By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com
With the Fiat 500 Abarth’s high performance DNA intact, the new 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth is engineered with the same track proven attributes that have made the hatchback model a success on European and North American roadways and racetracks.
With just the push of a button, the Fiat 500c Abarth’s power operated cloth top retracts up to the rear spoiler during speeds up to a best-in-class 60 mph. Press the roof button again, and the roof will neatly fold all the way open and tuck neatly behind the rear head restraints.
In addition to its cleverly designed multi-position power-retractable cloth top, the Fiat 500c Abarth’s fully stamped body side silhouette retains the iconic Cinquecento form while delivering added structural strength.
Under the hood, the new 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth features the track-proven 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine for 160 horsepower, up to 170 ft.-lb. of torque and 0-to-60 mph performance in the low 7 second range.
Fiat 500c Abarth features a standard-equipped Sport mode calibration for more engaging driving. Should the driver select Sport mode on the instrument panel, the Abarth-tuned PCM unleashes the full power of the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo with linear throttle response and a more performance-weighted steering feel.
Designed to handle the increased torque loads, the Fiat 500c Abarth’s C510 transmission includes an intermediate shaft with equal length half shafts to mitigate torque steer. The 500c Abarth features 23 percent larger half shafts for increased strength and to reduce torsional stress in the driveline during performance driving on the road or track.
Fiat 500c Abarth features a high-performance brake system with semi-metallic brake linings at all four corners, and larger 11.1-inch ventilated rotors for greater stopping power. Both front and rear brake calipers are lacquered in Rosso paint for an athletic look. An Abarth-tuned electronic stability control system features a three-mode calibration to maximize the handling capabilities on and off the track. When ESC is selected from On to Partial Off or Full Off on the instrument panel, the 500c Abarth’s innovative torque transfer control system maximizes throttle performance during on-throttle cornering.
The aggressive styling of the Fiat 500c Abarth embodies the Abarth brand tradition in full, to improve aerodynamics and the necessary engine compartment space for the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine; the Fiat 500c Abarth’s features a more pronounced front fascia. For additional air intake, the signature Abarth shield floats on a finned surface and a larger intake below consists of three inlets with broader openings. For a more aggressive look, twin nostrils are precisely positioned on the front fascia to maximize airflow in and out of the two engine intercoolers.
From the rear, an Abarth-designed cloth-top-mounted spoiler extends the roofline and improves the vehicle’s aerodynamic behavior by creating additional downforce. Below, the two-piece Abarth-styled rear fascia accentuates the road-holding stance and optimizes airflow output with its rear diffuser. In addition large concentric double-tip exhausts provide an exclusive Abarth-tuned sound and look.
The interior design theme is an artistic blend of clean lines and functional performance appointments. An Abarth-designed steering wheel features a thick rim, perforated leather and flat bottom to provide the look, feel and increased roominess desired during at-the-limit driving. A large concentric instrument cluster with 160-mph speedometer, tachometer and trip computer sits behind the steering wheel, and features a leather-wrapped cluster brow wrapped in Nero leather with Rosso accent stitching. To the left, an analog turbo-boost gauge with integrated LED shift light in the center that illuminates to an instant before redline to optimize gear changes. Below the instrument panel, Abarth-designed aluminum pedal covers feature Nero rubber trim for a decidedly racing look, while the Nero leather shift knob with Rosso accent stitching provides a precise feel of the shifter. With the available TomTom navigation with BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology, the Fiat 500c Abarth integrates an innovative 4.3-inch TomTom portable navigation device that docks on top of the instrument panel. With its large touchscreen, simple map displays with available real-time traffic, weather and points of interest, TomTom Navigation with BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology is intuitive for the driver to use. And with its direct integration into the Fiat 500 Abarth’s interior system, the driver is able to use steering-wheel-mounted controls to make operation even easier.
The Fiat 500c Abarth Cabrio is a fun car, is really fast and quite nimble, it sounds like a sports car thanks to the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine and the twin exhaust pipes. The Abarth has the right mix of size and speed, either for a day at the beach or if you prefer a fun day at the race track.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $26,000.00, the one I drove included the Customer Preferred Package 25X and the Performance Leather-Trimmed High-Back Bucket Seats, and it came in at $31,100.00 including destination charge. The EPA fuel economy estimates 28 MPG City and 34 MPG Highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
