Being born in Turin, you cannot imagine how much I enjoyed this video. It is so nice seeing you American guys telling a story about my City ! Great work !
Yeah, I’m from Turin and I can guarantee there’s a lot to talk about. You can also talk about Giugiaro, one of the greatest Ferrari’s designer (also designer of the De Lorean and much more)
I’ve driven a 2018 Abarth 124 spider and not only is it fun as hell to drive, but it attracts positive attention from everyone, including those who aren’t car enthusiasts. Smiles and waves and people asking “what car is that?”. Easily one of the best experiences in a car I’ve ever had.
I can confirm u get a lot of positiv attention. Especially when ur at a parking slot. I drive the green 70th anniversario and I get more people to look and to ask me about this car than I got with my previous cars even though they were double the price and double the power. And it’s so fun to drive and listen to the exhaust.
We, in Italy, also use to say (mostly in the past) "you know what a hare is? An Abarth rabbit!" As usual a very nice and precise video by you.! Thanks!
I love these types of episodes where you guys did deep into old racing/tuning culture, I had no clue abarths was ever a thing but then I get to go talk about this episode with my grandpa who used to race anything he could get his hands onto and learn a little more!
My dad (born in 1952) told me that it wasn't unusual for his friends and him to bring home Abarth exhausts from vacation in Italy. It was the stuff to have back then.
I had a 2005 Stilo Abarth, man that thing was hilariously fun! 2.4l 5 cylinder, such a great sounding and handling car! It really was a track car for the road, so underrated!
I bought my 500 abarth I’m 2018, and since then the car is being pretty amazing…. It’s really fun to drive, and the engine is slow enough so you can have fun going thru all the gears before getting in too much trouble! Haha. I would highly recommend driving this car at least once ….. not a perfect car by any means, but super fun
I have owned a 2013 for 3 years. Bought it for 7 grand and I can easily say it is more fun than the 2016 Focus ST I Cobb tuned to 300hp. It ain't the speed (even thoughit's it's not slow), it's the way it handles any speed you through at it. And it's the perfect commuter. Parks anywhere, gets 30 mpg no matter how you drive, squirts through traffic because it's quick and small, and people stare at it because it's rare. We have a BMW 435i and a GLA45 AMG, and this thing is just as fun on the road!
@@bernardomotard Seriously, name a hot hatch that gets 30 mpg when driven agressively. I can't. That Focus ST I mentioned got 18 mpg driven the same way - the same figure I get for the BMW 435i XDrive.
@@frankiedeuce801 You said 30 mpg no matter what. He's saying a car that size seems like it should get better than 30 when driven economically is what I'm guessing. I'd hope it could get 40mpg driven easy
A modified 500 Abarth is some of the most fun you can have under $10K. Looks ridiculous, sounds ridiculous, and you just won't care. Love mine to pieces (sometimes literally).
@@user-360johnn eh, I mean it won’t ever leave you stranded, but reliable isn’t the word I’d use. Lots of little things like to break. Not terrible though, parts are cheap.
@@urock12201 100% agree. It is definitely not reliable, but it takes some love and care. Has not left me strandef but has had to be repaired in my garage for a bunch of little things.
That's awesome! As an Italian I can tell you, we used to see Abarth the way americans see Shelby. Now unfortunately, most of its glory is gone and the brand is nothing more than a trim and sporty tune up on the engine but thank you for doing this, Donut. Abarth was the sh*t and kicked ass.
Normally I’m an old school rwd enthusiast but after my ‘stang had to be put down when a pickup thought stop signs were optional I wanted a smaller car. I tried an Abarth. It had so much personality that gave it a go. Few mods later & it earned top 3 fun ride that I owned. Drive it like it was stolen & don’t get in trouble. Also no reliability issues.
@@silverrain99205 in Europe we get the T-jet engine instead of the multiair unit which is really fragile even by Fiat standards. the T-jet is rock solid though, currently put nearly 30k miles on it over a span of 3 years and apart from a breaking lightbulb its been faultless.
@@nielslernou7554 the multiair is fragile only to those that don't do the correct maintenance, put wrong oil or keep it too much in the engine... This is an oil actuated phase shifter with controls on single valves, not a pushrod 50years old tech stuff that to provide the same power must be 300kg and the size of a tank.
@@silverrain99205 5 years no issues just replaced 2 batteries, brake pads & tires. So high consumables replacement but no engine codes even with tune. Didn’t even go through a clutch.
Finally Abarth getting some love. I had a 500 Abarth and currently have a 124 Abarth and they are so much fun for the price. They also have been the most reliable cars I've had somehow lol.
yea I still have a 2012 abarth 500 i got a few years a got with very low km.... havent had a single issue other than the sticky tachometer when the sun beats down on the dash
@@Nickun_ true but those are still really fun believe it or not. It's not a super current EV with crazy range or power but it was a compelling package when it was new. You can get them for decent prices (or could pre pandemic)
@@michsaleeby413 100%. Do it. I drive a "base" model, no abarth touch, 1971 fiat 500 (grandpa's car) and I love it to death, those old fiat are almost alive
Great episode! I’ve had my 124 Abarth for almost two years and I smile every time I get in. Too bad FCA is bad at figuring out how to promote the Fiat/Abarth brand in the US and now they’ve pulled out. I bought the car because I thought it was neat but didn’t expect the looks and comments I get at every stop light/gas station.
More than two years waiting for this up to speed, finally! Thank you! As an Abarth owner is truly a pride to see the history of Mr. Carlo and to experience the passion for motoring built into this fun cars.
Actually the Lancia 037 was properly Abarth developed. Apart for this, great video. Probably in the top 3 best up to speed videos and if it helps more people to know better one of the most underrated car tuner/maker ever, I'm oh so in.
