I made it to 10:12 before I was so sick of your smug negativeness that I couldn't watch any more. You start the video pointing out that this car has a huge fan base. It might have been useful for you to explore why rather than giving us your opinion why that fanbase must be wrong. You completely miss the point of the car, the reason why people love it and why it's different to most anything else on the road.
I would love it, genuinely, if you could explain what you think the appeal of the car is. To me I think it's the looks and easy customisation, but there are other cars which have that and drive/go better for the money
JayEmm on Cars a used abarth 595 competitione is like 13k for a nice one... do not think you can have much more fun in a car then that, give me a few examples if i'am wrong
JayEmm on Cars well there is a big problem with a lot of those cars... almost all of them have big engines and will take massive amaunts of money to insure ... a 1.4L with 130hp doesnt kost that much on a younger age, btw many of those cars ... you would not be able to get those unless they would have lots and lots of miles
I suspect Abarth 595 insurance is probably not super cheap either, as they are driven and crashed by young people. The Renault Clio Sport models suffered the same issue. I'd say a Clio 200 is much better value than the 595 too
Bit negative all of this. A lot of the things you call out are what a young person and car enthusiast would generally call...cool. Think you basically miss the point of it really- like someone reviewing a lotus saying, “but why is the boot so small?!?! Where will I put all the shopping!?! Rubbish!” Agreed on 5speed, seating position, low rent interior. I don’t think you can really fairly compare to mini, a mini is way more expensive especially by the time you’ve optioned it up... so then we’re in the classic realms of new vs second hand. Maybe the new fiesta st is more similarly priced and there I do think you get a bit more value for money, but just not as much overall style and bits that bring you joy (e.g. dual exit exhaust with a great sound). Depends what you want I think. Overall just cheer up, don’t have to be so down on everything!
I just give honest opinions, I just didnt gel with this car. The issue too is even stuff like the Biposto at 30K has many of the same problems. And a MINI is a bit more expensive, but if you can afford one of these you can afford the MINI. And they feel twice as expensive
I agree with you Jay.. I had a go in one and wasn't impressed. Def a "hair dressers" car. Maybe were just getting a bit old and cranky, but everyone has there own opinion,. I don't agree with everything you say in previous reviews but I do with this one 👍 Looking forward to your next upload!!
“ hair dresser’s car” it’s 2018. Are we still evoking thinly vailed stereotypes. As for you Jay. You don’t get the car, that’s ok I don’t get Porsches but where I would part company with you is belittling others who do love this car. Most Porsches don’t do it for me, but I certainly get why they do it for others.
I don't think I am belittling people who buy this car, and there are plenty of reasons why people would buy one - but it doesn't work for me, and I thought it would drive better. As i said in the video I still don't really like the new MINI, but i "get" why petrolheads buy them, they are a lot of fun to drive. This wasn't for me
I respect your opinion, but i respectfully disagree with it.🤣 My farther is in his late 50's. He purchased one in stunning legends blue and his words. "I feel like I have that first car feeling and I've just past my test" am sure not many cars can make someone feel that way. I have to say I think it's a fabulous little car. Full of character and charm, in a sea of bland boring pcp machines. It's certainly not perfect, seat is too high, the lack of a 6th gear etc etc. But for how it makes you feel, I think it's up there as a real charmer. Good honest review as always Jay 😉👍
Walter Melonz im 51 and would get another of these. I dont do many miles, but they are still great on the motorway if needed. Character and personality in a car is more important than supposed image in a German car. I had an Audi A1, hated the image after a few weeks and got rid.
@@oddities-whatnot I also tried a modern Audi, first one after early noughties - an S-Line A3. I could not believe just how boring they have been able to make it. It's a real accomplishment. Abarth is not an awesome car by any stretch though. The reason why we all love it so much is not because it is great - it's because how boring and uninvolving cars of today are.
You are right there's a ton of things that could be better, I always say to people you sit on the car not in it. I bought one because it has a loud exhaust, with a boost gauge fitted as standard, (and the body coloured dashboard). I think the important bit is that you can take it to its performance limit fairly easily, which is within the ability of most drivers and that's why it appeals to me. So I put up with all its problems and drive round them. Forza Abarth!
Hmm, interesting...I drove the 695 and thought it was an absolute riot...aside from the cheap feeling interior (forgivable) and slightly too high driving position...It felt quick, and the lively rear end I thought was great as it gave the car some real on and off throttle adjustability... My friend’s girlfriend has a 595 with about 160 horse powers, and she absolutely loves it... Of course, reviews are very subjective, and for all I wouldn’t buy one of these with my own money, mainly because I enjoy having more than 4 cylinders and I prefer bigger cars...I can totally see why so many people really love them... I agree on the Mini though, I don’t get them either...
Simon George funny you just replied. I sold my abarth and got an Alfa 4C but just picked up another fiat the day before yesterday cause I was missing it! Haha
@@oddities-whatnot not sure about the sound. I bought an R56 JCW over an 595. I think the R56 sounded much better. But the 595 does sound great with the upgraded exhaust Fiat do
*LOL just seen the video now mate. I think there’s definitely some points I agree with you on but also a lot that I don’t. Either way I respect everyone’s opinion but I feel I should do a reaction to this video haha, oh and Hi mate, I was watching :)*
True, for the money, you could get a better specced, better quality German hatch or even saloon, however, it's subjective, like my better half, for the same money, she'll go for, small, cute and stylish everytime. Hence I now have a 2012 cooper and a 595 on the drive, the 595 is mine, being the 6ft challenger 2 tank commander I am, I love it, bought after watching stefs awesome BEEEAST!
I must say, Jay, I really respect your honesty in these reviews. Even as a (non-owner) Abarth 500 mild fan, I totally respect your opinion on it. But it's better you speak your mind because it gives your shining reviews proper weight and substance. I do follow car bloggers and vloggers but also know that they kinda have to say mostly good things or they won't find themselves flown to next year's test drive in Portugal for [example] press event again. Keep up the honesty, even in the difficult vicinity of the owners! When I test drove a top spec Abarth 500 with black leather seats, upgraded sound system, sunroof and pearlescent white paint (7000 pounds for a 40k car relatively new still) it really made sense as a proper contender. I wasn't blown away by anything in particular but even the flaws were part of the unique character - even the high driving position! Plus I did drive it like I'd stolen it on brilliant tight, bendy roads. Perhaps another day on better, warm roads from another perspective it'd do a better job of charming you. Keep up the good work!
Thanks Jimmy. You are very right about what you say, when I started the channel I knew I had to be honest with negative things, otherwise people would never believe your positives!
I've got some nice cars including a Lotus Evora and a Porsche 991.2. We bought an Abarth Pista for the misses but we sold it after one year to buy a bigger car. And that... is my biggest, car related, regret ever. I even tried to buy it back! My god... I really miss our Abarth. It is not a particulary good car. But it has character and gives you an incredible sense of occasion! Love it! And my next purchase will be an Abarth for sure.
I have a Pista too and they are probably best value for money out of the whole range. Having the bigger turbo with a bigger kick also increases the drama. Maybe on this review the tyres weren't the best; I don't find the back end stepping out on mine very often and once you learn to have some confidence in it that's when you really get the most driving pleasure from it.
You know within the first few seconds of the video how it's going to turn out. The look of derision on his face and the tone of voice say it all. You look like somebody has just asked you to unblock a toilet after they filled it with the after effects of a bad curry. 😉 It was the same in the Corsa VXR. I'm not a fan of the Abarth 500 or the VXR either, but you really need to change your style when it comes to cars you don't like... especially if it belongs to a viewer!
Agree on your point but I like Jay's open no bullsh*t approach unlike other reviewer's/journos. I am considering a car for my wife, a small hatchback that is fun for her that won't cost the earth to buy or run, so I am considering the 595. The lack of steering feel and turbo lag would annoy me too. I have driven a regular Fiat 500 and know about the soft bouncy suspension, but this review seems to suggest the Abarth has fixed this. Good job Jay!
The best driving fun ive experienced since foolishly selling my 1968 Morris 1071 Cooper S. The latest Abarth 595, may not be the quickest hot hatch, or the best handling car on the road, but none of that seems to matter when your sitting in that ridiculously tall driving seat, Monza exhaust throwing out its great sound. An Abarth is all about driving fun, and its worth its weight in gold for the rewarding driving experience it offers.
Your missing the point! It’s a fun cool little Italian trainer shoe ! It’s supposed to be quirky and fun! Maybe you was having a bad day when you reviewed this! And for a 1.4 a 5 speed is fine get a grip it’s fun
Real music Real life I got a new one in 2015 and did hundreds of miles in a week up Scotland. Five speed box on the motorway, only doing 2750rpm at 70mph so no problem. People forget that hot hatches with 6 gears have short gearing. An Audi S1 with bigger engine and 6 speed box is doing about the same RPM at 70 in 6th.
I think you are a bit too big to enjoy a small car like the 500, as you'll never really be comfortable inside one and this will make you irritable. The 500 Abarth isn't really aimed at someone like you & that's why you don't get it. Mini is a wider car with more room.
