Fiat 500 Abarth

[Mitlov]

135 horsepower from a 1.4L turbo four.  It also sounds like it has some sort of limited-slip-differential, or perhaps something that's meant to approximate one:

Another interesting feature of the Fiat 500 Abarth is the fact that it adopts the new TTC (Torque Transfer Control) system, which improves the transfer of drive torque to the wheels, but, above all, ensures that the car behaves impeccably on bends, making it safer and more entertaining even with a sporty driving style. In other words, it is faithful to the phrase coined for the Abarths of the 1960s 'small but wicked'.

http://www.netcarshow.com/fiat/2009-500_abarth/

[safristi]

I'd prefer they STICK to EXHAUST systems.....

[aquadorhj]

Fiat 500 is so dang cute exterior AND interior, I wish I could carry one in my pocket.
Abarth version is stronger, should handle better, but I heard i ain't cheap... but then even regular 500 ain't too cheap( on par with MINI one or around there, right?)

Too bad it ain't coming to NA.
It may be relatively expensive for the size, but I would consider it against Mini if I were in the market.  (maybe in couple years.)
Didn't Top Gear's James May test one on the show and said Panda is better?

[Mitlov]

Everything I've heard suggested that the Fiat 500 is coming in the next couple years.  Do you have a link?

My toddler LOVES the Fiat 500, even more than the Mini.  Cuteness factor is off the charts.

[aquadorhj]

Hmm, I thought I read that it isn't coming to US from CAR or Top Gear magazine, but I can't find link now that you mention it..  Now everyone seems to be saying it's coming by 2010 though supposedly official line from FIAT is inconclusive.

Hope it becomes available.  it would look nice being littered all over street instead of those giant, spinner-sporting, view-blocking SUVs. 

[marineboy]

It appears to be a great car but the name ABARTH  sounds like someone throwing up in a stall...

[TopGun]

I'm not sure how they would bring it here.  I don't recall hearing any plans of FIAT coming over.

As BMW didn't badge the Mini as a BMW, I wouldn't badge this as an Alfa...I think it detract from what they should be aiming for with Alfa.

[Wolfe]

I'm not sure how they would bring it here. 

Weird idea (not mine.) They would sell them from Ferrari dealerships, super limited supply, marketed as fashion accessories rather than on their automotive merits.

I'm sure there is a sufficient supply of stupid rich people to sell a few hundred a year at a ridiculous markup.

[safristi]

It appears to be a great car but the name ABARTH  sounds like someone throwing up in a stall...

  you been lookin' in ma WINDAE agin"............


 In ma YOOF in Edinburgh Abarth go faster GOODIES  particularly  exhaust systems were to die for...I LIVED  !!!!   RALLYE ON BOYS...

[Serniter]

Here is an old link that says the Abarth version might make it to the US:

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/11/fiat-may-bring-500-mini-car-to-the-u-s/

[Mattesa]

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/report-fiat-500-to-launch-in-the-u-s-with-abarth-performance-m

So it IS headed stateside.

No mention of Canada?  It would certainly find an audience over here.  Although $19,000 US would probably translate to something like $28,000 CAD.

[johngenx]

No mention of Canada?  It would certainly find an audience over here.  Although $19,000 US would probably translate to something like $28,000 CAD.

Plus $2495 PDI and freight and $795 admin fee, makes it $31,290.

[toolatecrew]

I read that Chrysler is going to use their inhouse design team and chrysler sourced interior parts to try to contain the cost of the Canada spec Arbarth. The interior may not look quite as sporty as euro spec but not only will it keep cost down but will make it more appealing to North America and dring it more in line with Chrysler's design phiosopht. Spy shot below:

[inco]

I read that Chrysler is going to use their inhouse design team and chrysler sourced interior parts to try to contain the cost of the Canada spec Arbarth. The interior may not look quite as sporty as euro spec but not only will it keep cost down but will make it more appealing to North America and dring it more in line with Chrysler's design phiosopht. Spy shot below:

All they need to do for an encore is dig up Ricardo Montebaum and it's the 80's all over.

[Greg B.]

Spy shot below:

One of the best-looking Chrysler interiors ever. What is that -- color? Revolutionary! Who knew an interior could be something other than shades of gray or black?