The world’s largest traveling car show, the Hot Wheels Legends Tour, recently crowned its newest champion. Paweł Czarnecki’s rally-inspired, custom Fiat 126B earned the highest honor during the virtual Global Grand Finale on November 15. This triumph means the small but mighty Polish build will be immortalized. Specifically, the Fiat 126B Hot Wheels Legends Tour winner will be transformed into a 1:64 scale die-cast car. This highly anticipated miniature will be sold to collectors and fans worldwide.
The Mid-Engine Polish Rally Vision
The winning Fiat 126B began its journey by taking the top spot at the Poland Tour stop. Although Poland never hosted an official Group B rally event, the car was built with a specific vision. It was created to conquer the tight technical stages that might exist in the Carpathian Mountains. The car’s dramatically widened stance instantly captures attention. Functional aerodynamic features pay homage to the aggressive 1980s rally design.
A Testament to Authentic “Garage Spirit”
The Hot Wheels judging panel consistently seeks out the authentic “Garage Spirit” in every submission. Czarnecki’s Fiat perfectly embodies this mentality, reflecting extensive, hands-on fabrication. The build required more than 2,500 hours of hands-on wrenching labor. Furthermore, an additional 800 hours were spent on 3D printing custom components. This level of personal investment and creativity is what truly impressed the international judges.
Performance Specs and Rally-Ready Engineering
Though the Fiat 126B is modest in size, its heart is pure, performance-driven punch. The car is powered by a Fiat Uno 1.4 Turbo engine. This mid-engine placement improves weight distribution and handling characteristics. It delivers a serious output of 200 horsepower. This power is achieved with the help of a Nissan 200SX GT28 turbocharger. A built Fiat Punto GT gearbox manages the delivery of torque to the wheels.
Chassis Upgrades for Asphalt and Gravel
To handle the increase in power, the Fiat features extensive chassis modifications. A custom coilover suspension system was installed for superior ride control. The body was widened by a massive 18.5 inches, or 47 centimeters, for stability. Period-correct HTN Motorsport three-piece wheels complete the aggressive visual profile. The brakes were upgraded to Fiat Uno units for better stopping performance. A full roll cage also provides essential chassis rigidity and safety.
The Global Reach of the Legends Tour
The Hot Wheels Legends Tour continues to expand its international footprint every year. For 2025, the Tour traveled to 16 countries, including new stops in Peru and Turkey. Thousands of custom vehicles entered the competition from various global regions. Hot Wheels designers and local automotive experts evaluated all the submissions. This growth confirms the event’s status as the world’s largest traveling car show.
The Finalists and Judging Panel
The selection process featured three regional champions advancing to the Global Grand Finale. The runners-up included Clint DeVine’s striking Chevy S10 from Kansas City. Jesus Daniel Payan Gastelum’s VW Beetle pickup truck conversion from Mexico was the LATAM finalist. The panel of judges included notable figures like TV host Jay Leno and actor Michael Cimino. These judges were tasked with assessing creativity, authenticity, and garage spirit.
Summary of the Fiat 126B Hot Wheels Legends Tour Winner
Paweł Czarnecki’s highly customized Fiat 126B is the global champion of the 2025 Hot Wheels Legends Tour. This mid-engine, rally-inspired build from Poland represents the best of global garage creativity. The car features 200 horsepower from a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine, wide bodywork, and a custom coilover suspension. This highly detailed and performance-driven Fiat will now join the exclusive Hot Wheels Garage of Legends. Its transformation into a 1:64 scale die-cast model will share its unique story with millions of collectors.
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Source: Hot Wheels