I don't see the fuss about wanting to sit super low in cars. What's the point in barely being able to see over the steering wheel? If you want a sense of speed from being an inch off the ground go drive a go kart.
Sitting low in the car doesnt always mean poor visibility. It helps give a sensation of a low centre of gravity which gives me a lot more confidence in the car. To me, a high seating position is for vans and 4x4s
Here is the odd thing. I totally respect JayEmms view . It’s his opinion and his own. I’m in my 60s, have been fortunate to have owned lots of cars, from Cayman S to Caterham , via Alfa 147gta . My current vehicle is a Mazda MX5 rf 2l 183hp. After 1.5 years ownership of the Mazda I’m still not sure about it. It’s like a grown up Caterham designed for a wet climate. I would purchase another 147gta in a heartbeat apart from the fact that my local (ish) Alfa guru who totally understood these amazing vehicles has shut down, the Porsche Cayman or 996 holds some attraction but sadly they are way to “German:”. Having owned 2 Abarths in the past, the latter being a 180 (Italian) hp Competizione , the only car that I would consider replacing the Mazda would be an Abarth 595 with as much factory hp as I could afford . As for prices, to ask 24k for these cars is madness, despite the fact, in my view, they are rather wonderful in today’s world of bland generic cars. I suspect your drive was not the best , but each to his or her own . By way of background info I was brought up on fast Fast Fiats including 128sl coupe , Punto GT turbo and coupe 20v turbo,. All in their own special if flawed vehicles . Anyway keep up the good work 👍
17 minutes of negativity does not make a good review. One of the most diverse hot hatches out there and you manged to make it seem like a miserable experience. Comparing this car to a Mini or a BMW or even your old Alfa? Seems like you missed the point of this car. Just my opinion though.
Maybe it'd handle better in his world, if he ate less pies. Ours is ordered, and is being delivered in 9 weeks - we fell in love with it, about 30 secs into the test drive.
Plenty of other manufacturers make cars that handle just fine with my fat arse sat in them. It's a car that can generate smiles in the right situation, certainly modified - they do look good. And it will be interesting to know how you get on with it after some period of time. My sister loves her 500, but it is full of problems
Heh, touché! :D Anyway, the dealer gave us another update (you're their best friend when they've taken a fist-full of Queen heads from you), and car is currently being screwed together, they're actually saying ETD is August 13th now, so exactly 8 weeks. By all means, I'll letcha know how it works out for us, might even knock a video or two together as well x :)
Those are some very good reasons to like it, the ownership experience of cars is often forgotten but the Abarth crowd seem great. Not that they'll be sending me a Christmas card of course
JayEmm on Cars mine was the Mk1 mars red. 100% reliable when I had it but you’re right, the bills can add up especially for body work which is why I got rid.
I rented a 595 last time I visited Bologna. It was one of the best (fun) car I have ever driven. You review an agile hot hatch on a boring road... Next time you do a review on Roll Royce and bring it to a mountain road, and trash about how it won't turn going downhill...
As a Fiat 500... it's a fashion item but its critical dimensions prevent it from being anything other than a stylish cute town car . Good factual review although Abarth 595 owners will not agree
The earlier panda 100hp came with a 6 speed but this was because it was naturally aspirated and so benefitted from short ratios. The Abarth probably benefits from the longer ratios with it's turbo. 🤔 Don't own one, just a guess.
You clearly don't understand this car, it is meant to be fun, like a go kart for the road, it clearly wasn't made for you and some of your points are just ridiculous, also, with no offense meant, you really aren't the size of person meant for this car, unfortunately.
Several people have raised the point, to which I say poppycock. I fit in and thorougjly enjoyed a narrow bodied Caterham. I used to own an Elise. My size and enjoyment of this car are unrelated. The car is NOTHING like a go Kart. NOTHING. A Go Kart is mid engined, and you sit on the floor.
I’m on my first Abarth after a plethora of Renaultsports (the best hot hatches, right?). I really struggled after trying a few different variants over the years to plunge for one. However, the new competizione with performance pack is the one to go and have a go in. Different turbo, lightweight wheels, carbon fibre backed sport seats, 180bhp and an all important LSD. It’s a whole lot of fun. I’ll get an up to date review as had it 2 yrs now
Just because you are a car critic doesn't mean all you must do is criticise. I have had loads of hot hatches ( Renault Sports, Audi S3, WRX etc etc) and nothing makes me smile like this car- even when I walk past it on the street. It is not perfect, if you want soulless competence buy a Golf or Polo GTI, however if you want the coolest car in the carpark, the one that makes you giggle and you're the sort of person that can overlook 'quirks' ( hideous turning circle, cheapish plastics) , then I bet you'd be wrapt with one. I even love the Dualogic!
JayEmm on Cars have you ever tried (or will you ever try) a saxo vts or 106 gti 16v? Under the chav look there is a real drivers car. Here in italy most of them are converted to "street legal, eheh" n2 to groupA rally cars. On a straight they can keep up with abarth to about 180hp but the fun is in the bends
You are the wrong type of guy to review this .....its a fun quirky car not a Porsche Cayman ...you are missing the point totally . You might of learned more spending a day with the fans
Completely agree for the most parts. I was test driving the 595 abarths and a couple of cooper s/jcw. I felt so cramped in the 595, I was coming out of a swift sport and I prefer the swift over the 595 in some regards. The 595 is arguably better to look at and has a much better exhaust note. But the performance and comfort is the reason why I chose my R56 JCW
Test drove one, can see the fun, sounds great, quirky characterful car. Overall the suspension was just too harsh in my opinion, it was a deal breaker. Would probably be OK if it wasn't for everyday use on UK pot holes. Have to say, it felt more unique than the Fiesta but the latter cars handling wipes the floor. Good to see your honest opinion. I can see how you wouldn't rate it against other cars. Yet I think the strength of the Abarth is its individuality and relatively low running costs. Its defiantly got something about it and that is what makes it appealing, a break from the norm. I think the fact it isn't as plush and ergonomically sound as others in its class add to a more raw driving experience. Judging by the large fan base it commands, that is a pull.
I'm seriously thinking about buying a 595, I've watched lot of videos, this is the first one I came across with this negative opinion but I really gotta say that you Jayemm I think haven't said anything that actually is wrong!... Good and honest review good onya!... now, because I'm coming from one of the best hot hatches in the history of them, the Clio 182 Cup I gotta say I've got second thoughts about buying this Abarth. Thanks mate!
My favourite hot hatch has always been Renault 5 Turbo, i just liked how silly it looked. Never actually driven a hot hatch though myself. All the cars i have owned for the past 10 years have had 2 seats. 1 for me and 1 for my shopping :)
I love the look of Abarths and they fit with my tastes, having owned 3 original Austin minis (inc a van) and a swift sport 1st gen. It’s a marmite car this. I liked your review as I learnt there’s no 6th gear, turbo can lag and the back end didn’t inspire confidence. These 3 points would potentially put me off buying it but I still love the looks. Maybe I’m confident enough in my sexuality to drive ‘hairdressers’ cars? LOL.
I could of bought pretty much any car from a cheap runaround to a mustang and being a biker with one of the most powerful bikes ever made it takes a lot for any car to get me even remotely interested but i love my 595 Competizione
JayEmm on Cars the sound was a big selling point but out of all the cars i test drove its the one that felt the most bike like, i just gel with it better than the others i tried.
Got to be honest I totally agree I’m afraid. Drove one and it felt like a shopping trolley. Punto (based) was a little more direct and slightly better feel
I’ve never seen a negative review on this car. I’m sorry but I respectfully disagree with all your comments. This car is referred to as a new old mini it is massively fun and without the stupid costs from German manufactures, also this car isn’t aimed at people like you (by that I mean your age you will not have to worry about things like insurance costs etc) this is a great car and thus why has a hue community you strike me as the type to enjoy a bmw 320D and find that car ‘fun’.
There are plenty of people out there with bad things to say about all cars. Every car cannot be the same for every person. There's also lots of crap cars with massive communities behind them, because it is popular does not make it good. But the Abarth crowd generally seem like a good lot. I haven't seen you comment on any of my other videos, so I'd suggest having a look through those to see what I find fun - it's a broad selection of cars, some surprising, some not.
I respect your opinion and you make great points but I think maybe you’ve been spoilt through the cars you have driven and owned but still top notch stuff as always! Maybe you could get a go in a up gti? Similar to this and the Adam s you reviewed a while ago but at a more affordable and insurable for young drivers?
I think a drive in the Competizione version would have resulted in a better opinion of the car. With 4 pot Brembos and Koni suspension its a lot more composed on the road!
Owned an Abarth 500 15 plate for about half a year and no it isn't perfect, it has just as much Italian quirkyness as possible, but here's the thing, being that I've worked in the industry for a while I've had the luxury of driving many different hot hatches over the years and explaining why I bought an Abarth over a Fiesta ST is easy, the ST feels very grounded in reality, it's pretty much exactly what everyone expects from Ford, for every day driving it's a reasonable practical car to own and it's impeccably easy to drive, may perhaps be one of the more refined feeling hot hatches I've ever driven, it encompasses what a lot of modern hot hatches are. But I feel the Abarth encompasses what a lot of hot hatches were, cheap, ridiculous, unrefined, loud and most importantly, fun to drive.