I bought a brand new Abarth 595 Trofeo in 2017 and it was absolutely incredible. 180bhp and yet would do 50mpg on the motorway. In Europe it's one of the perfect cars for everyday performance.
I bought my 500 Abarth about a year ago, and it’s honestly my favorite car I’ve ever owned. It’s had some issues. That’s fiat for you. Things break, interior is pretty damn cheap. But the car is just addicting as hell. Has surprisingly a ton of space for how small it looks. And that damn that sound. Currently I have a stock exhaust. People think I’m joking when I say it’s stock. They honored Abarth perfectly with this car. Honestly thought I’d keep the car for a few years, get my fix, then get rid of it. But I can’t imagine selling it. It’s just that incredible.
@footballcoreano The Abarth specific parts seem to be holding up very well. It's mostly the fiat specific parts. But it doesn't bother me. It could also be the previous owner. Just gotta get mine back to perfect condition, and keep it that way. That's how most cars are nowadays anyways. Treat it right, it'll treat you right. Either way, I absolutely adore the car.
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU, Donut Media for finally doing this episode. I have one of the first Abarth's that came to the US that I bought new, in almost 10yrs, at 123,000/miles and driven across the US it's been a nothing but fun. This car will be in my garage forever and is very special little nugget.
Bought a 2015 Abarth 500 in 2020. At 56, it's the first car I've ever owned! And it's a manual! The thing is completely bonkers for its size! The car HUNGERS for high RPMs and windy roads!
Wanted one since they came out, bought my 2013 with 113k in late 2020 when everyone thought the world was ending. 20k miles later and it's the most fun car I've ever owned. Totally exceeded all expectations, and surprisingly great on the highway considering my baseline is a slew of large luxury cars
@@Milnoc I'm referring moreso to the space, ride, NVH etc. I went into it thinking it'd only be fun as a city car or spirited drive, and not well suited for long distance highway trips. But I was pleasantly mistaken As for MPG, drive it modestly and it's very impressive; 35+ I usually get 24mpg. Always easy on it until warmed up, and give sufficient time to cool down I love the lil bugger, more fun to me than BMW e30
After many comments left under videos of this series asking for one on the abarth legacy I saw that it had been made years ago. Hearing that people know and like the 131 abarth, having one of those few 400 produced, always makes me happy as well as leaving a big smile on my face. Thank you Donut
This video is incredible! I've searched around the internet a few times for a long-form video like this with a history of abarth, but never found a good one. When I was looking for my first car after I got my first job, I landed on a used 2013 Fiat 500 abarth. 5 Years later and I have no regrets. The insane exhaust with the dinky little body, it's too silly not too love. I really hope they bring some Abarth models back to the US at some point.
If anyone is lucky enough to get one, I HIGHLY recommend getting a 124 Spider, Abarth or not. It’s the modern Mazdaspeed Miata everyone wants and just as reliable. I have a Classica and it’s not much different than the Abarth trim, and with a couple of bolt-ons and a tune you’re doing 240+ hp easy.
@@BrisLS1 The Miata ND and the 124 were actually built as a joint project between Fiat and Mazda, so while they technically share a frame, they were designed to have completely different driving experiences. I hope that helped clear up some confusion
@@BrisLS1 the 124 comes with a 1.4L turbo I4 engine as opposed to Mazda's 2.0 N/A engine, other than that not sure of any other major differences, but the Fiat does make more power stock
I love my Abarth so much that I never want to get rid of it. It’s like a miniature super car. It drives fantastic, sounds incredible, and people have no idea what it is. I get into conversations with people about it at gas stations and drive-thrus on a bi-weekly basis.
I have a 2018 124 spider abarth and M4s and C63s struggle to keep up with me on mountain roads despite having 3 times as much power. It handles so well, the limited slip diff works perfectly and the engine has so much torque that it feels like Diesel engine. I personally think it’s more fun than a Miata because torquey engine just pulls so hard when exiting a corner. Amazing car.
The first picture of the red 205a you showed made me almost emotional. A tear literally formed in my eye. That's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.
@@joshuagibson2520 Carvana offered me exactly what I paid for it almost exactly 5 years before and I picked up a 981 Cayman GTS just prior to selling the Abarth. I still miss the sound.
I’ve driven several 500 Abarths and can confirm they live up to the hype. Fun as hell and super easy to work on. The manual is a joy but sadly only has 5 speeds iirc. Interior quality is crappy but who cares when it’s a stock hatchback that’s literally shoots flames. I was dogging the shit out of one and making it pop a lot intentionally, 5 minutes later the sheriff comes up saying they had reports of multiple gunshots 😂
As an owner of one of these 500 Abarths, I absolutely agree. Fun as hell and an absolute blast to drive every day. Been my only car for 8 years until now; had to get a winter car. I figure it's had enough with getting beat up by northeast winters. I highly recommend driving one at least once!
Shame you guys didn't look further into why Lancia was put in front and Abarth were seemingly off the map since the 80's. Abarth had a major stake in the existence of some of the most legendary Lancia's, like the Delta S4 and 037, the 037 stradale even carries the scorpion logo on the C pillars, the steering wheel, and the cylinderheads. Great video as always!
As an abarth owner, ill say this. They are not the fastest, they aren't the quickest, nor are they best handling, but if you want a car that can make any point in a drive fun, you need an abarth
I own the slightly raised version of this Punto called the Urban Cross Abarth, same engine and body with 205mm ground clearance. It isn't as good at cornering, but it's awesome for driving fast on dirt, gravel, or just plain bumpy roads with potholes and where I live most roads are like that 😉.
Turbocharged FIRE engines were common in many Fiat group models including Alfas and Lancias. I'd say the AGP and APE throughout it's presence on the market received more powerful variants than A500, only after Punto's discontinuation (or shortly before) the A500 went beyond 160 hp. Correct me if I'm wrong.
