In base form, the Fiat 500 is a humble little car. The modest output from its 1.4 liter engine gives high fuel economy and cute acceleration. It may be enough to get from point A to point B with pizzazz, but there are still a few people who want more. That more is just around the corner as Fiat has announced official pricing of the hot-rod 500, the Abarth. For the first time on American soil, there will be a hyper Fiat with 160 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque on tap. Coupled with the car’s six speed manual transmission and light weight, and the 2012 should put a hurt on the likes of the Mini Cooper S, Honda Civic SI and recently released Hyundai Veloster Turbo. The ultimate blend of posh and aggression can be had for a base MSRP of $22,000.
The Abarth name has been with Fiat since the 1960s when Karl Abarth began racing the modified street cars. The current 500 has been available in Abarth form for a few years now in Europe, but the 2012 model year will be the first for the U.S. A special tuned suspension, larger brakes, bigger exhaust, integrated boost gauge and unique 16 inch wheels all come standard on the next Fiat. Also offered for the first few American cars is an event put on by Fiat’s U.S. partner, Chrysler LLC. At no extra charge will be the Abarth Driving Experience: a full day of race training and instruction from the Richard Petty Driving Experience. This way, owners can truly feel what its like to drive a tiny car extremely fast.
“The Fiat 500 Abarth feels like a double shot of espresso straight to your veins,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of FIAT Brand for North America, Chrysler Group LLC. “With its wicked attitude, it will reward adrenaline fans who no longer need to pay six figures to feel the rush of true Italian performance.”
Source: Fiat