Abarths are a horrible car to buy new! Abarths are an excellent car to buy used! Our 2013 with 50k miles, one owner car, with 3 year extended warranty, tax/tag/title, dealer fees, included, added debt protection (if car is totaled, the loan balance is covered); all for $12k USD! Now the Abarth becomes allot more attractive ;)
Ive driven an Abarth 500 for a month now, and let me say my honest opinion, since the cars can't be too different: Handbrake is farther forward than the handbrake. Im not entirely sure how you manage to grab the rear side of your seat when the handbrake is literally in the middle. Lack of experience for the back end: yes. The back end is very stable for me, I like to whip around roundabouts with it. It grips the road like Republicans grip the 2A (ITS A JOKE AAAAA) Steering has no dead area on mine, the Sport mode is very very sensitive and is very responsive and it goes where it feels like its going to go Did you seriously just complain about the door handles? They double as locks on mine, you tug on them and they unlock the doors. Kind I will agree with the 5 speed gearbox, it really needs a 6th gear. I feel choked on the highway knowing I can't shift up. About the Turbo PSI gauge, yeah its in a stupid spot, but on LH drive variants they have it neatly tucked between the steering column and the driver said vent. And yeah, that plastic on the dash is really bad. It matches the exterior paint on the car, so I bought a black one I seriously can't understand why you said all that negative stuff. It has its downfalls but it excels and most everything. Maybe its just what I wanted so its what I got.
Regarding the handbrake, you will probably find it was an issue for me because of the RHD layout - they dont move it between them I suspect so in LHD it is probably fine.
After 3 minutes of video I can tell that you understand jackshit about cars or healthy eating. Understand the feeling and the purpose to those cars. First make an effort, then you can talk about everything you want.
JayEmm on Cars go see the other comments. But I think that none of them address the real issue, witch is, you not eating enough greens. Start with an healthy breakfast and then continue throughout the day to eat small "meals" or pieces of fruit. That way you won't be a stupid ass**** that gets to be salty on a TH-cam video directed to an audience that think 100% differently than you. That's asking the internet to be true with you. And the audacity that you have towards me? Did you really think you could win?! 🤣🤣🤣 Listen here boy. Before judging someone don't expose yourself by being a cunt, if you had the idea that you were going to bully a kid, you couldn't be more wrong 😂😂😂😂 Do everyone a favor and stop eating all our food Oh right, I almost forgot to explain. Imagine that you buy a sandwich for 10$, but the guy from across the street has bigger ones with the same price. That doesn't mean that they are better in taste or quality. Can you relate to that? I bet you don't, and that you always go for the king size one
Hang on, so you're saying that two items which might appear similar but have different prices, mean they might also be different quality? So Dan's Super Subs (Woodland Hills, LA), selling a foot long philly cheese steak sandwich for $13 MIGHT be selling a better sandwich than Subway? In the same way I guess the MINI costs a little bit more than an Abarth 595, but is a LOT nicer. Wow, now it seems so clear! One other thing, have you finished with those fries?
This is not a review, this is a case for the prosecution. Despite this bloke's relentless snivelling there are actually dozens of reviews available both on TH-cam and elsewhere, some enthusiastic and some sceptical but none as clearly commenced with a curled lip as this one.
At the end of the day, it’s all down to taste. This isn’t to your taste which is fair enough, but I hate German cars for the fact that they look boring and are just too engineered (also they have no character IMO). Driving for me is about having fun on the way to work. Yes I own an abarth. It’s a standard 500 abarth that’s tuned to over 200bhp which is still on the IHI turbo. Abarths have bags of character and always turn heads. People don’t buy these for practicality, they buy these because they are awesome little things. Since when has anything Italian ever been reliable and practical? Who cares...it’s about enjoying the moment and it sounds a lot better when someone says; so what do you drive? ...An abarth. Sounds a lot better than saying a Ford, Vauxhall, BMW, Mini etc. Plus it’s only a 1.4. Name me any German cars on the market with the same engine size that offers performance the abarth has...None. Stop comparing it to cars with bigger engines. That’s like comparing apples and oranges. Sorry I do respect your opinion but you are wrong about the abarth.
Your supposed to drive around italy in boat shoes and a little Italian hat. Then stop for a short black coffee at the nearest cafe. Then back to that mini van seating position you begin beeping the horn at everyone saying ciao ciao!!
Oh Dear, had really made up your mind before you started didn't you? I got as far as 9:30 before I pulled the plug. And sadly I won't be watching any more. ps Ex-mini driver & possible Abarth driver.
My fun car is a Porsche 996 C4 Aerokit, my daily is a Fiat 500 Twin Air S 0.9L, the wife has a Fiat 500 1.2L Lounge, my friend has an Abarth 595 Competizione and my other friends Mrs has a Fiat 500 1.2L Popular.. I know a good fun car, and I regularly thrash a 911 down B roads, but the Fiat 500 is a joy I love them, but I think the standard car is far better than the Abarth 595, the 595 is just sketchy and well, just, under engineered.
Its obviously not a car for somebody like you. I don't own one but I understand the passion and beauty that these Italian cars have been designed with. It's different for and quirky sure, and you either love it or hate it. I had a Fiat Uno Turbo, and there were many things about it that was quirky or weird, but that's exactly the reason why I loved it.
He is trying hard to find things he hates. Anyway. Only short-legged people complain about the seat height. When you have long legs, you can sit comfortably in this small car, while you cannot in low sports cars. The sixth gear in other cars is usually extremely tall, so you can only use it for cruising. And please consider the price of an Abarth... at least in Germany you only get a VW Polo 1.0 three pot with 65 hp for the price of a base Abarth, adjusted to extras. Btw, the old 911 had a heavy steering, too. And they started to pull at 4000 rpm. Means, the ones that actually made fun.
I'm not trying to, I just am. Anyone can complain about the seat height - it is too high! Sixth gear varies in cars, it is not always a cruising gear (eg. Honda Type Rs). I will agree it appears good value compared to a Polo from a performance perspective. And the 911 had heavy steering yes, but it was not non linear like this
I realize that my reply appears more negative than I intended to :) The Abarth is no perfect car and I sincerely recommend to anyone intending to buy one to drive at least a few miles with it. I get similar fire when I bash the '73 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7, which is a cool car, but it doesn't drive as good as people expect. The engine is always leaking oil, hair crasks are common with the 2.7, the successing 3.0 is of better build quality. But tell that to a petrol head...
TRULY Love your raw and Honest review. Exactly what we want to hear. 'Subscribed' ! Apart from the 'Mini', is there anything else that 'compares' to the Abarth please? (I am contemplating buying one) Regards.
I know you're not a hot hatch fan James a lotus nut myself neither am I. But I've heard the old clio 182 trophy is really quite special. Perhaps you need to do a review 🤗
Speaking reviewers, I lost faith with the majority when the latest Astra came out, and all the reviewers gushed over its handling. Being a gtc owner, I thought they had used a similar set up, on the new 5 door. So when mine went in for a service a was happy to see a 1.4 turbo new astra. The interior is a big step up, but it's handling is miles behind the gtc. I was so let down. The small 1.4 petrol unit was quite decent, very "peppy" for its size. Would suit most astra owners.
Jay, the 6-speed (or lack of it) is not a matter of choice by Fiat, it's often impossible to get a 6-speed that can take some torque in a tiny city car without sacrificing a practical turning circle, especially if the car has 'sporty' tires (very much the case for the Abarth). If there was a way, don't you think they would have put a 6-speed under the bonnet before mounting third party shocks, brakes, exhaust systems etc you can find on all the versions of the 500 Abarth…? I love seeing a 595 or 695, I think it looks fabulous but it's just not worth the money, looking at the performance on paper.
JayEmm on Cars Ok, now compare dimensions, compare turning circles and read how mini owners 'LOL' about the turning circle of their car. Also, read how 595 owners LOL about their turning circle: imagine adding another meter to the fiat circle... If you dont understand, open the bonnet of any compact city car and watch where the gearbox ends. Turn the wheels and thou shall see the light...
If you want a bad turning circle, try an MG ZS. Abysmal. But I live with it. I lived in London for five years and drove a big car with a large turning circle. It was fine. Living in the sticks it is now of nearly zero relevance to me. At 12-15k I completely forgive the 5 speed box. But to still have it in the Biposto etc? Not cool. That's a model which should sacrifice practical stuff for handling/performance
JayEmm on Cars . You' right, there's always worse :) . I do suspect Abarth just won't invest the r&d to develop this gearbox and fiat doesn't need it on their 500. In that way, the abarth is a bit like the Esprit... But believe me, you'll have to add up to 3 feet to it's turning circle if you were to install a 6-speed in that tiny car.
