A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.5
Comfort & Interior
3.8
Running Costs
3.2
Practicality
3.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a small car that packs a serious punch? The Abarth 500 might be exactly what you’re after. This pocket rocket transforms the humble Fiat 500 into a proper performance machine, delivering thrills that far exceed its tiny dimensions. Based on the regular Fiat 500, the Abarth version gets a turbocharged engine, sport suspension, and aggressive styling that sets it apart from everyday city cars. This isn’t your typical small hatchback competing with the Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Corsa. Instead, it’s a genuine hot hatch that brings Italian flair and serious performance to the compact car segment. The combination of distinctive looks, engaging driving dynamics, and that unmistakable Abarth exhaust note creates something truly special. Whether you’re navigating city streets or enjoying weekend drives on twisty roads, the Abarth 500 offers character and excitement that few rivals can match in this price range.
What's the Abarth 500 Like to Drive?
The Abarth 500 exists to deliver maximum driving thrills in minimum space. The range starts with the 1.4 T-Jet producing around 145 horsepower, which transforms this compact hatchback into a genuine pocket rocket. The more powerful Competizione version pushes out 180 horsepower, delivering 0-60 times of around 6.7 seconds. That’s seriously quick for such a small car, making it faster than many larger hot hatches.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.4L 4-cylinder T-Jet Turbo
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Power Output
145 - 180 bhp
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0-60 mph
7.3 - 6.7 seconds
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MPG Combined
35 - 40 mpg
- Boot Space
- 185 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
Abarth 500 Interior, Tech & Comfort Review
Step inside and the Abarth 500 immediately feels different from a regular Fiat 500. The sports seats are supportive and well bolstered, holding you in place during spirited driving. The steering wheel is chunky and feels good in your hands, while the gear shifter has a satisfying mechanical action. Abarth badging and red accent stitching add to the sporty atmosphere.
A tiny titan of thrill. The Abarth 500 isn’t just a Fiat with stripes; it’s a focused, exhilarating experience-a genuinely playful hot hatch in miniature form.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Abarth 500?
The Abarth 500 commands premium running costs that reflect its performance focus. Fuel economy hovers around 35-40 MPG in real world driving, which is respectable given the performance on offer. However, if you enjoy using that performance regularly, expect to see lower figures. Insurance groups are high due to the car’s hot hatch status and appeal to younger drivers.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Abarth 500
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Mini Cooper S
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Ford Fiesta ST
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £19,000 | £22,000 | £21,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.4L Turbo 145hp | 2.0L Turbo 178hp | 1.5L Turbo 200hp |
| Power | 145 bhp | 178 bhp | 200 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 7.3 seconds | 6.8 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 38 mpg | 40 mpg | 42 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 185 litres | 211 litres | 292 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Distinctive exhaust note, Retro styling, Italian flair | Premium interior, Go-kart handling, Customisation | Sharp handling, Practical space, Modern tech |
Is the Abarth 500 Practical for Everyday Use?
The Abarth 500’s compact dimensions make it superb for city use, slipping into tight parking spaces with ease. The 185 litre boot is quite small even by city car standards, but it’ll handle a weekly shop or a couple of soft bags for a weekend away. The rear seats fold to expand cargo space, though the opening is quite narrow.
Absolutely love my Abarth 500. The sound is incredible and it puts a smile on my face every single time I drive it. Yes, it’s firm and not the most practical, but the character more than makes up for it.
The Abarth 500 stands out as one of the most characterful small cars you can buy. It successfully transforms the cute Fiat 500 into a serious performance machine that delivers genuine thrills. The combination of turbo power, distinctive styling, and that intoxicating exhaust note creates something truly special in the small car segment.