@@spavatchthe grande punto abarth came with base 155 hp as it has the IHI turbo. The evo punto abarth (facelifted model) came with the Garret 1446 turbo which pumped out 160hp stock but with a tune would easily pump out 180hp and above depending on other mods. I am in Australia and have a Grande Punto Abarth pushing around 180 after a sports downpipe, bigger intercooler and an uprated turbo actuator. I'm saving for a bigger turbo so I can bump the power up to around 250hp reliably.
Great episode! My dad, had a Autobianchi a112 Abarth. It was a small car with 900cc engine with 70bhp, but was a rocket. Still have memories from the drive.
I just wanted to say that its all because of you and this channel that i got into cars. for like 4 years now ive been incredibly insane about the vroom vroom and you guys have been my biggest influence for it. It if it wasnt for you i might have still thought the Devel 16 was a real car, thank you so much.
It’s hilarious these scam sex comments, obviously whoever writes these has no idea about the English language, for their grammar is basically nonexistent lol.
Best automotive decision ive ever made was getting my Abarth 500... tell your boyfriend to test drive one... traction controll off and sport button on... he will demand you get two
my family actually owns one of these and i'm a passenger in it all the time, its very fun, its a lil go kart basically and you can almost feel the ground below you, pretty fun even if ur not drivin
I have a Abarth 500, since new in 2011. It's the most fun car I have every driven. It just makes you smile. You can drive it at ten/tenths with little risk of losing your licence (well maybe some risk). Love it, it's my forever car. Love the brand so much bought a new Abarth 124 four years ago. Sadly these seem to be the few of the last of genuinely fun analogue cars.
I got my 2013 abarth about 2 years ago. And while it's not the fastest possible car to own I got a really good deal for it with less that 55k miles on it and a whole car fax of consistent service records like oil changes. So it was solid, and has good gas mpg. I have to say it's likely the most fun car I've ever driven. You feel like a child when you push that sport mode button and the car basically transforms from a little fiat to a fuckin gremlin. The throttle response and engine really open up, you hear the turbo and the car just goes hard as fuck. Granted I'm basically driving a turbocharged go cart, but I feel like I'm driving something ridiculous you would made in GTA. Definitely a 10/10 for me. (Sidenote: when you start that engine you wouldn't believe how many heads I've turned because of how fuckin gnarly the exhaust sounds.)
I'm an owner of a 1974 124 coupe and love the car so much. This episode made my day. Fiat and Abarth are not really talked about in car scenes that much, so to see you guys make this videos is awesome. They kinda get a bad rep but they truly are amazing cars to drive and surprisingly fast and reliable after some modifications.
Great video as always guys! One thing you got wrong though is that while the road car division died in the 80s, the Abarth racing division never ceased to be. After the Fiat campaign, it became Lancia-Abarth working on Lancia’s rally and endurance programs. In the 90s, after the acquisition of Alfa Romeo, it became Alfa Corse working on the supertouring and dtm cars. Then in the 00s it came back rallying with mk2 Punto, Stilo and Panda for Fiat, sporting beautiful blue and yellow liveries. With the road car division alive again it worked on the rally versions of the Abarth Grande Punto, 500 and 124. Today it’s still alive working on it’s own trophies cars, the 695s assetto corse and the 124 cup.
I own one and I ABSOLUTELY love that thing! It´s not the fastest car in the world but it is just an absolute pleasure to drive, specially the stick shift ones.
I'm far from being someone who loves small cars, but I'd drive a 500 (Abarth or not) without even thinking about it! They SO nailed that design, it's just beautiful. And thanks for that long awaited Abarth episode guys, I've been one of the dudes asking for it for years. Imo, you should have upped the crazy for this episode because it's one of the craziest tuning companies out there. If you were based in Europe, you would know how many econo shitboxes they have given their treatment through the years and every one of them is something special, performance for average Joe.
This is the first up to speed that’s interested me from the start in a while. Don’t get me wrong all of the others I reluctantly watched and still really enjoyed but this topic has been interesting from the topic alone
Yo James just wanna say I gotta lot of love for you bro and I’m glad you’re still with us after what happened! You put a smile on a lot of peoples faces real shit thank you🤙🏼
As you can see by my youtube profile picture, i love 500 abarth. A few bolt ons and a tune(most important & controversial which none is cheap) and its 198hp 227?tq at the wheels. Still get 30-35mpg doing daily driving, and tons of thrills when cruising. Its not fast, its barely quick(but 2630ishlbs with me in it, 2487lbs without me). But the senses it tingles...oh boy is perfect for not getting in deep sh*t.
You guys have so many up to speed videos I'm never going to be up to speed. I think I'm okay with that though. Because it means there's always something to watch. 🤘
Great video! Only two little things, when you start about spicing Fiat 500s back in the day, you keep showing Fiat 600s. Speaking of, the 500 of 1957 was the Nuova 500, because it was actually the second one! The first one was a pre-war car (also sold after, but hey) which is so cute that it's named Mickey Mouse (Topolino in italiano 😊)
Had a 2012 abarth 500 and have driven my fair share of sports cars and that thing was the most fun I've ever had behind the wheel. They say the mini Cooper handles like a go-kart but the abarth really did and it made all the right sounds to just enjoy a spirited drive in the moutians.
I live in Canada and there’s wicked snow right now, every day on my way to work i see some guy in a newer abarth just giving er around the corners every day it’s hilarious. Cool cars people don’t respect much anymore I think they’re awesome sweet video
Yooooooooooooo!!!!!!! No freakin wayyyyyyy!!!!!!! I have been waiting for this video for so long🥺😭🙏🏼❤️ thank you so much!!!!!!!!!! I have a 2015 Abarth 500 that has been such a snow beast in Colorado and I can't even imagine getting a regular Fiat 500, had to go straight for the Abarth🦂 perfect video!!!❤️🙏🏼
Ive had a couple abarth 595s in the family now and i can assure you that they're some of the most fun little go karts of a car you can get, love em to death
My grandpa had a Fiat Abarth 500 5 speed, I learned how to drive stick in it and OMG its such a great little sports car that has a lot of get up a go. It sounds sooo good too
I bought a 2012 Abarth 500 3 years ago and it has been a fun and just overall awesome car. Thanks for the info it makes me appreciate Zippy even more 😄
Being born in Turin, you cannot imagine how much I enjoyed this video. It is so nice seeing you American guys telling a story about my City ! Great work !
