Abarth?s small but deadly 500 now in SA

ABARTH?S first interpretation of the 500 blasts onto the scene in Southern Africa this year. The new 500 Abarth was developed by Abarth engineers in the spirit of the legendary 500s of the late 1950s and 1960s ? an era that coined the phrase ?small but deadly?.

Combining technology, performance and safety, the 500 Abarth draws on the brand?s heritage and experience in the racing arena.

The new 500 possesses all the dynamic performance of a car destined for the racetrack. Concealed beneath the bonnet is a 1.4-litre 16-valve turbocharged petrol engine that delivers a maximum power output of 99kW at 5500rpm and a maximum torque peak of 206Nm at 3000rpm in ?Sport? mode. The punchy power unit ensures thrilling performance while also making the 500 Abarth extremely satisfying and comfortable to drive even during day-to-day use.
The 500 Abarth wears the traditional scorpion insignia with pride. Dressed to kill, the 500 Abarth?s form contributes significantly to the car?s performance. Engineers devoted particular attention to the aerodynamics and function of certain elements. For example, the rear view of the 500 Abarth is typified by the presence of a special bumper, aerodynamic extractor, twin exhaust terminal and tailgate spoiler that give it a sporting look but also excellent aerodynamic performance.

The front end makes a specific statement that the 500 is an out-and-out GT: the three-part pattern formed by the air intakes comprises a central intake that is larger than on the normal 500, and an upper slot (above the number plates) that is also wider. The two symmetrical ?nostrils? on either side of the bumpers correspond exactly to the position of two corresponding intercoolers that can be seen through the openings and are there to ensure air is able to flow in and out. Completing the look are 16? alloys available as standard fitment or 17? alloy wheels available as an optional extra.

The 500 Abarth?s interior offers further clues to its racing pedigree thanks to unique Abarth instrumentation and an analogue pressure gauge used to measure the turbo pressure. The main gauge, with sporting graphics, is lipped on top to offer further protection against glare while the three-spoke steering wheel incorporates moulded grips for the thumbs and is levelled off at the base to ensure increased passenger room and space for adjustment.

For stable and highly effective braking, the 500 Abarth has disc brakes all round and the system is supplemented by ABS anti-lock braking. In order for drivers to maximise the power of the brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA) are both standard fitments.

The 500 Abarth comes with a high level of passive safety equipment. There are seven airbags as standard, two dual-stage front bags, two window bags, two side bags and unusually for this size of car, a driver?s knee bag.

Would-be customers will be impressed by the wide array of standard features on offer, which include a sporty thick-rimmed flat-bottomed, leather steering wheel, electric front windows and door mirrors, air conditioning, a height adjustable driver?s seat and steering wheel and a radio/CD/MP3 player with steering wheel controls. The innovative and unique Blue&Me hands-free communication system is also standard.

The 500 Abarth will also be available in cabriolet form.