A sacrifice I would make. I hope when the 500 platform is replaced they make more room for Abarth to work more magic on it, rather than the limited space they have now
If you're interested in one of these- do go for a test drive (with sport mode on!) and see what you think yourself. I had a USDM 2013 500 Abarth and I loved it more than my Porsche Boxster 986. It's a damn good car. Interior and seating position aren't great (not bad for the price though) but my God is it fun. It has personality like few else... oh, and do yourself a favor and watch the Doug Demuro review;)
Guess which ad played on this one for me :D :D The ad is cool, I have to say, otherwise not my car either, although I think I get the idea. Wish we had real-life photoshop and could reduce it's height to 90% :D
You accept these for what they are. You dont buy one then complain its not got this or that, or could have been different cos of blah blah. Ive had two of them, new. Last one I regret selling. It suited me and my personality perfectly.
JayEmm, when are you going to review the Hyundai i10, 2009 edition. £20 a week to fill up....you can thrash the pituitary glands off it and buy another for a grand if anything goes South. It probably has better steering than the Arbarth and you also have to really work the sweet shifting box mated to that insane 1.2 naturally aspirated beast of an engine. A true gem in the mud, mostly ignored at the time due to the recent banking crisis.
This sort of car is not for everyone and sounds like it’s the same for you. I work where we get a wide range of cars including a 2010 Abarth 500 esseesse and I think it’s a brilliant car to drive, very nippy and handles like a go kart. Yeah the interior is basic but don’t really pay that much attention when you enjoy what it’s built for.
I tried hard to like these too however the seat height, ride and ergonomics (space/steering wheel adjustment/pedals) were not great. It does however have a very tunable motor and looks fantastic. So instead I bought a punto with the same t-jet engine and modified it with the money I saved not buying the abarth. More room, better ergonomics/adjustability and is also a fun Italian car. I get why ppl love the 595 though.
Cletus, you've got to remember, telling the truth has never been a great career move, just ask Jesus. This car is an abomination, and Abarth have prostituted their name in the pursuit of money. I think your review was too kind. However, be prepared for the wrath of the supporters of Barabbas.
Whenever you see a Fiat 500 the first thing you think is girls car as that's the target market for it cute little hand bag on wheels. Making a slight performance version makes no difference to my view. I've driven a few 500 and the abarths and the one thing i took away from it was how cheap everything felt the from the moment you shut the door with tinny sound to the horrible cheap dashboard.
Cool car I have one Steering does seem jaded at slow speed but improves as you get down the road engine is always willing boost gauge is a bit naff but quirky. The love for these cars come from reasonable second hand purchase prices for the smiles given good residual value and vv reasonably priced mods and extras I'm a fan for all the reasons above. Its not perfect but neither is the shirt your wearing 😃
I can't take a video of someone smugly complaining about a strip of red plastic on the interior of a car seriously while they are wearing that shirt, personal taste is personal taste. You're welcome to your view but the smugness of the video was just awful, I couldn't finish. I've owned and driven everything from Ferrari's to Porsche's, Lotus to fast Honda's and when the day comes to move on from my run-around Abarth I'll miss it more than I've missed any other car. Stock with 180bhp it's a blast but the latest engine (out of an F4 car) will take over 205bhp with just an ECU remap, that's 200 bhp in a car that weighs less than the new Alpine. The backend comments are just bazaar.
The CLA45 is a totally different car but is this is the worst car you've ever driven? Would be curious to hear your thoughts on the Abarth 124 that has the same engine, and see if you prefer it over the ND MX5.
In late 2016 I was looking for a new car. My main criteria was to have 'fun' once again and the 595 Competizione (180 ps) was on my list. I test drove two of them and yes, they brought real fun and a big grin to my face but I just couldn't buy one for some of the reasons you mention; seating position far too high, build quality & cheap interior ... etc. The Monza exhaust was brilliant but that much noise could annoy me after a while. For the record I didn't take to the Fiesta ST unlike most people and in the end I bought a Clio RS Trophy - brilliant and much improved over the first (non-Trophy) examples when the EDC gearbox was universally slated. Oh and just for the record I'm much older than JayEmm.
I will admit to being a long time fan of Italian classics so I really want this car to be good. Ive had many makes, and do gravitate to Italian offerings, although largly older offerings. I like 3 pedals, real engine noise from an exhaust not a speaker anddo not subscrive to 1400kg being light.... Why do people love the flawed Abarth? I think its a bit like famous actors...sometimes its the imperfections that make them so interesting. Italian manufacturers more often that not get it right in the styling and drivetrain department..but worry less about where the golf clubs will fit. I admit to wanting one..bad..Im in love with the hillarious contradiction of Abarth. Im not 17...and I can afford a more expensive car...yet I think this could be the vehicle I am looking for. Ive driven fast cars...love them..on a track...usually dull in town. MyFiat 128 makes me smile every time I drive it to work....slow as a wet week..rolly polly...but Ive changed gears 3 time to 60kphr, and spun her to 6500 in each one...sounds fantastic and makes me smile. I get out after 10mins of driving, I feel happy, I walk away and ALWAYS look back. When I get the choice to get in the SQ5 or this...guess what I choose?! Dont missundersrand me here, the SQ5 is a bit of a beast but its an instrument, I dont look back. Im a petrol head looking for a manual town car that looks great, sounds great and is just a little off center, ...The Abarth seems like a contender. High seat, no problem, Ill lower it, crap boost gauge? Ill delete it. Silly fat steering wheel? Yes please. (Numb steering...that could kill it for me) Us buyers need your unbiased, un- sponsored views, keep it up... Now for a test drive to see if the Abarth is a memorable actress or an impostor..
![The Highs and Lows of the Abarth 595 Scorpioneoro [700 mile Road Test]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/MG9xjSCvQKc/mqdefault.jpg)
I made it to 10:12 before I was so sick of your smug negativeness that I couldn't watch any more. You start the video pointing out that this car has a huge fan base. It might have been useful for you to explore why rather than giving us your opinion why that fanbase must be wrong. You completely miss the point of the car, the reason why people love it and why it's different to most anything else on the road.
I would love it, genuinely, if you could explain what you think the appeal of the car is. To me I think it's the looks and easy customisation, but there are other cars which have that and drive/go better for the money
JayEmm on Cars a used abarth 595 competitione is like 13k for a nice one... do not think you can have much more fun in a car then that, give me a few examples if i'am wrong
BMW M135i, E46 M3, Z4M, Lotus Elise, civic EP3, Impreza WRX STI, Porsche Cayman, Boxster, Alfa 147 GTA, Ford Fiesta/Focus ST, Mini JCW...
JayEmm on Cars well there is a big problem with a lot of those cars... almost all of them have big engines and will take massive amaunts of money to insure ... a 1.4L with 130hp doesnt kost that much on a younger age, btw many of those cars ... you would not be able to get those unless they would have lots and lots of miles
I suspect Abarth 595 insurance is probably not super cheap either, as they are driven and crashed by young people. The Renault Clio Sport models suffered the same issue. I'd say a Clio 200 is much better value than the 595 too
Complaining endlessly about this car...calling it “cheap and nasty”...while wearing that shirt. Mmkay.
it really is. I worked on them for a bit and its awful. Especially the door panels.
@@knowyourroleRocky Funny you mention that...have had the drivers door panel off twice in the past 2 weeks. You're right. It sucks.
Bit negative all of this. A lot of the things you call out are what a young person and car enthusiast would generally call...cool. Think you basically miss the point of it really- like someone reviewing a lotus saying, “but why is the boot so small?!?! Where will I put all the shopping!?! Rubbish!”
Agreed on 5speed, seating position, low rent interior.
I don’t think you can really fairly compare to mini, a mini is way more expensive especially by the time you’ve optioned it up... so then we’re in the classic realms of new vs second hand. Maybe the new fiesta st is more similarly priced and there I do think you get a bit more value for money, but just not as much overall style and bits that bring you joy (e.g. dual exit exhaust with a great sound). Depends what you want I think.
Overall just cheer up, don’t have to be so down on everything!
I just give honest opinions, I just didnt gel with this car. The issue too is even stuff like the Biposto at 30K has many of the same problems. And a MINI is a bit more expensive, but if you can afford one of these you can afford the MINI. And they feel twice as expensive
I agree with you Jay.. I had a go in one and wasn't impressed. Def a "hair dressers" car. Maybe were just getting a bit old and cranky, but everyone has there own opinion,. I don't agree with everything you say in previous reviews but I do with this one 👍
Looking forward to your next upload!!
Thanks Chris, we don't all want the same thing in a car - world would be boring if we did
“ hair dresser’s car” it’s 2018. Are we still evoking thinly vailed stereotypes. As for you Jay. You don’t get the car, that’s ok I don’t get Porsches but where I would part company with you is belittling others who do love this car. Most Porsches don’t do it for me, but I certainly get why they do it for others.
I don't think I am belittling people who buy this car, and there are plenty of reasons why people would buy one - but it doesn't work for me, and I thought it would drive better. As i said in the video I still don't really like the new MINI, but i "get" why petrolheads buy them, they are a lot of fun to drive. This wasn't for me
Imagine suffering dinner or a vacation with this dude........
I know, what a dick right. His Abarth factory tour was a terrible idea.
