Skip advert
Advertisement

Fiat 500 Abarth 'SS'

We catch the 500 Abarth SS track testing

Following the introduction of Fiat’s retro-design 500 at the recent Frankfurt Motor Show and the release of the 180bhp Grande Punto Abarth Concept SS at the same time, we reckon this 500 Abarth SS pictured here undergoing testing at the Nurburgring will get the same hot engine when it hits the road in 2009.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Exterior modifications over the ‘standard’ Fiat 500 Abarth will be additional air-intakes at the front to ensure cooling for engine and brakes plus a pair of huge exhaust pipes at the rear whereas the 135-bhp version will get only one. With such a potent engine in such a small car, the target Fiat is pointing at is nothing less than the MINI Cooper S!

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Why the wild V8-powered Land Rover Defender D7X-R has ‘flight mode’
Land Rover Defender Dakar D7X-R
News

Why the wild V8-powered Land Rover Defender D7X-R has ‘flight mode’

The Land Rover Defender will take on the world’s most gruelling off-road race in 2026. Here’s our first look at the car that will do it
25 Nov 2025
How a sub-200bhp runabout exposes the problem with today’s performance cars
695C Turismo
Opinion

How a sub-200bhp runabout exposes the problem with today’s performance cars

A shortage of long-term test cars flags up a wider problem, says Meaden
27 Nov 2025
Everyone loves the idea of a GT car, so why does nobody buy them?
Aston Martin Vanquish
Opinion

Everyone loves the idea of a GT car, so why does nobody buy them?

We all love a great GT, says Jethro. Trouble is, no-one wants to buy them
21 Nov 2025