Abarth was founded in 1952 as a “one-stop-shop” for Fiat performance gear. What does that have to do with the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth? Nothing. Seriously. In 1971 Abarth was purchased by Fiat, by the 1990s the “brand” had deteriorated to a trim level on questionable hatchbacks and by 2000 it was “dead trim walking.” In 2007 Fiat decided they needed a performance brand once again and resurrected Abarth with the inexplicably named “Fiat Grande Punto Abarth” and (more importantly) a complete line of clothing and accessories. Despite the apparent soft start for the brand in the Euro-zone, Fiat tells us they held nothing back for the launch of Abarth in North America. Our own tame racing driver Jack took the Abarth for a spin on the track back in March but this time we’re pitting Italy’s hot hatch against a bigger challenge: the daily commute.
Tagged as 500, 500 Abarth, Abarth, Alex L. Dykes, Chrysler, dual exhaust tips, euro model, euro zone, Fiat, Fiat 500, fiat abarth, Hatchbacks, Hot Hatch, New Cars, performance brand, performance model, punto abarth, Review, SRT, YouTube
Recent Comments
Doug DeMuro - That is definitely an article for a later date. Although it was long before my tenure, and I am a secret (now not so secret) Boxster lover. Thanks...
-Nate - Mr. Schmitt ; Don’t _ever_ stop writing nor allow your self to be muzzled ! . I always enjoy reading your columns even when about newer...
Doug DeMuro - Thanks for the kind words and the birthday wishes!
Doug DeMuro - 500E and 850CSi might be two cars we ALL wish we had bought in 20 years when we see them on the greens at Amelia and Pebble. Thanks for the birthday...
Doug DeMuro - Thanks for the birthday wishes. Totally love the R34 GT-R by the way – just taking a shot at all those who think cars are only cool if...
Doug DeMuro - Hah! Agree on your first point. No comment on your second, though I think a lot of West Germans feel the same way.
Doug DeMuro - Thanks!!
Doug DeMuro - Sadly as the displays at the museum rotate, these cars are no longer there (or at least they weren’t as of my last visit in 12/2012)....
Doug DeMuro - Yeah – the 300hp must’ve been wild. As you mention, we’re talking 1990… the M3 had 215hp! Can’t imagine meeting an RS2...
WaftableTorque - Thank you, the thought has crossed my mind. I’m a financial planner by trade, but that’s not where my passion is. I’m only...