Larry R can you share your vid please.
I respect your opinion, but i respectfully disagree with it.🤣
My farther is in his late 50's. He purchased one in stunning legends blue and his words. "I feel like I have that first car feeling and I've just past my test" am sure not many cars can make someone feel that way.
I have to say I think it's a fabulous little car. Full of character and charm, in a sea of bland boring pcp machines.
It's certainly not perfect, seat is too high, the lack of a 6th gear etc etc.
But for how it makes you feel, I think it's up there as a real charmer.
Good honest review as always Jay 😉👍
Thanks for constructive counter opinion!
Walter Melonz im 51 and would get another of these. I dont do many miles, but they are still great on the motorway if needed. Character and personality in a car is more important than supposed image in a German car. I had an Audi A1, hated the image after a few weeks and got rid.
@@oddities-whatnot I also tried a modern Audi, first one after early noughties - an S-Line A3. I could not believe just how boring they have been able to make it. It's a real accomplishment.
Abarth is not an awesome car by any stretch though. The reason why we all love it so much is not because it is great - it's because how boring and uninvolving cars of today are.
You are right there's a ton of things that could be better, I always say to people you sit on the car not in it. I bought one because it has a loud exhaust, with a boost gauge fitted as standard, (and the body coloured dashboard). I think the important bit is that you can take it to its performance limit fairly easily, which is within the ability of most drivers and that's why it appeals to me. So I put up with all its problems and drive round them. Forza Abarth!
Hmm, interesting...I drove the 695 and thought it was an absolute riot...aside from the cheap feeling interior (forgivable) and slightly too high driving position...It felt quick, and the lively rear end I thought was great as it gave the car some real on and off throttle adjustability...
My friend’s girlfriend has a 595 with about 160 horse powers, and she absolutely loves it...
Of course, reviews are very subjective, and for all I wouldn’t buy one of these with my own money, mainly because I enjoy having more than 4 cylinders and I prefer bigger cars...I can totally see why so many people really love them...
I agree on the Mini though, I don’t get them either...
I grab the keys for my abarth over my 997. It's no 911 or anything but it's great fun to drive!
Healthy Human they are great fun for cheap money new. No other small hatchbacks sound like an Abarth. Thats the big winner for me
Simon George funny you just replied. I sold my abarth and got an Alfa 4C but just picked up another fiat the day before yesterday cause I was missing it! Haha
@@oddities-whatnot not sure about the sound. I bought an R56 JCW over an 595. I think the R56 sounded much better. But the 595 does sound great with the upgraded exhaust Fiat do
*LOL just seen the video now mate. I think there’s definitely some points I agree with you on but also a lot that I don’t. Either way I respect everyone’s opinion but I feel I should do a reaction to this video haha, oh and Hi mate, I was watching :)*
Stef ABtv dude! You are awesome and funny! Keep up your good work!!! 💪💪💪💪
True, for the money, you could get a better specced, better quality German hatch or even saloon, however, it's subjective, like my better half, for the same money, she'll go for, small, cute and stylish everytime. Hence I now have a 2012 cooper and a 595 on the drive, the 595 is mine, being the 6ft challenger 2 tank commander I am, I love it, bought after watching stefs awesome BEEEAST!
Stef, bet you don't agree with his review of the A45 AMG either? 😂
Lol Stef and I have had a couple of discussions about his new car
Well said. It's a subjective OPINION.
'it spends so much time trying to be desperately retro and cool that it forgets to be good'
Have you seen the shirt you're wearing Mr Blobby?
Blobby blobby blobby!
Martin Duffy A poet in our midst
ImSJPC im dead lool
I must say, Jay, I really respect your honesty in these reviews. Even as a (non-owner) Abarth 500 mild fan, I totally respect your opinion on it. But it's better you speak your mind because it gives your shining reviews proper weight and substance. I do follow car bloggers and vloggers but also know that they kinda have to say mostly good things or they won't find themselves flown to next year's test drive in Portugal for [example] press event again. Keep up the honesty, even in the difficult vicinity of the owners!
When I test drove a top spec Abarth 500 with black leather seats, upgraded sound system, sunroof and pearlescent white paint (7000 pounds for a 40k car relatively new still) it really made sense as a proper contender. I wasn't blown away by anything in particular but even the flaws were part of the unique character - even the high driving position! Plus I did drive it like I'd stolen it on brilliant tight, bendy roads. Perhaps another day on better, warm roads from another perspective it'd do a better job of charming you.
Keep up the good work!
Thanks Jimmy. You are very right about what you say, when I started the channel I knew I had to be honest with negative things, otherwise people would never believe your positives!
I've got some nice cars including a Lotus Evora and a Porsche 991.2.
We bought an Abarth Pista for the misses but we sold it after one year to buy a bigger car.
And that... is my biggest, car related, regret ever. I even tried to buy it back!
My god... I really miss our Abarth. It is not a particulary good car. But it has character and gives you an incredible sense of occasion!
Love it! And my next purchase will be an Abarth for sure.
I have a Pista too and they are probably best value for money out of the whole range. Having the bigger turbo with a bigger kick also increases the drama. Maybe on this review the tyres weren't the best; I don't find the back end stepping out on mine very often and once you learn to have some confidence in it that's when you really get the most driving pleasure from it.
You know within the first few seconds of the video how it's going to turn out. The look of derision on his face and the tone of voice say it all. You look like somebody has just asked you to unblock a toilet after they filled it with the after effects of a bad curry. 😉 It was the same in the Corsa VXR. I'm not a fan of the Abarth 500 or the VXR either, but you really need to change your style when it comes to cars you don't like... especially if it belongs to a viewer!
But I liked the Corsa??
Agree on your point but I like Jay's open no bullsh*t approach unlike other reviewer's/journos. I am considering a car for my wife, a small hatchback that is fun for her that won't cost the earth to buy or run, so I am considering the 595. The lack of steering feel and turbo lag would annoy me too. I have driven a regular Fiat 500 and know about the soft bouncy suspension, but this review seems to suggest the Abarth has fixed this. Good job Jay!
you don't get the point of this cars: sorry, mate. driving a 595 turismo myself: i can tell you: these cars are pure fun!
I guess fun comes in different ways for different people
The best driving fun ive experienced since foolishly selling my 1968 Morris 1071 Cooper S.
The latest Abarth 595, may not be the quickest hot hatch, or the best handling car on the road, but none of that seems to matter when your sitting in that ridiculously tall driving seat, Monza exhaust throwing out its great sound.
An Abarth is all about driving fun, and its worth its weight in gold for the rewarding driving experience it offers.
Snow in June?! 😂
Good honest review and not afraid to express the negatives unlike some TH-camrs
Shot the original review in March, release got delayed for a few reasons!
Your missing the point! It’s a fun cool little Italian trainer shoe ! It’s supposed to be quirky and fun! Maybe you was having a bad day when you reviewed this! And for a 1.4 a 5 speed is fine get a grip it’s fun
I think he is too big for the car so he is having a bad day lol
Also the Abarth has to have the 5 speed as 6 wouldn't fit apparently. From experience 6 speed wrecks all your ratios.
Real music Real life I got a new one in 2015 and did hundreds of miles in a week up Scotland. Five speed box on the motorway, only doing 2750rpm at 70mph so no problem. People forget that hot hatches with 6 gears have short gearing. An Audi S1 with bigger engine and 6 speed box is doing about the same RPM at 70 in 6th.
My dad just bought a 718 Cayman and a 595 and he said that the fiat is more fun than the Porsche
Also, how in the hell is a 6th gear 'more racy'?
I think you are a bit too big to enjoy a small car like the 500, as you'll never really be comfortable inside one and this will make you irritable.
The 500 Abarth isn't really aimed at someone like you & that's why you don't get it.
Mini is a wider car with more room.
I fit in a narrow bodied Caterham and enjoyed that car. My size and my enjoyment of this car are entirely unrelated
I don't see the fuss about wanting to sit super low in cars. What's the point in barely being able to see over the steering wheel? If you want a sense of speed from being an inch off the ground go drive a go kart.
Sitting low in the car doesnt always mean poor visibility. It helps give a sensation of a low centre of gravity which gives me a lot more confidence in the car. To me, a high seating position is for vans and 4x4s
Here is the odd thing. I totally respect JayEmms view . It’s his opinion and his own. I’m in my 60s, have been fortunate to have owned lots of cars, from Cayman S to Caterham , via Alfa 147gta . My current vehicle is a Mazda MX5 rf 2l 183hp. After 1.5 years ownership of the Mazda I’m still not sure about it. It’s like a grown up Caterham designed for a wet climate. I would purchase another 147gta in a heartbeat apart from the fact that my local (ish) Alfa guru who totally understood these amazing vehicles has shut down, the Porsche Cayman or 996 holds some attraction but sadly they are way to “German:”. Having owned 2 Abarths in the past, the latter being a 180 (Italian) hp Competizione , the only car that I would consider replacing the Mazda would be an Abarth 595 with as much factory hp as I could afford . As for prices, to ask 24k for these cars is madness, despite the fact, in my view, they are rather wonderful in today’s world of bland generic cars. I suspect your drive was not the best , but each to his or her own . By way of background info I was brought up on fast Fast Fiats including 128sl coupe , Punto GT turbo and coupe 20v turbo,. All in their own special if flawed vehicles . Anyway keep up the good work 👍
17 minutes of negativity does not make a good review. One of the most diverse hot hatches out there and you manged to make it seem like a miserable experience. Comparing this car to a Mini or a BMW or even your old Alfa? Seems like you missed the point of this car. Just my opinion though.
