Red is the colour of racing and red was also the colour of the area at this month's Bologna Motor Show which housed two flame red Fiat Stilo 'M. Schumacher' cars.

One had already starred at the recent Paris Motor Show while the other was a new show car called the 'Competizione' which stood out due to its red bodywork and white graphic signs.

The model is a limited edition named after the famous Ferrari driver who is a Formula 1 champion many times over and designed to appeal to customers who love a thrill.

The new version will be produced in about 3500 units and will offer three doors and aggressive, exclusive looks.

Examples include a Zender kit (front and rear bumpers, sideskirts and rear spoiler all in the same colour as the body), special 17" alloy wheels, a special Racing Red body colour (similar to the famous Ferrari Red) bearing the 'M. Schumacher' logo.

The car is available in powerful 170 bhp 2.4 20v and 140 bhp 1.9 Multijet 16v engine versions and inside the sporty vocation is confirmed by the addition of pedals and sill plate in a special sports design.

The Fiat Stilo 'M. Schumacher' will extend what is considered one of the most extensive ranges in the segment.

Customers can choose between three vehicles with different styles (3- or 5-door saloon and Multi Wagon), seven engines (95 bhp 1.4 16v; 103 bhp 1.6 16v; 133 bhp 1.8 16v; 170 bhp 2.4 20v; 100 bhp 1.9 JTD; 115 bhp 1.9 JTD - and 140 bhp 1.9 Multijet), five gearboxes (four manual and one Selespeed), four specifications (Actual, Active, Dynamic and Abarth), 13 body colours for each of which is available interior trim in different colours and fabrics

A range that allows everyone to find their very own Fiat Stilo M.Y. 04. Whether you want to opt for a high-spec, safe vehicle without lots of state-of-the-art features. Or whether you want to kit your car out with all the automotive extras currently available on the market.

Not to mention the fact that if you want to add a touch of personal taste to your Fiat Stilo M.Y. 04 (saloon and Multi Wagon), you could always choose from a long list of options and accessory range items.

The Fiat Stilo M.Y. 04 is altogether a car of European spirit because it can adapt to the more than 50 markets in which it is sold.

Photos: Carlo Ombello