I'm Greek and I'm proud of Abarth, if I was from Turin, I'd be even prouder... Grazie mille, Karl Abarth.
I really want an abarth
Juventus or Torino?
Ciao simo
@@gokulmanohar5677 Juve 🙂
This Up to Speed just made me realise we need videos on the Italian coach builders. Pinifarina, Bertone and Zagato could all easily fill an episode.
Hell yeah, that’d be amazing
Yeah, I’m from Turin and I can guarantee there’s a lot to talk about. You can also talk about Giugiaro, one of the greatest Ferrari’s designer (also designer of the De Lorean and much more)
@@Idelvion I knew I fotgot one of the big ones and Giugiaro was the one. Bothered me I couldn't remember
I agreee for the Bertone
Don't forget touring from milan😁
Always wanted to drive one of the Abarth's. Seems like a go kart and the sounds are pretty badass for something like that
They’ve always been a bit underrated, glad to see Abarth get some love
My SiL has one. It's extremely fun, but not really go-kart like. It's surprisingly refined.
Bro these bots
You should find one to drive they are a blast, and it's different not many people know what they are.
I've owned an Abarth for 7 1/2 years. Since getting my license, I've owned 14 cars. It's my favorite, bar none.
Donut,
As one of literally tens of FIAT enthusiasts here in the states,
Thank you for this.
I am also one of the tens😂
I think it’s appropriate that after 7 months only 3 of us have surfaced.
@@jays.8475 make that 4!
@@jays.8475 dont forget about me! been about 2 years now!
6 now 💪😤
I’ve driven a 2018 Abarth 124 spider and not only is it fun as hell to drive, but it attracts positive attention from everyone, including those who aren’t car enthusiasts.
Smiles and waves and people asking “what car is that?”. Easily one of the best experiences in a car I’ve ever had.
Cuz it’s a rebrand Mazda Miata
I can confirm u get a lot of positiv attention. Especially when ur at a parking slot. I drive the green 70th anniversario and I get more people to look and to ask me about this car than I got with my previous cars even though they were double the price and double the power. And it’s so fun to drive and listen to the exhaust.
with a 1.4 turbo engine and more power than an simply mx-5. So, its not a "simply" rebadge @@jeff346
We, in Italy, also use to say (mostly in the past)
"you know what a hare is? An Abarth rabbit!"
As usual a very nice and precise video by you.! Thanks!
I love it! 😁
@@saif9014 torna sulla bici
@@saif9014 the Abarth is so much love.
How does it go in Italian?
@@PabloSanchez-qu6ib in Español :
¿Sabes lo que es una liebre? ¡Un conejo Abarth!
In italian:
Sai cos'è una lepre? Un coniglio Abarth!
I love these types of episodes where you guys did deep into old racing/tuning culture, I had no clue abarths was ever a thing but then I get to go talk about this episode with my grandpa who used to race anything he could get his hands onto and learn a little more!
man these bots
@Damar Fadlan yes.
Finally, some REAL Up to Speed - I missed these videos.
Someone stole your comment.
@@ultraguy8771 man, these bots sucks
F*cking bots everywhere
Fr
I share your feelings
My dad (born in 1952) told me that it wasn't unusual for his friends and him to bring home Abarth exhausts from vacation in Italy. It was the stuff to have back then.
I had a 2005 Stilo Abarth, man that thing was hilariously fun! 2.4l 5 cylinder, such a great sounding and handling car! It really was a track car for the road, so underrated!
I bought my 500 abarth I’m 2018, and since then the car is being pretty amazing…. It’s really fun to drive, and the engine is slow enough so you can have fun going thru all the gears before getting in too much trouble! Haha. I would highly recommend driving this car at least once ….. not a perfect car by any means, but super fun
Hey Donut can you delete these thot comments please? Thx
@@CreepinCreeper145 they'd need to hire a full time comment moderator. This is a youtube wide issue spam filter issue
@@milea4459 idc go away
Fiat are hot trash and have ruined an American car company rest in peace Dodge
@@CreepinCreeper145 hey TH-cam can you restore the dislike counter and remove all the bots thank you and no nfts as well thank you
I have owned a 2013 for 3 years. Bought it for 7 grand and I can easily say it is more fun than the 2016 Focus ST I Cobb tuned to 300hp. It ain't the speed (even thoughit's it's not slow), it's the way it handles any speed you through at it. And it's the perfect commuter. Parks anywhere, gets 30 mpg no matter how you drive, squirts through traffic because it's quick and small, and people stare at it because it's rare. We have a BMW 435i and a GLA45 AMG, and this thing is just as fun on the road!
Tbf, 30 mpg is deplorable for such a small car
@@bernardomotard Seriously, name a hot hatch that gets 30 mpg when driven agressively. I can't. That Focus ST I mentioned got 18 mpg driven the same way - the same figure I get for the BMW 435i XDrive.
@@frankiedeuce801 He's just hating but clearly hasn't even driven on
@@frankiedeuce801
You said 30 mpg no matter what. He's saying a car that size seems like it should get better than 30 when driven economically is what I'm guessing. I'd hope it could get 40mpg driven easy
My buddy had one and would fly through roundabouts. He was a maniac in his little go kart, lots of fun for him, terrifying for his passengers
A modified 500 Abarth is some of the most fun you can have under $10K. Looks ridiculous, sounds ridiculous, and you just won't care. Love mine to pieces (sometimes literally).
