Photo Gallery, Review & Specifications |
2012 Fiat 500 Abarth

Faithful to the "small but wicked" saying coined for Karl Abarth's cars in the 1960s, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth arrives to America with the racing traditions that have made it a success on European roadways and racetracks - world-class performance and precision, purposeful and aggressive styling, high power-to-weight ratio and limited-production volume. (continued below)
2012 500 Abarth Photo Gallery |
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Fiat 500 Abarth: "Small but Wicked"
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Source: Fiat | Published: Wed Nov 16, 2011 |
(continued from above)
Building on the excitement of the new 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento), the new
Fiat 500 Abarth is designed for track-day enthusiasts and driving purists who
want the ultimate high-performance small car with the pedigree of an exclusive
Italian exotic.
With its all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine, Abarth-tuned suspension and
brake systems, race-inspired design, and technology features not traditionally
included on a small car, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth unleashes the brand's
legendary performance heritage to American streets.
Aggressive, Functional Styling
The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth takes the city-friendly proportions and iconic
Cinquecento cues of the new Fiat 500 hatchback model further, with a stylistic
approach to exterior aerodynamics and high-performance functionality.
To improve aerodynamics - while creating the necessary engine compartment space
for the all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine - the Fiat 500 Abarth's front
fascia is more pronounced and pushed 2.7 inches (69 mm) ahead of its signature
"whiskers and logo" face, recalling the Abarth stylistic treatments from vintage
850 TC and 1000 TC models.
Continuing the Fiat 500 Abarth's unique front aerodynamic design treatment, the
signature "Abarth" shield floats on a finned surface that serves as an
additional air intake. Below, the "triptych" of air intakes consists of three
inlets with broader openings than the Fiat 500. For a more aggressive look, a
blacked-out fascia accent integrates projector-beam fog lamps and helps direct
air for engine cooling. Twin "nostrils" are precisely positioned on the front
fascia to maximize airflow in and out of the two engine intercoolers (both
intercoolers are visible through the "nostril" inlets).
From the rear, a large liftgate-mounted spoiler extends the roofline of the Fiat
500 Abarth and improves the vehicle's aerodynamic behavior by creating
additional down force. Below, the two-piece Abarth-styled rear fascia
accentuates the road-holding stance of this high-performance 500 and optimizes
airflow output with its black-accented rear diffuser. In addition, symmetric,
twin exhaust cutouts deliver a powerful look, while large concentric "double
tip" exhausts provide a tuned sound and Abarth-exclusive look.
For maximum customization, the Abarth-designed 17-inch forged-aluminum wheels
are available in Hyper Black or optional Bianco paint.
Fiat 500 Abarth: Review (2/2)
Specifications |
Key: AT - automatic transmission, MT - manual transmission, F/R/AWD - front/rear/all wheel drive |
Powertrain |
Type |
I4, Turbocharged |
Displacement |
83 cu in (1368 cc) |
Power |
160 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Torque |
170 lb-ft @ 2500-4000 rpm |
Redline |
6500 rpm |
Driveline |
Front Wheel Drive |
Transmission |
5 Speed Manual |
Brakes & Tires |
Brakes Front - Rear |
Ventilated Discs - Solid Discs |
Tire Size Front - Rear |
195/45 R16 (Std.) |
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205/40 R17 (Opt.) |
Exterior Dimensions & Weight |
Length |
144.4 in |
Width |
64.1 in |
Height |
58.7 in |
Curb Weight |
2533 lbs |
Performance |
0-60 mph |
n/a |
1/4 Mile |
n/a |
60-0 Braking |
n/a |
Top Speed |
n/a |
Fuel Economy |
EPA Fuel Mileage - City/Highway |
n/a |
Origin & Price |
Manufacturer's Origin |
Italy |
Where Built |
Toluca, Mexico |
Base Retail Price (MSRP) |
n/a |