Abarth 500 (09 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
The 500 has been a big success for Fiat, so a fiery version of the model from Abarth - a separate high-performance brand within Fiat - is no surprise. Wearing the distinctive scorpion badges, the Abarth 500 has been significantly re-engineered and is only available through the small network of Abarth dealerships. Thanks to a peppy turbocharged 1.4-litre engine, it performs as well as the striking looks suggest. Sharp steering and minimal roll in corners make it hugely fun to drive too. For those who want even more performance, there's an Esseesse version which increases engine power and adds stiffer suspension and better brakes.
4.5 out of 5

Other Abarth reviews

2.5 out of 5

Buying new

Perhaps the biggest problem when buying new will be finding an Abarth outlet nearby - there's only a handful of dealers in the UK. Don't expect a discount either. Abarth is confident it will be able to sell every 500 it can bring to the UK, despite it being more expensive to buy than the larger and more powerful Abarth Grande Punto.

2.5 out of 5

Buying used

Abarth 500 models will be relatively rare so tracking one down will be the main issue. Try Fiat or Abarth dealers for good quality used models. Top money is paid for the standard Fiat 500, so expect a similar story for this more hardcore relative. The Esseesse conversion can be carried to standard Abarth 500 models within 12 months or 12,500 miles of being registered. It's a sizable premium if you're buying a car less than a year old and paying your nearest Abarth specialist to carry out the upgrade. Best to look out for a used madel with the pack already added.

  • Boot/Load Space Abarth 500 (09 on)
  • Interior Abarth 500 (09 on)

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See 56 used Abarth 500s for sale, starting at £9,890

3.5 out of 5

Selling

There should be a good deal of demand among enthusiasts, making selling a used Abarth 500 relatively easy. The Esseesse versions will command a healthy premium.