Ain't that a mood. It's a labor of love
I drive a stage 2 abarth 500. It’s not fast but can keep up in the corner ☺️
Is it reliable
@@user-360johnn eh, I mean it won’t ever leave you stranded, but reliable isn’t the word I’d use. Lots of little things like to break. Not terrible though, parts are cheap.
@@urock12201 100% agree. It is definitely not reliable, but it takes some love and care. Has not left me strandef but has had to be repaired in my garage for a bunch of little things.
My grandfather had a 600 Abarth as it’s first car. He still tells me stories about that car. They were little, quirky rockets for the time!
omg wow. why did he sell it?
there is a new fiat 600 coming in the following years
That's awesome! As an Italian I can tell you, we used to see Abarth the way americans see Shelby. Now unfortunately, most of its glory is gone and the brand is nothing more than a trim and sporty tune up on the engine but thank you for doing this, Donut. Abarth was the sh*t and kicked ass.
Normally I’m an old school rwd enthusiast but after my ‘stang had to be put down when a pickup thought stop signs were optional I wanted a smaller car. I tried an Abarth. It had so much personality that gave it a go. Few mods later & it earned top 3 fun ride that I owned. Drive it like it was stolen & don’t get in trouble. Also no reliability issues.
No reliability issues??!! I don’t believe that lol.
@@silverrain99205 in Europe we get the T-jet engine instead of the multiair unit which is really fragile even by Fiat standards. the T-jet is rock solid though, currently put nearly 30k miles on it over a span of 3 years and apart from a breaking lightbulb its been faultless.
@@nielslernou7554 the multiair is fragile only to those that don't do the correct maintenance, put wrong oil or keep it too much in the engine... This is an oil actuated phase shifter with controls on single valves, not a pushrod 50years old tech stuff that to provide the same power must be 300kg and the size of a tank.
@@silverrain99205 5 years no issues just replaced 2 batteries, brake pads & tires. So high consumables replacement but no engine codes even with tune. Didn’t even go through a clutch.
@@AlessandroGenTLe yes. More like Panzer tank.
Finally Abarth getting some love. I had a 500 Abarth and currently have a 124 Abarth and they are so much fun for the price. They also have been the most reliable cars I've had somehow lol.
We picked up a 500e this year for super cheap. So much fun!
@@float32 that's not an abarth?
yea I still have a 2012 abarth 500 i got a few years a got with very low km.... havent had a single issue other than the sticky tachometer when the sun beats down on the dash
@@Nickun_ true but those are still really fun believe it or not. It's not a super current EV with crazy range or power but it was a compelling package when it was new. You can get them for decent prices (or could pre pandemic)
All of your other cars must have been built by Masarati.
Love the old Abarths, my grandpa had an old 80’s Fiat 124 and I wish he never sold it
@yo lo bots that’s what
Shut up bots
Oh man those were so sweeeeet! Everytime I see an old abarth drive by, it puts a big smile on my face
@@Rico_71 I love those cars man, one of these days I need to buy one for myself!
@@michsaleeby413 100%. Do it. I drive a "base" model, no abarth touch, 1971 fiat 500 (grandpa's car) and I love it to death, those old fiat are almost alive
Great episode! I’ve had my 124 Abarth for almost two years and I smile every time I get in. Too bad FCA is bad at figuring out how to promote the Fiat/Abarth brand in the US and now they’ve pulled out. I bought the car because I thought it was neat but didn’t expect the looks and comments I get at every stop light/gas station.
Stellantis*
More than two years waiting for this up to speed, finally! Thank you! As an Abarth owner is truly a pride to see the history of Mr. Carlo and to experience the passion for motoring built into this fun cars.
Actually the Lancia 037 was properly Abarth developed. Apart for this, great video. Probably in the top 3 best up to speed videos and if it helps more people to know better one of the most underrated car tuner/maker ever, I'm oh so in.
This was well & truly worth the wait. Great episode Donut team 🦂 Abarth FTW
Those lesbian bots made everyone sick.
@Damar Fadlan those bots made everyone mad.
I bought a brand new Abarth 595 Trofeo in 2017 and it was absolutely incredible. 180bhp and yet would do 50mpg on the motorway. In Europe it's one of the perfect cars for everyday performance.
I have a 2019 Turismo as my first car and it’s just bonkers, it loves the mountain roads here in Spain
I bought my 500 Abarth about a year ago, and it’s honestly my favorite car I’ve ever owned. It’s had some issues. That’s fiat for you. Things break, interior is pretty damn cheap. But the car is just addicting as hell. Has surprisingly a ton of space for how small it looks. And that damn that sound. Currently I have a stock exhaust. People think I’m joking when I say it’s stock. They honored Abarth perfectly with this car. Honestly thought I’d keep the car for a few years, get my fix, then get rid of it. But I can’t imagine selling it. It’s just that incredible.
@footballcoreano The Abarth specific parts seem to be holding up very well. It's mostly the fiat specific parts. But it doesn't bother me. It could also be the previous owner. Just gotta get mine back to perfect condition, and keep it that way. That's how most cars are nowadays anyways. Treat it right, it'll treat you right. Either way, I absolutely adore the car.
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU, Donut Media for finally doing this episode. I have one of the first Abarth's that came to the US that I bought new, in almost 10yrs, at 123,000/miles and driven across the US it's been a nothing but fun. This car will be in my garage forever and is very special little nugget.
Donut Media has become a part of my daily schedule. You guys have taught me so much lol
I didn't come here for that. I came here to watch cars
Fuckin hose. Smh....
Bought a 2015 Abarth 500 in 2020. At 56, it's the first car I've ever owned! And it's a manual! The thing is completely bonkers for its size! The car HUNGERS for high RPMs and windy roads!
