It was indeed accused of being a Fiat, as it had the same engine as the Fiat 124 sport Coupe though with different carburation.  However, my old 124 Sport was the quickest car I have owned and it was no disgrace to use such an engine in the Beta. Sadly the my early Beta Spyder was rust prone and needed remedial work year on year which detracted from the better handling compared with the Fiat. JDN