Fiat regarded Autobianchi as its experimental wing, and in the mid-1960s decided that Autobianchi should pioneer new models to replace its aged fleet of rear-engined small cars. The A112 was a deliberate attempt to stem the flood of cars like the Mini, and Dante Giacosa developed the X1/2 project as the A112 to test out principles later used on the X1/4 project (Fiat 127). The Autobianchi A112 was launched at the 1969 Salon di Torino, with a 903cc 44hp engine later upgraded to the 47bhp version given to the Fiat 127. A Series II model was launched in 1973 with only minor restyling, but there were now 'Elegant' versions at a higher price as well as a 982cc Abarth model. Series III models from 1975 had vents in the rear pillar, different bumpers, revised interiors and the Abarth was given a 1,050cc engine. From 1977 to 1979 the Series IV sold with a slightly enlarged 965cc engine to compensate for emissions regulations. Further revisions to the body were given on the Series V from 1979-82 and these were now marketed as 'Junior' or 'Elite', the Junior reverting to the 903cc unit whilst the Elite enjoyed the 965cc engine with 5-speed gearbox. A Series VI model with more plastic restyling was sold from 1982-84, and a Series VII from 1984-85. The Series VIII model was sold until production ended in 1986 because the Lancia Y10 not only took the place of the A112, it also took its factory.