The point of the car is, as you say, that it felt fun to drive - but I just never felt that. I guess I have different criteria for fun.
Maybe it'd handle better in his world, if he ate less pies.
Ours is ordered, and is being delivered in 9 weeks - we fell in love with it, about 30 secs into the test drive.
Plenty of other manufacturers make cars that handle just fine with my fat arse sat in them.
It's a car that can generate smiles in the right situation, certainly modified - they do look good. And it will be interesting to know how you get on with it after some period of time.
My sister loves her 500, but it is full of problems
Heh, touché!
:D
Anyway, the dealer gave us another update (you're their best friend when they've taken a fist-full of Queen heads from you), and car is currently being screwed together, they're actually saying ETD is August 13th now, so exactly 8 weeks.
By all means, I'll letcha know how it works out for us, might even knock a video or two together as well x
:)
Good luck with it!
The point is these cars started life as city fun cars. So the challenge is breaking the mound. That is the true origins of petrol heads.
I do acknowledge the car's humble origins in the video
I love my 595 Turismo. It’s got soul which is rare nowadays. It sounds great, the owners are awesome and it’s cheap to mod. Love it
Those are some very good reasons to like it, the ownership experience of cars is often forgotten but the Abarth crowd seem great. Not that they'll be sending me a Christmas card of course
Wow a Clio V6, there's a car. I once met a guy who spent nearly five grand on one in maintenance in one hit
JayEmm on Cars mine was the Mk1 mars red. 100% reliable when I had it but you’re right, the bills can add up especially for body work which is why I got rid.
I drove one and laughed the whole time. Cracking cars. Better than some cars out there for a giggle
I rented a 595 last time I visited Bologna. It was one of the best (fun) car I have ever driven. You review an agile hot hatch on a boring road... Next time you do a review on Roll Royce and bring it to a mountain road, and trash about how it won't turn going downhill...
As a Fiat 500... it's a fashion item but its critical dimensions prevent it from being anything other than a stylish cute town car .
Good factual review although Abarth 595 owners will not agree
The earlier panda 100hp came with a 6 speed but this was because it was naturally aspirated and so benefitted from short ratios.
The Abarth probably benefits from the longer ratios with it's turbo. 🤔 Don't own one, just a guess.
Convinced by this to get one thanks 😊👍
I hope it delivers ;)
@@JayEmmOnCars thank you, all the best
You clearly don't understand this car, it is meant to be fun, like a go kart for the road, it clearly wasn't made for you and some of your points are just ridiculous, also, with no offense meant, you really aren't the size of person meant for this car, unfortunately.
Several people have raised the point, to which I say poppycock. I fit in and thorougjly enjoyed a narrow bodied Caterham. I used to own an Elise. My size and enjoyment of this car are unrelated.
The car is NOTHING like a go Kart. NOTHING. A Go Kart is mid engined, and you sit on the floor.
I’m on my first Abarth after a plethora of Renaultsports (the best hot hatches, right?). I really struggled after trying a few different variants over the years to plunge for one. However, the new competizione with performance pack is the one to go and have a go in. Different turbo, lightweight wheels, carbon fibre backed sport seats, 180bhp and an all important LSD. It’s a whole lot of fun. I’ll get an up to date review as had it 2 yrs now
Just because you are a car critic doesn't mean all you must do is criticise. I have had loads of hot hatches ( Renault Sports, Audi S3, WRX etc etc) and nothing makes me smile like this car- even when I walk past it on the street. It is not perfect, if you want soulless competence buy a Golf or Polo GTI, however if you want the coolest car in the carpark, the one that makes you giggle and you're the sort of person that can overlook 'quirks' ( hideous turning circle, cheapish plastics) , then I bet you'd be wrapt with one. I even love the Dualogic!
Interesting to hear your opinion of these.. shame its as negative as the rest
You mean as negative as all my other opinions, or other reviews of the car in general lol
JayEmm on Cars have you ever tried (or will you ever try) a saxo vts or 106 gti 16v?
Under the chav look there is a real drivers car.
Here in italy most of them are converted to "street legal, eheh" n2 to groupA rally cars. On a straight they can keep up with abarth to about 180hp but the fun is in the bends
You are the wrong type of guy to review this .....its a fun quirky car not a Porsche Cayman ...you are missing the point totally . You might of learned more spending a day with the fans
Got one today , simply love it,
Completely agree for the most parts. I was test driving the 595 abarths and a couple of cooper s/jcw. I felt so cramped in the 595, I was coming out of a swift sport and I prefer the swift over the 595 in some regards. The 595 is arguably better to look at and has a much better exhaust note. But the performance and comfort is the reason why I chose my R56 JCW
Test drove one, can see the fun, sounds great, quirky characterful car. Overall the suspension was just too harsh in my opinion, it was a deal breaker. Would probably be OK if it wasn't for everyday use on UK pot holes. Have to say, it felt more unique than the Fiesta but the latter cars handling wipes the floor. Good to see your honest opinion. I can see how you wouldn't rate it against other cars. Yet I think the strength of the Abarth is its individuality and relatively low running costs. Its defiantly got something about it and that is what makes it appealing, a break from the norm. I think the fact it isn't as plush and ergonomically sound as others in its class add to a more raw driving experience. Judging by the large fan base it commands, that is a pull.
I'm seriously thinking about buying a 595, I've watched lot of videos, this is the first one I came across with this negative opinion but I really gotta say that you Jayemm I think haven't said anything that actually is wrong!... Good and honest review good onya!... now, because I'm coming from one of the best hot hatches in the history of them, the Clio 182 Cup I gotta say I've got second thoughts about buying this Abarth. Thanks mate!
No problem - lot of people disagree with me on these so you really gotta try it
My favourite hot hatch has always been Renault 5 Turbo, i just liked how silly it looked. Never actually driven a hot hatch though myself. All the cars i have owned for the past 10 years have had 2 seats. 1 for me and 1 for my shopping :)
I love the look of Abarths and they fit with my tastes, having owned 3 original Austin minis (inc a van) and a swift sport 1st gen. It’s a marmite car this. I liked your review as I learnt there’s no 6th gear, turbo can lag and the back end didn’t inspire confidence. These 3 points would potentially put me off buying it but I still love the looks. Maybe I’m confident enough in my sexuality to drive ‘hairdressers’ cars? LOL.
I could of bought pretty much any car from a cheap runaround to a mustang and being a biker with one of the most powerful bikes ever made it takes a lot for any car to get me even remotely interested but i love my 595 Competizione
What is it about the comp that does it for you? I must say the Sabelts and exhaust are sexy
JayEmm on Cars the sound was a big selling point but out of all the cars i test drove its the one that felt the most bike like, i just gel with it better than the others i tried.
You have a really nice fan base. Disagreement without being disagreeable. Pretty rare.
I'm lucky with my fans Lew!
Got to be honest I totally agree I’m afraid. Drove one and it felt like a shopping trolley. Punto (based) was a little more direct and slightly better feel
I’ve never seen a negative review on this car. I’m sorry but I respectfully disagree with all your comments. This car is referred to as a new old mini it is massively fun and without the stupid costs from German manufactures, also this car isn’t aimed at people like you (by that I mean your age you will not have to worry about things like insurance costs etc) this is a great car and thus why has a hue community you strike me as the type to enjoy a bmw 320D and find that car ‘fun’.
There are plenty of people out there with bad things to say about all cars. Every car cannot be the same for every person.
There's also lots of crap cars with massive communities behind them, because it is popular does not make it good. But the Abarth crowd generally seem like a good lot.
I haven't seen you comment on any of my other videos, so I'd suggest having a look through those to see what I find fun - it's a broad selection of cars, some surprising, some not.
Just picked up one of these little gems. Funnest car I have ever driven.
I respect your opinion and you make great points but I think maybe you’ve been spoilt through the cars you have driven and owned but still top notch stuff as always!
Maybe you could get a go in a up gti? Similar to this and the Adam s you reviewed a while ago but at a more affordable and insurable for young drivers?
Yes i'd like to hear his thoughts on an Up! GTI. When the 2019 Fiesta ST is out, would like to know what he thinks of that too
I'd love to try both, the Fiesta is supposed to be brilliant
I remember evos group review with this and a panda 100hp against a twingo rs swift sport etc. The panda beat this soundly
I think a drive in the Competizione version would have resulted in a better opinion of the car. With 4 pot Brembos and Koni suspension its a lot more composed on the road!
