require a considerable investment.

Final considerations

The Fiat 147 TSI is an example of how a passion for classic cars and the pursuit of performance can combine in surprising ways. By taking a classic model and inserting it into the modern car scene, with a turbo engine and advanced technologies, the owner of the Fiat 147 TSI managed to create a truly “creepy little box” that will draw sighs and glances wherever it goes.

If you, as a classic car enthusiast, have ever thought about restoring or modifying your own vehicle, know that there is a world of possibilities and innovations to transform even the simplest car into a respectable machine. The Fiat 147 TSI is proof that when the love for modification and by performance come together, the result can be spectacular.

Turn your passion for classic cars into reality and who knows, you might have your own Fiat 147 TSI on the streets in the near future.