Porsche-Inspired Hatchback Revived After 10 Years of Darkness

Porsche Collaborates with Italdesign on Engine and Body Design.

SEAT, the Spanish car manufacturer, is shifting its focus from typical car production to a new position within its parent corporation, the Volkswagen Group. However, in the 1980s, SEAT was producing remarkably impressive cars. The Ibiza serves as a prime illustration, with its design by Giorgetto Giugiaro’s Italdesign and its engine developed in collaboration with Porsche. This particular model was abandoned in a dilapidated barn in Hungary for a minimum of 10 years. Despite this, with a little bit of effort, it was able to regain its functionality.

According to Robery Petyko, the owner of the popular Old Skull Garage YouTube channel, he was informed by a friend about a 1991 Ibiza that had been hidden away for over two decades. The car was located in a small town in Hungary and had belonged to a teacher who primarily used it for short trips around the area. Petyko stated, “When she upgraded to a new vehicle, her friends allowed her to store the old SEAT in their barn.” The hatchback had remained untouched until Petyko featured it in one of his videos, which marked its first time leaving the barn in years.

In 1984, the initial generation of the Ibiza was introduced, preceding the acquisition of SEAT by VW in 1986. The renowned designer Giugiaro drew inspiration from his earlier proposal for the second generation of the VW Golf when creating the design for the Ibiza. The car’s pleasing appearance featured a spacious greenhouse that allowed ample natural light to flood into the interior. Customers had the option of choosing between three- or five-door models.

Porsche played a crucial role in the development of the 1.2-, 1.5-, and 1.7-liter four-cylinder engines found in the Ibiza. In order to showcase their partnership with the renowned German brand, SEAT made a deal to include a royalty payment for the prominent placement of “System Porsche” on the cylinder head.

The SEAT Ibiza proved to be a monumental triumph for the brand, with 1,342,001 units sold between 1984 and 1993. Later, a Chinese car manufacturer released their own version for the local market from 1999 to 2008.

In this clip, the featured vehicle is equipped with a 1.5-liter motor. Upon inspecting the spark plugs and oil, Robert proceeds to pour gasoline into the carburetor in order to test the engine’s functionality. It fires up instantly, but shuts off shortly after idling. Initially, the fuel pump is unresponsive, but Petyko eventually manages to get it working.

According to Petyko, the son of the previous owner brought the Ibiza back to its home after the production of this video. The goal is to restore the car’s ability to be driven on the road once again. With vintage cars becoming increasingly scarce, it brings us joy to know that one classic beauty will soon be back in the spotlight.

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