When Fiat officially launched the 500 in July, they announced that a Abarth version will also be unveiled this October at the Tokyo motor Show. The 500 Abarth will go on sale on the Europeans market starting 2008 and will also be available on the US market starting 2010.
The 500 Abarth will be a fast and affordable city cars offering giant-killing performance. Compared to the standard 500, the Abarth version will have a more muscular look featuring lower side skirts, inspired by the classic 595 Abarth. The Fiat logo will be replaced by the Abarth badge on both front and rear.
The front bumper will be specially designed and houses the main beam headlights set in a black surround, while the larger air intakes, adapted to cater for the new engine’s cooling requirements, will be enhanced with an exclusive Abarth design. The skirts, the wheel arch rims and black plastic underbody complete the fairing on the lower section, profiled to boost aerodynamic performance and extending as far as the tapered rear bumper.
2008 Fiat 500 Abarth
But most of the Abarth treatment will be related to it’s performance. The 500 Abarth will be powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine delivering around 150 hp. The 0 to 60 mph sprint will be made in about 8 seconds.
Inside the driver will also feel the Abarth touch. The charismatic figure of the scorpion will be found on one side of the dashboard, the instrument panel has a sporty design, with the same look for the steering wheel and gear stick, finished in black leather with red stitching.
The 500 Abarth will also get a SS version, more powerful and sporty. The 1.4 liter turbocharged will have an output of 180 hp, the same power as in it’s bigger brother Grande Punto. The 500 Abarth SS will compete with Mini Cooper S.
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