Last year at the Los Angeles Auto Show Fiat->ke1708 unveiled the American version of the Fiat 500 Abarth and this year the company made a comeback with the cabrio version. On the European market the model already enjoys a great success, and Fiat is now hopping it will do the same good impression on the U.S. market.

The model features the same design language as the coupe version, except of course its power-operated cloth top that can be operated at speeds up to 60 mph just be pressing a button.

"The new Fiat 500c Abarth delivers the wicked attitude and track-proven capabilities of the hatchback model, now with the rush of open-air Italian performance," said Tim Kuniskis, Head of FIAT Brand for North America — Chrysler Group LLC. "And with the push of a button our new turbocharged cabrio can unleash that added sense of freedom, while offering one of the most respected soundtracks of all-time, the rasp from its signature Abarth-tuned dual exhausts."

The new Fiat 500C Abarth will go on sale in the first-quarter of 2013.

UPDATE 12/06/12: Hold on to you pants, gentlemen. Fiat recently released a new commercial promoting the Abarth 500 Cabriolet. Suffice to say, it features supermodel Catrinel Menghia, a naughty little scorpion, and the 500C. Oh, and did we mention that Menghia went "topless" in the ad? Yep, click on the photo above to check it out!

2013 Fiat 500c Abarth

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 160
  • Torque: 170
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

Just like with all the previous Fiat 500 models, the new 500C Abarth retains the the clean and simple design language of the original Cinquecento, but it gives it a modern, elegant interpretation. When compared to the standard 500C, the Abarth version has received a more pronounced front fascia with a larger intake for better engine cooling, twin "nostrils" positioned on the front fascia to maximize airflow in and out of the two engine inter coolers.

For the rear Abarth added a cloth-top-mounted spoiler and a diffuser that will optimize airflow output. And, as a final element, the exhust system with its large concentric double-tip will further accentuate the exclusive look.

The model will sit on a new set of standard 16" wheel or optional 17" lightweight forged-aluminum wheels combined with performance brake system.

Interior

On the interior Abarth will add the same sporty feeling thanks to the addition of an Abarth-designed steering wheel with a thick rim, perforated leather and flat bottom. The instrument cluster features a 160 mph speedometer and it is being wrapped in Nero (black) leather with Rosso (red) accent stitching.

That sporty feeling is being accentuated by Abarth-designed aluminum pedals, a Nero leather shift knob with Rosso accent stitching and of course Abarth erformance seats.

Engine

Just like with the coupe version, the new 500C Abarth is being powered by a 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine that delivers a total of 160 HP and a peak torque of 170 ft.-lb. In order to deliver the extra power, the engine has been updated with an Abarth-designed fresh-air intake system with high-flow air filter and smooth-flowing plumbing for maximum power.

The engine is mated to a track-proven C510 five-speed manual transmission and will sprint the car from0 to 60 mph in the low 7 second range.

Prices

The new Fiat 500C Abarth will go on sale in the first-quarter of 2013. Prices will be announced at a later date.

Competition

On the US market the new Fiat 500C Abarth will have to face models like Mini Roadster JCW. It is being offered with a 1.6 liter four-cylinder engine equipped with TwinPower Turbo technology delivering a total of 211 HP at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 192 lb-ft at 1,850 rpm.