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Abarth launches £29k 500

  • Top-level Abarth faster and better equipped than Esseesse
  • Ferrari-inspired extras but with a Ferrari-inspired price
  • Limited to a run of 152, priced at £29,600

Written by Parkers Published: 3 August 2010 Updated: 1 February 2017

Abarth has unveiled details of a limited edition 500 called the 695 Tributo Ferrari but sadly the all-singing, all-dancing special has a Ferrari-inspired price.  

Only 152 cars will be available by special order but the sting in the tail is clearly its cost. At approximately £11k more than the Esseesse, the Abarth 695 comes with a Ferrari-inspired livery with carbon wing mirrors, a dual-mode exhaust, sports seats, front air intakes for brake cooling and grey 17-inch alloy wheels.  

It is powered by a 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine that delivers 180bhp with 250Nm of torque compared with the 161bhp and 230Nm delivered by the 'standard' Esseesse version.

The 695 is capable of 0-60mph in 7 seconds and it has a top speed of 140mph. It is still relatively fuel efficient with an official average consumption of 43.3mpg.

Standard equipment includes five airbags, electronic stability control, torque transfer control (for reducing torque steer), climate control, power steering and xenon headlights. Each Abarth is also equipped with the 'Blue&Me' hands-free infotainment system, which allows the driver to make and receive calls and texts via Bluetooth, access the satellite navigation system and play music. 

It comes with paddleshift transmission allowing for acceleration to 60 in seven seconds and a top speed of 140mph; considerably faster than the original 1960's version which would only reach 87mph. Abarth have also fitted a 'Sport' button which puts the gearbox, engine and steering into a more aggressive and responsive mode.