| New Sporty Model | 2008 Geneva Motor Show | Fiat 500 Abarth |
The Fiat 500 and Abarth have a long history together that stretches back to the early days of the original Fiat 'bambino', and the latest collaboration has resulted in a 135bhp 500. Power comes from the
Punto's turbocharged 1.4-litre engine and should see the Abarth 500 go from 0-62mph in around 7.0 seconds.
A five-speed manual gearbox will be used along with Fiat's electronic Torque Transfer System to avoid wheel spin and torque steer in the lightweight 500. The suspension has been lowered to help handling and give a racier look, while unique Abarth alloy wheels will help distinguish the fastest 500.
A body kit, twin rear exhausts and bonnet bulge also mark out the Abarth 500, while the front bumper has a spoiler that Fiat says helps with high speed stability. There will also be Abarth's Scorpion stickers on the car just to make sure you don't mistake it for a lesser 500.
Sales are due to start in the UK this summer and prices are expected to begin at £14,000.
Alisdair Suttie - 18 Feb 2008