2013 Fiat 500c Abarth Takes Its Top Off

November 28, 2012

Fiat has unveiled the 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth, which combines the style and open top design of the 500c, with the more powerful engine from the 500 Abarth.

Fans of the Fiat 500 Abarth, now another variant to choose from. Fiat has unveiled the 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth, which combines the style and open top design of the 500c, with the more powerful engine from the 500 Abarth. With 160 horsepower under the hood, the Fiat 500c Abarth will reach 0-60 mph in the low second range and with the push of a button the cloth top retracts at speeds up to 60 mph.

“The new Fiat 500c Abarth delivers the wicked attitude and track-proven capabilities of the hatchback model, now with the rush of open-air Italian performance,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of FIAT Brand for North America – Chrysler Group LLC. “And with the push of a button our new turbocharged cabrio can unleash that added sense of freedom, while offering one of the most respected soundtracks of all-time, the rasp from its signature Abarth-tuned dual exhausts.”

The 500c Abarth is powered by a turbocharged 1.4L MultiAir Turbo engine with 160 horsepower and 170 lb-ft. of torque. The turbocharged engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. In addition to the turbocharger, the 500C Abarth also gets an Abarth-designed fresh-air intake system with high-flow air filter. And to make sure the engine is operating with minimal exhaust gas restriction, an Abarth-designed concentric “double-tip” dual-exhaust system.

Fiat has also given the 500c Abarth a more “track-ready” suspension with a unique MacPherson suspension design with 33 percent stiffer front spring rates, 12 percent stiffer rear springs and a 15 mm lower ride height for improved handling and minimal body roll. For 10 percent quicker steering to enhance responsiveness, maneuverability and high-performance feel, the Fiat 500c Abarth features a 15.1:1 steering-gear ratio. Lastly, everything is kept under control with larger 11.1-inch ventilated rotors.