I think your shirt doesnt deserve an Abarth
Owned an Abarth 500 15 plate for about half a year and no it isn't perfect, it has just as much Italian quirkyness as possible, but here's the thing, being that I've worked in the industry for a while I've had the luxury of driving many different hot hatches over the years and explaining why I bought an Abarth over a Fiesta ST is easy, the ST feels very grounded in reality, it's pretty much exactly what everyone expects from Ford, for every day driving it's a reasonable practical car to own and it's impeccably easy to drive, may perhaps be one of the more refined feeling hot hatches I've ever driven, it encompasses what a lot of modern hot hatches are. But I feel the Abarth encompasses what a lot of hot hatches were, cheap, ridiculous, unrefined, loud and most importantly, fun to drive.
Btw my 2007 R56 had everything go wrong with it, that Prince engine is pure junk and so was my MINI.
Abarths are a horrible car to buy new!
Abarths are an excellent car to buy used!
Our 2013 with 50k miles, one owner car, with 3 year extended warranty, tax/tag/title, dealer fees, included, added debt protection (if car is totaled, the loan balance is covered); all for $12k USD! Now the Abarth becomes allot more attractive ;)
Yup, at that price you can forgive a lot!
you preach everyone has an opinion, then proceed to delete comments...
Lol I haven't deleted any on this video?
JayEmm on Cars yes, you have.
I really haven't, but I can't stop people deleting their own. Is there a comment in particular you are referring to?
It's not the car. It's you.
So I keep being told
Ive driven an Abarth 500 for a month now, and let me say my honest opinion, since the cars can't be too different:
Handbrake is farther forward than the handbrake. Im not entirely sure how you manage to grab the rear side of your seat when the handbrake is literally in the middle.
Lack of experience for the back end: yes. The back end is very stable for me, I like to whip around roundabouts with it. It grips the road like Republicans grip the 2A (ITS A JOKE AAAAA)
Steering has no dead area on mine, the Sport mode is very very sensitive and is very responsive and it goes where it feels like its going to go
Did you seriously just complain about the door handles? They double as locks on mine, you tug on them and they unlock the doors. Kind
I will agree with the 5 speed gearbox, it really needs a 6th gear. I feel choked on the highway knowing I can't shift up.
About the Turbo PSI gauge, yeah its in a stupid spot, but on LH drive variants they have it neatly tucked between the steering column and the driver said vent.
And yeah, that plastic on the dash is really bad. It matches the exterior paint on the car, so I bought a black one
I seriously can't understand why you said all that negative stuff. It has its downfalls but it excels and most everything. Maybe its just what I wanted so its what I got.
Regarding the handbrake, you will probably find it was an issue for me because of the RHD layout - they dont move it between them I suspect so in LHD it is probably fine.
After 3 minutes of video I can tell that you understand jackshit about cars or healthy eating. Understand the feeling and the purpose to those cars. First make an effort, then you can talk about everything you want.
Explain it to me
JayEmm on Cars go see the other comments. But I think that none of them address the real issue, witch is, you not eating enough greens. Start with an healthy breakfast and then continue throughout the day to eat small "meals" or pieces of fruit. That way you won't be a stupid ass**** that gets to be salty on a TH-cam video directed to an audience that think 100% differently than you. That's asking the internet to be true with you. And the audacity that you have towards me? Did you really think you could win?! 🤣🤣🤣
Listen here boy. Before judging someone don't expose yourself by being a cunt, if you had the idea that you were going to bully a kid, you couldn't be more wrong 😂😂😂😂
Do everyone a favor and stop eating all our food
Oh right, I almost forgot to explain.
Imagine that you buy a sandwich for 10$, but the guy from across the street has bigger ones with the same price. That doesn't mean that they are better in taste or quality.
Can you relate to that? I bet you don't, and that you always go for the king size one
Hang on, so you're saying that two items which might appear similar but have different prices, mean they might also be different quality?
So Dan's Super Subs (Woodland Hills, LA), selling a foot long philly cheese steak sandwich for $13 MIGHT be selling a better sandwich than Subway?
In the same way I guess the MINI costs a little bit more than an Abarth 595, but is a LOT nicer.
Wow, now it seems so clear!
One other thing, have you finished with those fries?
Oops! I posted a comment without realising you mentioned 'Intro footage Kindly Donated by StefABTV' 😅
This is not a review, this is a case for the prosecution. Despite this bloke's relentless snivelling there are actually dozens of reviews available both on TH-cam and elsewhere, some enthusiastic and some sceptical but none as clearly commenced with a curled lip as this one.
At the end of the day, it’s all down to taste. This isn’t to your taste which is fair enough, but I hate German cars for the fact that they look boring and are just too engineered (also they have no character IMO). Driving for me is about having fun on the way to work. Yes I own an abarth. It’s a standard 500 abarth that’s tuned to over 200bhp which is still on the IHI turbo. Abarths have bags of character and always turn heads. People don’t buy these for practicality, they buy these because they are awesome little things. Since when has anything Italian ever been reliable and practical? Who cares...it’s about enjoying the moment and it sounds a lot better when someone says; so what do you drive? ...An abarth. Sounds a lot better than saying a Ford, Vauxhall, BMW, Mini etc. Plus it’s only a 1.4. Name me any German cars on the market with the same engine size that offers performance the abarth has...None. Stop comparing it to cars with bigger engines. That’s like comparing apples and oranges. Sorry I do respect your opinion but you are wrong about the abarth.
Sorry but i dont think your really getting the point of a 595
Please explain, I am genuinely curious
Your supposed to drive around italy in boat shoes and a little Italian hat. Then stop for a short black coffee at the nearest cafe. Then back to that mini van seating position you begin beeping the horn at everyone saying ciao ciao!!
A very well executed negative review
Thankyou
No problem mate, love your reviews. Would love to see a DC2 and DC5 video
I am working on that one
96 - 2000 Integra type R review please (DC2R)
This dude has some serious issues that needs to be dealt with, his negativity has literally just put me a bad mood! God dam! 🤯🤯
If an opinion on a car affects your mood that's your issue.
I’ve never understood meets where you all have the same car, I just don’t get it
Ain’t nobody got time for that they are all unique in their own way usually. Rarely do you see two with exactly the same mods and colours etc.
Respect boi for bein honest
Cheers
I loved my twin air always a hoot not driven the Abarth though but people who have them seem to love them.
My friend who owns a tuning company and has owned a boosted frs and big turbo Mazda speed 3 just added an arbarth to his fleet
Super popular for tuning
Oh Dear, had really made up your mind before you started didn't you? I got as far as 9:30 before I pulled the plug. And sadly I won't be watching any more. ps Ex-mini driver & possible Abarth driver.
No, I had not made my decision before driving. If I have prejudices I generally make them known
My fun car is a Porsche 996 C4 Aerokit, my daily is a Fiat 500 Twin Air S 0.9L, the wife has a Fiat 500 1.2L Lounge, my friend has an Abarth 595 Competizione and my other friends Mrs has a Fiat 500 1.2L Popular.. I know a good fun car, and I regularly thrash a 911 down B roads, but the Fiat 500 is a joy I love them, but I think the standard car is far better than the Abarth 595, the 595 is just sketchy and well, just, under engineered.
after owning one plastic is crap should have 6 speed turning circle is terrible but it does put smile on my face when I drive it
Its obviously not a car for somebody like you. I don't own one but I understand the passion and beauty that these Italian cars have been designed with. It's different for and quirky sure, and you either love it or hate it. I had a Fiat Uno Turbo, and there were many things about it that was quirky or weird, but that's exactly the reason why I loved it.
6:08 because you guys wanted your steering wheel on the other side
I wouldn't take that for free...
He is trying hard to find things he hates. Anyway. Only short-legged people complain about the seat height. When you have long legs, you can sit comfortably in this small car, while you cannot in low sports cars. The sixth gear in other cars is usually extremely tall, so you can only use it for cruising. And please consider the price of an Abarth... at least in Germany you only get a VW Polo 1.0 three pot with 65 hp for the price of a base Abarth, adjusted to extras. Btw, the old 911 had a heavy steering, too. And they started to pull at 4000 rpm. Means, the ones that actually made fun.
I'm not trying to, I just am. Anyone can complain about the seat height - it is too high!
Sixth gear varies in cars, it is not always a cruising gear (eg. Honda Type Rs).
I will agree it appears good value compared to a Polo from a performance perspective.
And the 911 had heavy steering yes, but it was not non linear like this
I realize that my reply appears more negative than I intended to :) The Abarth is no perfect car and I sincerely recommend to anyone intending to buy one to drive at least a few miles with it. I get similar fire when I bash the '73 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7, which is a cool car, but it doesn't drive as good as people expect. The engine is always leaking oil, hair crasks are common with the 2.7, the successing 3.0 is of better build quality. But tell that to a petrol head...
The 2.7 RS is great, but it is "of its time"
TRULY Love your raw and Honest review. Exactly what we want to hear.
'Subscribed' !
Apart from the 'Mini', is there anything else that 'compares' to the Abarth please?
(I am contemplating buying one)
Regards.
Maybe the Fiesta ST or Corss VXR?
@@JayEmmOnCars
THANK YOU.
