Test drive Fiat 500 Abarth: pure poison

The Fiat power supply is a legend among connoisseurs of Italian motorsport, so their hearts were hardened by a sad emptiness in the years of his absence. Now the "scorpion" is back, bringing light back into the souls of its sworn fans. In this case, we decided to "chase" one of the hottest modifications of the 500 model.

For many years, Abarth, the racing brand of the recent past, has not been in deep hibernation. Recently, however, the “poisonous scorpion” has returned to the scene with renewed vigor and a renewed desire to consume its sting. The show of a few old-timers from the factory collection of Abarth at the opening of a new auto repair shop in Turin-Mirafiori clearly seemed insufficient to the Italians, who decided to send a specially selected dealer network and two modern sports models. At the same time, the 160 hp Grande Punto Abarth and the modified 500 version (135 hp) are also a tribute to the tradition started by Carlo (Karl) Abarth. November 15, 2008 this famous dreamer would have turned 100 years old.

Time Machine

Powered by a 1,4-liter turbo engine, the sharpened crumb evokes a time machine and bears a strong resemblance to the 1000 TC, thousands of which were produced between 1961-1971. At that time, its power was 60 horsepower, but later increased to 112. Given the low weight of the car (600 kilograms), these figures were enough to turn it into a small rocket on wheels. From the checkered red and white roof to the massive bumpers and the predatory radiator grille, its distinctive features are now reinterpreted for the new era. Behind the front grille are the air vents leading to the water radiator, the two intercooler openings, and the air inlet to the brakes. On the short front cover we find a small air intake, under which the turbocharger is located. The silver gray lacquer and red frames on the side mirrors also have an authentic look. Finally, racing ribbons, colorful emblems and daring inscriptions with the name of the legendary Austrian motorcyclist and entrepreneur stand out on the body, as well as on the inside.

The only thing missing is an open back cover, which was a must in the best times for the brand - the 60s. In fact, its elimination is a logical decision by car designers, since the four-cylinder engine is no longer located at the rear, as it was in the 1000 TC (with a platform borrowed from the Fiat 600). According to Leo Aumüller, who takes care of several Abarth-prepared cars in his own garage, the open engine had access to more cooling air. In addition, he claims that the angle of the protruding hood has a positive effect on the overall aerodynamics of the body. In the new version, on the contrary, the roof spoiler is responsible for increased compression force and less air resistance. Although he made a more efficient current decision, Mr. Aumüller remained fascinated by the unusual sight of the prototype moving with the lid "forgotten" open.

Scorpio attacks

We fire up the engine to see how the resurrected Abarth has recreated its modern virtues. The ignition and engine sound evoke the same excited state that previous models of the brand were well aware of. The little athlete dials faster than his sound would suggest as the two ends of the exhaust drown out the raucous roar of the engine. In the middle speed range, the 16-valve engine gains enough power and willingly continues to turn, following the instructions of a lucky driver behind the wheel. At the touch of a button on the center console, which is highlighted by the meaningful Sport inscription, the drive briefly develops a maximum thrust of 206 Nm. The gear lever has excellent controllability, and the gearbox itself works exactly - unfortunately, there are only five gears, the last of which is quite “long”.

The front wheels of the ball “dwarf” brutally touch the asphalt, so for safety reasons, an electronic differential lock is installed to distribute the optimal torque. The maximum speed of the Abarth 500 is 205 km / h, and here it was not without safety systems - ASR traction control, ABS anti-lock braking system and emergency braking system. 16-inch wheels and 195-mm tires transfer the power of the turbo engine to the asphalt, accelerating to 100 km / h in eight seconds. Red-painted units and larger brake discs stop a 1100-pound "bullet" for about 40 meters. On the other hand, the hard suspension and too light steering look not so impressive.

Even if the enthusiast is driving tall, the elongated sports front seats are ready to offer him a comfortable seat. In general, there is enough space in the front row, but in the back, the knees will feel pinched and you will have to pull your head in a bit. The flattened steering wheel provides a comfortable grip. Aluminum pedals and a leather-wrapped shifter also add to the racing feel. The portable navigation system, integrated into the on-board electronics, has an interesting option - its database includes the most famous European race tracks. For example, anyone who tours Hockenheim can analyze their performances in detail. We, of course, took advantage of this little pleasure and immediately rushed for even more power. If you find these characteristics unsatisfactory, you can look at the catalog of the version equipped with 160 horsepower or the version of the Abarth SS Assetto Corsa. The latter will be released in only 49 copies weighing 930 kilograms and a monstrous power of 200 horsepower.

text: Eberhard Kitler

a photo: Ahim Hartman

Evaluation

Fiat 500 Abarth 1.4 T-Jet

Good dynamic performance, sporty handling, a lot of space in front, a well-thought-out navigation system, seven airbags. Negatives include tiny trunk, limited rear knee and headroom, synthetic steering feel, lack of seat lateral support, hard to read turbocharger pressure and shift gauges, and a five-speed transmission.

technical details

Fiat 500 Abarth 1.4 T-Jet
Working volume	-
Power	99 kW (135 hp)
Maximum torque	-
Acceleration 0-100 km / h	8 with
Braking distances at a speed of 100 km / h	40 m.
full speed	205 km / h
Average consumption fuel in the test	8,8 l / 100 km
Base Price	-