Fiat gets racy in America with the 2012 500 Abarth 08/02/2011
Fiat will soon be launching a new edition to its American 500 family. The 500 and 500c (convertible) are currently available, and soon the Fiat 500 Abarth will make its debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show this November. Top Speed reports that the new car will be available for sale in the first half of 2012, one year earlier than planned. Its modestly superior engine sets it apart from the 500 and places it on the playing field with the Volkswagen GTi and the Mini Cooper S.
The Abarth has been cruising around Europe since its unveiling at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show, and the existing vehicles are equipped with a 135-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, Motor Trend reports. This gives the Abarth an edge over the standard 500, which only has 100-hp but gets an average 33 miles per gallon with a manual transmission.
The standard 500 starts at around $15,500, so expect the Abarth to cost a bit more. With an upgraded engine, the three-door hatchback offers drivers a racing experience with a manageable amount of power. The new car breaks 60 miles per hour in just under eight seconds, and the engine roars like a lion, even though the car looks like more of a cub.