Congratulations Franky👏🏾👍🏾💯
@@beastmaster415 the 2015 Abarth still has everything including light handling.
Hell yeah !
way to go! I had mine for 8 years now and still love it.
I bought a 2015 also. I loveeeeeeeee this damn car. Good on gas, fast (for the size), easy to park. It’s a dream!
Wanted one since they came out, bought my 2013 with 113k in late 2020 when everyone thought the world was ending. 20k miles later and it's the most fun car I've ever owned. Totally exceeded all expectations, and surprisingly great on the highway considering my baseline is a slew of large luxury cars
That's what I've noticed. Put in some 91 octane fuel and it'll give you excellent mileage even with slightly aggressive driving.
@@Milnoc I'm referring moreso to the space, ride, NVH etc. I went into it thinking it'd only be fun as a city car or spirited drive, and not well suited for long distance highway trips. But I was pleasantly mistaken
As for MPG, drive it modestly and it's very impressive; 35+
I usually get 24mpg. Always easy on it until warmed up, and give sufficient time to cool down
I love the lil bugger, more fun to me than BMW e30
After many comments left under videos of this series asking for one on the abarth legacy I saw that it had been made years ago.
Hearing that people know and like the 131 abarth, having one of those few 400 produced, always makes me happy as well as leaving a big smile on my face. Thank you Donut
This video is incredible! I've searched around the internet a few times for a long-form video like this with a history of abarth, but never found a good one.
When I was looking for my first car after I got my first job, I landed on a used 2013 Fiat 500 abarth. 5 Years later and I have no regrets. The insane exhaust with the dinky little body, it's too silly not too love. I really hope they bring some Abarth models back to the US at some point.
If anyone is lucky enough to get one, I HIGHLY recommend getting a 124 Spider, Abarth or not. It’s the modern Mazdaspeed Miata everyone wants and just as reliable. I have a Classica and it’s not much different than the Abarth trim, and with a couple of bolt-ons and a tune you’re doing 240+ hp easy.
Isn't the 124 just a Miata with a Italian sports coat? Just saying.
Hell yeah man, I've got a '20 Lusso that I've got a full stage 3 kit on, she screeeeeeams bro
@@BrisLS1 The Miata ND and the 124 were actually built as a joint project between Fiat and Mazda, so while they technically share a frame, they were designed to have completely different driving experiences. I hope that helped clear up some confusion
@@BrisLS1 the 124 comes with a 1.4L turbo I4 engine as opposed to Mazda's 2.0 N/A engine, other than that not sure of any other major differences, but the Fiat does make more power stock
I love my Abarth so much that I never want to get rid of it. It’s like a miniature super car. It drives fantastic, sounds incredible, and people have no idea what it is. I get into conversations with people about it at gas stations and drive-thrus on a bi-weekly basis.
Yup... The best thing about owning an abarth is pulling up next to a porche or vette and just revving the engine. Always get a smile and a laugh back
Great video! Happy to see an underated Brand get some love. These cars are truly amazing.
🔥🔥🔥 best parts for abarth!!
Y'all still manage to make them better though
@@YuriTereshyn Thanks Yuri! Loved your series bro!
@@ildesalinas3412 Appreciate that!
I have a 2018 124 spider abarth and M4s and C63s struggle to keep up with me on mountain roads despite having 3 times as much power. It handles so well, the limited slip diff works perfectly and the engine has so much torque that it feels like Diesel engine.
I personally think it’s more fun than a Miata because torquey engine just pulls so hard when exiting a corner. Amazing car.
The first picture of the red 205a you showed made me almost emotional. A tear literally formed in my eye. That's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.
Having just bought one in September 2021 I’ve been waiting for this episode they’re so underrated and sound so amazing
Same, June of 2021...but almost regret the purchase
got one in November
New, or used?
They sound a lil over the top for the amount of horses they actually have
@@BrandMalone24 used. Mine is a 2013
I owned a 2015 500 Abarth for 5 years it was insanely fun and more practical than you'd think.
Why did you get rid of it?
@@joshuagibson2520 Carvana offered me exactly what I paid for it almost exactly 5 years before and I picked up a 981 Cayman GTS just prior to selling the Abarth. I still miss the sound.
Congratulations on 6 Million subscribers Donut Media, We need an asap Up To Speed on how much Nolan weighted when he was born…
A lot probably but still not quite as much as your mom
I’ve driven several 500 Abarths and can confirm they live up to the hype. Fun as hell and super easy to work on. The manual is a joy but sadly only has 5 speeds iirc. Interior quality is crappy but who cares when it’s a stock hatchback that’s literally shoots flames. I was dogging the shit out of one and making it pop a lot intentionally, 5 minutes later the sheriff comes up saying they had reports of multiple gunshots 😂
As an owner of one of these 500 Abarths, I absolutely agree. Fun as hell and an absolute blast to drive every day. Been my only car for 8 years until now; had to get a winter car. I figure it's had enough with getting beat up by northeast winters. I highly recommend driving one at least once!
Shame you guys didn't look further into why Lancia was put in front and Abarth were seemingly off the map since the 80's. Abarth had a major stake in the existence of some of the most legendary Lancia's, like the Delta S4 and 037, the 037 stradale even carries the scorpion logo on the C pillars, the steering wheel, and the cylinderheads. Great video as always!
As an abarth owner, ill say this. They are not the fastest, they aren't the quickest, nor are they best handling, but if you want a car that can make any point in a drive fun, you need an abarth
fun > numbers
Poop. A go-kart can also be fun, but there are way better options.
Very similar to a clio 172/182
poop comment
There was also Grande Punto Abarth in EU before 500. It has pretty much the same engine as 500 Abarth (1.4 T-Jet)
@@venia..4529 Spam much?
I own the slightly raised version of this Punto called the Urban Cross Abarth, same engine and body with 205mm ground clearance. It isn't as good at cornering, but it's awesome for driving fast on dirt, gravel, or just plain bumpy roads with potholes and where I live most roads are like that 😉.
