21.10.2004 Fiat Brazil will present a limited-edition Stilo M.Schumacher when the 2004 Salão de São Paulo, the South American country's leading motor show, opens its doors to the public today

Fiat Brazil will present a limited-edition Stilo M.Schumacher when the 2004 Salão de São Paulo, the South American country's leading bi-annual motor show, opens its doors to the public today.

Like the European M.Schumacher edition, previewed at the Italian Grand Prix, and officially unveiled last month at the Paris Mondial de l'Automobile, the Brazilian version will be painted the same bright 'Ferrari' red, feature Michael Schumacher's signature, and the eye-catching 17-in 'scorpion' shaped wheels.

However, Brazil will commemorate the German's latest Formula One world title, as well as Ferrari's fifth consecutive constructor's crown, with a five door version of the 'C-segment' Stilo, the local market's popular choice.

The South American Fiat Stilo, built locally, forgoes the European '2004' 5-door model specification changes, retaining as it does, the fog lights mounted either side of the registration plate along with the clear coloured reverse light lenses.

The Stilo M.Schumacher, which will be limited to just 500 units, will feature colour-coded red bumpers, side mouldings, mirrors, and door rubbing strips. A chrome-trimmed front grille completes the visual changes that aim to give this limited-edition model a sporty look.

The Ferrari star's signature will feature externally on the tailgate, just below the model designation, and at the rear of the sill covers. Meanwhile, inside the car an individually number plaque is mounted on the dashboard.

The interior gets an upgrade: plush leather seats and 'sporty' steering wheel, are joined by 'racing'-style alumiunium pedals, footrest, handbrake lever grip, and door step protection plates. The door handles and dashboard mounted air vents are painted silver to complete the effect.

Standard equipment includes a 'Sky Window', Bluetooth, CD/MP3 player and dual-zone air conditioning. Power comes from Fiat's 1.8-litre 16v petrol engine.

by Iinuma Wesley in Brazil ( additional material: Warley Zamboni, Autocar Brazil )