Appreciated.
Any good you tube video has about 10-20% thumbs down... seeing the number on this video should tell you something. A happy Abarth owner.
Tells me the Abarth crowd disagree. I hope to be able to revisit the 595 again some day, perhaps in the right trim it will appeal more
I know you're not a hot hatch fan James a lotus nut myself neither am I. But I've heard the old clio 182 trophy is really quite special. Perhaps you need to do a review 🤗
I had a 172 review lined up, need to rearrange. I am looking forward to it
Speaking reviewers, I lost faith with the majority when the latest Astra came out, and all the reviewers gushed over its handling. Being a gtc owner, I thought they had used a similar set up, on the new 5 door. So when mine went in for a service a was happy to see a 1.4 turbo new astra. The interior is a big step up, but it's handling is miles behind the gtc. I was so let down.
The small 1.4 petrol unit was quite decent, very "peppy" for its size. Would suit most astra owners.
Jay, the 6-speed (or lack of it) is not a matter of choice by Fiat, it's often impossible to get a 6-speed that can take some torque in a tiny city car without sacrificing a practical turning circle, especially if the car has 'sporty' tires (very much the case for the Abarth). If there was a way, don't you think they would have put a 6-speed under the bonnet before mounting third party shocks, brakes, exhaust systems etc you can find on all the versions of the 500 Abarth…? I love seeing a 595 or 695, I think it looks fabulous but it's just not worth the money, looking at the performance on paper.
MINI managed it....
JayEmm on Cars Ok, now compare dimensions, compare turning circles and read how mini owners 'LOL' about the turning circle of their car. Also, read how 595 owners LOL about their turning circle: imagine adding another meter to the fiat circle... If you dont understand, open the bonnet of any compact city car and watch where the gearbox ends. Turn the wheels and thou shall see the light...
If you want a bad turning circle, try an MG ZS. Abysmal. But I live with it.
I lived in London for five years and drove a big car with a large turning circle. It was fine. Living in the sticks it is now of nearly zero relevance to me.
At 12-15k I completely forgive the 5 speed box. But to still have it in the Biposto etc? Not cool. That's a model which should sacrifice practical stuff for handling/performance
JayEmm on Cars . You' right, there's always worse :) . I do suspect Abarth just won't invest the r&d to develop this gearbox and fiat doesn't need it on their 500. In that way, the abarth is a bit like the Esprit... But believe me, you'll have to add up to 3 feet to it's turning circle if you were to install a 6-speed in that tiny car.
A sacrifice I would make. I hope when the 500 platform is replaced they make more room for Abarth to work more magic on it, rather than the limited space they have now
Love the review, not so sure about the car and the shirt!
Martin M I actually liked his shirt ! Haha
If you're interested in one of these- do go for a test drive (with sport mode on!) and see what you think yourself. I had a USDM 2013 500 Abarth and I loved it more than my Porsche Boxster 986. It's a damn good car. Interior and seating position aren't great (not bad for the price though) but my God is it fun. It has personality like few else... oh, and do yourself a favor and watch the Doug Demuro review;)
Don't know why but I really like this car.
Respect your opinion but I think you totally miss the point of what Abarth is all about. At least you like the Monza Exhaust on the Comp.
I might like the Comp, who knows
Guess which ad played on this one for me :D :D
The ad is cool, I have to say, otherwise not my car either, although I think I get the idea.
Wish we had real-life photoshop and could reduce it's height to 90% :D
It’s a fun car but your right for the money it’s quite plasticy inside and just lacks that polish it needs. I think I’d choose the mini.
How would you compare the 595 to the Adam S you drove some time ago?
595 faster, bit better handing bar the wayward back end. Adam S more comfortable. 595 much easier to tune/mod
You accept these for what they are. You dont buy one then complain its not got this or that, or could have been different cos of blah blah. Ive had two of them, new. Last one I regret selling. It suited me and my personality perfectly.
JayEmm, when are you going to review the Hyundai i10, 2009 edition. £20 a week to fill up....you can thrash the pituitary glands off it and buy another for a grand if anything goes South. It probably has better steering than the Arbarth and you also have to really work the sweet shifting box mated to that insane 1.2 naturally aspirated beast of an engine. A true gem in the mud, mostly ignored at the time due to the recent banking crisis.
This sort of car is not for everyone and sounds like it’s the same for you. I work where we get a wide range of cars including a 2010 Abarth 500 esseesse and I think it’s a brilliant car to drive, very nippy and handles like a go kart. Yeah the interior is basic but don’t really pay that much attention when you enjoy what it’s built for.
I tried hard to like these too however the seat height, ride and ergonomics (space/steering wheel adjustment/pedals) were not great. It does however have a very tunable motor and looks fantastic. So instead I bought a punto with the same t-jet engine and modified it with the money I saved not buying the abarth. More room, better ergonomics/adjustability and is also a fun Italian car. I get why ppl love the 595 though.
Cletus, you've got to remember, telling the truth has never been a great career move, just ask Jesus. This car is an abomination, and Abarth have prostituted their name in the pursuit of money. I think your review was too kind. However, be prepared for the wrath of the supporters of Barabbas.
So far, they've been fairly understanding....
They're just waiting for the pitchforks and flaming torches to arrive.😕😕😕
Well, Az, they've certainly amazed me‼️I can't believe how low Abarth have sunk.😟😟😟
Whenever you see a Fiat 500 the first thing you think is girls car as that's the target market for it cute little hand bag on wheels. Making a slight performance version makes no difference to my view. I've driven a few 500 and the abarths and the one thing i took away from it was how cheap everything felt the from the moment you shut the door with tinny sound to the horrible cheap dashboard.
Funny because I see WAY more girls driving SUVs. Especially German ones.
I would love to see you do an original Fiat 500 and the original Abarth. Would be such a great watch.
Cool car I have one
Steering does seem jaded at slow speed but improves as you get down the road engine is always willing boost gauge is a bit naff but quirky. The love for these cars come from reasonable second hand purchase prices for the smiles given good residual value and vv reasonably priced mods and extras I'm a fan for all the reasons above. Its not perfect but neither is the shirt your wearing 😃
How dose this compare to the renault sport twingo as I feel they are similar cars.
I can't take a video of someone smugly complaining about a strip of red plastic on the interior of a car seriously while they are wearing that shirt, personal taste is personal taste. You're welcome to your view but the smugness of the video was just awful, I couldn't finish.
I've owned and driven everything from Ferrari's to Porsche's, Lotus to fast Honda's and when the day comes to move on from my run-around Abarth I'll miss it more than I've missed any other car. Stock with 180bhp it's a blast but the latest engine (out of an F4 car) will take over 205bhp with just an ECU remap, that's 200 bhp in a car that weighs less than the new Alpine. The backend comments are just bazaar.
The CLA45 is a totally different car but is this is the worst car you've ever driven? Would be curious to hear your thoughts on the Abarth 124 that has the same engine, and see if you prefer it over the ND MX5.
In late 2016 I was looking for a new car. My main criteria was to have 'fun' once again and the 595 Competizione (180 ps) was on my list. I test drove two of them and yes, they brought real fun and a big grin to my face but I just couldn't buy one for some of the reasons you mention; seating position far too high, build quality & cheap interior ... etc. The Monza exhaust was brilliant but that much noise could annoy me after a while. For the record I didn't take to the Fiesta ST unlike most people and in the end I bought a Clio RS Trophy - brilliant and much improved over the first (non-Trophy) examples when the EDC gearbox was universally slated. Oh and just for the record I'm much older than JayEmm.
Clio is a fantastic choice
I will admit to being a long time fan of Italian classics so I really want this car to be good. Ive had many makes, and do gravitate to Italian offerings, although largly older offerings. I like 3 pedals, real engine noise from an exhaust not a speaker anddo not subscrive to 1400kg being light....
Why do people love the flawed Abarth? I think its a bit like famous actors...sometimes its the imperfections that make them so interesting. Italian manufacturers more often that not get it right in the styling and drivetrain department..but worry less about where the golf clubs will fit.
I admit to wanting one..bad..Im in love with the hillarious contradiction of Abarth. Im not 17...and I can afford a more expensive car...yet I think this could be the vehicle I am looking for. Ive driven fast cars...love them..on a track...usually dull in town. MyFiat 128 makes me smile every time I drive it to work....slow as a wet week..rolly polly...but Ive changed gears 3 time to 60kphr, and spun her to 6500 in each one...sounds fantastic and makes me smile. I get out after 10mins of driving, I feel happy, I walk away and ALWAYS look back. When I get the choice to get in the SQ5 or this...guess what I choose?! Dont missundersrand me here, the SQ5 is a bit of a beast but its an instrument, I dont look back.
Im a petrol head looking for a manual town car that looks great, sounds great and is just a little off center, ...The Abarth seems like a contender. High seat, no problem, Ill lower it, crap boost gauge? Ill delete it. Silly fat steering wheel? Yes please. (Numb steering...that could kill it for me)
Us buyers need your unbiased, un- sponsored views, keep it up... Now for a test drive to see if the Abarth is a memorable actress or an impostor..