Turbocharged FIRE engines were common in many Fiat group models including Alfas and Lancias. I'd say the AGP and APE throughout it's presence on the market received more powerful variants than A500, only after Punto's discontinuation (or shortly before) the A500 went beyond 160 hp. Correct me if I'm wrong.
@@spavatchthe grande punto abarth came with base 155 hp as it has the IHI turbo. The evo punto abarth (facelifted model) came with the Garret 1446 turbo which pumped out 160hp stock but with a tune would easily pump out 180hp and above depending on other mods.
I am in Australia and have a Grande Punto Abarth pushing around 180 after a sports downpipe, bigger intercooler and an uprated turbo actuator. I'm saving for a bigger turbo so I can bump the power up to around 250hp reliably.
@@stevenroberts9172 Won't your gearbox blow up? I've heard that they can't handle 200+
Great episode!
My dad, had a Autobianchi a112 Abarth.
It was a small car with 900cc engine with 70bhp, but was a rocket.
Still have memories from the drive.
i love the A112 Abarth, such a cool litel car.
I just wanted to say that its all because of you and this channel that i got into cars. for like 4 years now ive been incredibly insane about the vroom vroom and you guys have been my biggest influence for it. It if it wasnt for you i might have still thought the Devel 16 was a real car, thank you so much.
As a euro boi, I love everything about abarth. My love of Fiat stems from them.
I’ve had my 2014 Abarth 500 for over a year and I’d gladly get another it’s a great car with an even greater historical significance in racing
Finally an Up to Speed on Abarth! Good job Donut!
Bro the videos not finished yet
@@PotatoSkibidiRato it doesn’t matter! What matters is the attention and respect Abarth’s getting.
It’s hilarious these scam sex comments, obviously whoever writes these has no idea about the English language, for their grammar is basically nonexistent lol.
Having a 595 Pista since 2 years and as a french fan of Donut media, you can't imagine how i'm happy about this video. Mopowa baby
Have a 2012 500 Abarth. That car is such a blast to drive. The exhaust note is just nuts, and it's so fun to just toss around.
This video might convince my boyfriend that I have been right all along with this car. I've only wanted one for three years. Bless you James 🙏
Yo, Madison's bf, listen to her. She knows what's up.
@@Donut Only replying to Girls, James knows whats up
@@shrinivaspatil2065 looks like I might have to catfish 🤔😂 jk jk
Find another boyfriend. 😂
Best automotive decision ive ever made was getting my Abarth 500... tell your boyfriend to test drive one... traction controll off and sport button on... he will demand you get two
The evolution of Up to Speed is unreal. Go watch the old ones they’re wild too
I kinda miss the hilarious chaotic energy of the original up to speed tho
my family actually owns one of these and i'm a passenger in it all the time, its very fun, its a lil go kart basically and you can almost feel the ground below you, pretty fun even if ur not drivin
Thanks! from the number 1 Abarth Owner!
I have a Abarth 500, since new in 2011. It's the most fun car I have every driven. It just makes you smile. You can drive it at ten/tenths with little risk of losing your licence (well maybe some risk). Love it, it's my forever car. Love the brand so much bought a new Abarth 124 four years ago.
Sadly these seem to be the few of the last of genuinely fun analogue cars.
Abarth is one of my fav brands so i am very glad that you guy's made a video keep doing what you are doing guy's!!
I got my 2013 abarth about 2 years ago. And while it's not the fastest possible car to own I got a really good deal for it with less that 55k miles on it and a whole car fax of consistent service records like oil changes. So it was solid, and has good gas mpg. I have to say it's likely the most fun car I've ever driven. You feel like a child when you push that sport mode button and the car basically transforms from a little fiat to a fuckin gremlin. The throttle response and engine really open up, you hear the turbo and the car just goes hard as fuck. Granted I'm basically driving a turbocharged go cart, but I feel like I'm driving something ridiculous you would made in GTA. Definitely a 10/10 for me. (Sidenote: when you start that engine you wouldn't believe how many heads I've turned because of how fuckin gnarly the exhaust sounds.)
Hell yeah bet that was fun af
I'm an owner of a 1974 124 coupe and love the car so much. This episode made my day. Fiat and Abarth are not really talked about in car scenes that much, so to see you guys make this videos is awesome. They kinda get a bad rep but they truly are amazing cars to drive and surprisingly fast and reliable after some modifications.
Great video as always guys! One thing you got wrong though is that while the road car division died in the 80s, the Abarth racing division never ceased to be.
After the Fiat campaign, it became Lancia-Abarth working on Lancia’s rally and endurance programs. In the 90s, after the acquisition of Alfa Romeo, it became Alfa Corse working on the supertouring and dtm cars. Then in the 00s it came back rallying with mk2 Punto, Stilo and Panda for Fiat, sporting beautiful blue and yellow liveries. With the road car division alive again it worked on the rally versions of the Abarth Grande Punto, 500 and 124. Today it’s still alive working on it’s own trophies cars, the 695s assetto corse and the 124 cup.
It's amazing, have had mine for 4 years. Not a single mechanical problem. Tons of smiles. Highly recommend!!!
I own one and I ABSOLUTELY love that thing! It´s not the fastest car in the world but it is just an absolute pleasure to drive, specially the stick shift ones.
Had an abarth fiat bravo 2000 and 2001. Impossible to find nowadays and they looked awesome
Great video, it's important to have the next generation know the history of brands like Abarth and Lancia. A dedicated Lancia episode would be cool.
Finally!!!!! I've waited YEARS for this and you drive one and fall in love.
I'm far from being someone who loves small cars, but I'd drive a 500 (Abarth or not) without even thinking about it! They SO nailed that design, it's just beautiful.
