Fiat 500 to make racing debut at Aus GP

(GMM) The Australian grand prix in March will mark the competitive debut of the new 100 horse power Fiat 500 road car.

The award winning Italian car will be raced by famous locals for the traditional Celebrity Challenge at Melbourne's Albert Park.

"This will be the first time the new Fiat 500 has taken part in motor sport," David Stone, general manager for Fiat Cars in Australia, confirmed.

The twenty seven cars, powered by 1.4 liter engines, will be fitted out with roll cages, racing seats and improved brakes for their racing debut.

Fiat owns 83 per cent of Ferrari, winner of the constructors' and drivers' world championships in 2007.