Thursday, September 25, 2008

Fiat launches super-tuned 500 Abarth


Car grills
Fiat's 500 Abarth promises to be a sought after baby hot hatch when it arrives in the UK next year, but just in case its 135bhp isn't enough for you, there's the new esseesse tuning kit.

The esseesse (pronounced simply 'S S') will be unveiled at the Paris Show alongside the racing version of the 500 and it goes a lot further than just a more powerful engine.

New 17-inch alloy wheels - available in white or a titanium finish - form part of the kit and really add to the sporting appearance of the Abarth model.

Lowered springs enhance the stance too, while new cross-drilled brake discs are fitted front and rear, along with high-performance brake pads at the front.

Performance is boosted by the 160bhp 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine, with 0-62mph taking 7.4 seconds and a top speed in excess of 130mph.

Although the esseesse tuning kit is only sold on mainland Europe through authorised Abarth showrooms, it's possible that UK buyers will obtain their cars through regular Fiat dealers. Prices have yet to be announced. Billet grills