And thanks for that long awaited Abarth episode guys, I've been one of the dudes asking for it for years. Imo, you should have upped the crazy for this episode because it's one of the craziest tuning companies out there. If you were based in Europe, you would know how many econo shitboxes they have given their treatment through the years and every one of them is something special, performance for average Joe.
I’d love to see some more semi truck brands. Some tiny cars followed by a big truck.
Yes please, time for Scania. V8 turbodiesels with earth flattening performance... And sick sound.
Mack. Freightliner. Peterbuilt. Etc. Etc. Make it happen Donut.
Abarths are powerful even in India, was waiting for upto speed finally.
Being small is BIG POWER is absolutely wayyy better than being BIG with small tiny power.
This is the first up to speed that’s interested me from the start in a while. Don’t get me wrong all of the others I reluctantly watched and still really enjoyed but this topic has been interesting from the topic alone
Yo James just wanna say I gotta lot of love for you bro and I’m glad you’re still with us after what happened! You put a smile on a lot of peoples faces real shit thank you🤙🏼
This car actually needs to be in Need for Speed. I would try to buy one
As you can see by my youtube profile picture, i love 500 abarth. A few bolt ons and a tune(most important & controversial which none is cheap) and its 198hp 227?tq at the wheels. Still get 30-35mpg doing daily driving, and tons of thrills when cruising. Its not fast, its barely quick(but 2630ishlbs with me in it, 2487lbs without me). But the senses it tingles...oh boy is perfect for not getting in deep sh*t.
Don't forget the mighty Punto Abarth. The rarest of the modern Abarth's
I own the Grande Punto. Fun to drive, handles like a dream , easy to mod and cheap parts. Stock internals you could run easy 250-300hp.
As a 2016 Abarth 500 owner, thank you for this video.
You guys have so many up to speed videos I'm never going to be up to speed. I think I'm okay with that though. Because it means there's always something to watch. 🤘
I used to have one. Favorite car I’ve ever owned! I love the little thing!
Then why don’t you have one anymore?
Honestly I think the 500 abarth is really cool and i want one
The 500 abarth has one of the best OEM stock exhaust sounds under $50k
I only paid $8,900 used for mine! 😁
@@Milnoc I paid 5500 😎
@@DatFunnyStuff190 Ooof, that depreciation is brutal
@@Ontheregz haha worked in my favour on this one🤣
@@DatFunnyStuff190 When did you buy it, which model year and what mileage?
I own a modern 595 Abarth and would never of thought that little scorpion meant so much. Great upload.
Had a Fiat 128 wagon, 128 sedan, 131 Supermirafiore and last a 124 sport. All in New Zealand in the 80' and 90s. Loved them all. Kiwi Pete
Great video! Only two little things, when you start about spicing Fiat 500s back in the day, you keep showing Fiat 600s. Speaking of, the 500 of 1957 was the Nuova 500, because it was actually the second one! The first one was a pre-war car (also sold after, but hey) which is so cute that it's named Mickey Mouse (Topolino in italiano 😊)
Still would love an Up to Speed on Isuzu. Peace.
Day 272 of asking Donut to bring old B2B back
Had a 2012 abarth 500 and have driven my fair share of sports cars and that thing was the most fun I've ever had behind the wheel. They say the mini Cooper handles like a go-kart but the abarth really did and it made all the right sounds to just enjoy a spirited drive in the moutians.
I live in Canada and there’s wicked snow right now, every day on my way to work i see some guy in a newer abarth just giving er around the corners every day it’s hilarious. Cool cars people don’t respect much anymore I think they’re awesome sweet video
Getting mine back after the engine got hydrolocked. Got an engine swap that has 10k+ miles less than the original. I miss my little rowdy buddy. Lol
2 years ago I had a chance to test my friends Punto Abarth, great little car! I want to buy one since then.
As the owner of a 2016 500 Abarth. It was nice to get a better understanding of its roots. I love my turbo toaster!
I brought mine this past summer and I love it as my weekend project. Props to the legend and Chrysler for making this 👏
A small muscle with a big punch lol. If I were to make a top gear style film i would use this car in there.
LOL i would watch that a cross country trip in Abarth and 4 people all tightly squeezed in there.
Day "whatevs" of asking for Up to Speed on Austin, BMC or British Leyland!
Can’t remember the last time I’ve seen one of those. They were mostly god awful cars, but they had some gems in there
If it’s day “whatevs” for you, probably should be getting some sun and touching grass.
@@AshTreeDweller bro whats your problem? xD
@@kennorcott7074 with gems do you mean stuff like the austin healey or the mini cooper?
@@flynn_rocky618 no problems here, just a friendly reminder to stop wasting your life 😎👍 Go out there!
Cisitalia gang
Love the calm energy unlike other videos. Since we don't have Abarth in India it gave me feels.
Yooooooooooooo!!!!!!! No freakin wayyyyyyy!!!!!!! I have been waiting for this video for so long🥺😭🙏🏼❤️ thank you so much!!!!!!!!!! I have a 2015 Abarth 500 that has been such a snow beast in Colorado and I can't even imagine getting a regular Fiat 500, had to go straight for the Abarth🦂 perfect video!!!❤️🙏🏼
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As a proud Abarth owner, this car is so amazing and fun to drive. It's still fun to see people shocked at traffic lights when you smoke em
Dude the music in these up to speeds is getting friggin GROOVY!! Sounds like a live band! Love it 👌
Ive had a couple abarth 595s in the family now and i can assure you that they're some of the most fun little go karts of a car you can get, love em to death
My grandpa had a Fiat Abarth 500 5 speed, I learned how to drive stick in it and OMG its such a great little sports car that has a lot of get up a go. It sounds sooo good too
I bought a 2012 Abarth 500 3 years ago and it has been a fun and just overall awesome car. Thanks for the info it makes me appreciate Zippy even more 😄