I first saw the Abarth 500 at the Geneva motorshow last year. Even back then it stood proud, handsome and dominating in stark contrast to its minature dimensions. I was smitten back then and have enjoyed the presence of the uber cool 500’s on our roads of late – especially as I see it as a personal battle against the irritating Mini.
After having read the great Car article yesterday as they took a new Abarth 500 across the alps, I had to go see one again. After all, I need a train station car and what better than this?
Unfortunately, I didn’t get to see the car in person (I’m a week early) but my interest is peaked. I’ve been pouring over the (incredibly stylish) A4 teaser they gave me, that comes together with pictures of the Assetto Corse package – a track day pack that comes with special wheels, lowered springs, uprated discs and pads, ecu flash that takes power from 135bhp to 160bhp and some other tasty add-ons. Standard car is £13,600 and the package costs another £2,500.
This is a very, very cool car.
I agree it is a very cool car and we are getting one of the first in March!
Exactly like the one in the brochure, pearlescent white with the upgraded 17″ 5 petal wheels, red leather, electric “Skydome” sunroof/targa.
One thing though, the 160hp kit is the Esseesse (SS) kit for road cars. The Assetto Corse is a full-on, non-road legal race car with nearer 200hp.
Now that’s why google images brings up a race car whenever I searched for “Assetto Corse”
Just so you know, I’ve had Fiat ring me at least 8 times since I went down there last week – I get the impression they’re looking for some customers so make sure you get some free upgrades.
When we ordered ours, we could only identify one definite Abarth dealer! Unfortunately they are trying to brand themselves as a “non-discount” premium brand so along with the GT-R we will be buying another car with no discount in the worst recession for a couple of generations!
But yes, we shall pushing hard for a free set of Abarth mats!