Okay, I'm seventy one years old. Throughout my twenties until I was married, I drove sports cars. Triumph TR4, MGBGT, the 1st Datsun 240Z in the Buffalo, NY area, a Saab Sonnet. Then I got married and went into business, utility vans & pickup trucks. Recently I decided I no longer needed a pickup. Jay Leno said you can't drive a Fiat 500 Abarth without a smile on your face, and one of friends has a Mini Cooper S. I found the Mini is to low to the ground for an old guy 6' 1" and 250#. I didn't think I'd ever what an automatic in a sports car, but the 6 speed auto is great for an old guy with an arthritic left knee. I absolutely love my Fiat 500 Abarth, with it's real red leather buckets. No fake bonded leather. Everyone comments on how comfortable and roomy it is. At 71 driving is fun again! I'm going on vacation to Maine, I'll take all the back roads. VROOM, VROOM!
You've definitely had some fun cars. I'm an older guy, too, and used to drive a 280Z. I now have a Fiesta ST, and yes, driving is fun again. Hot hatches are where it's at for me.
Im buying one because.. with my '97 Toyota 4runner being the unreal reliable vehicle it is (sold a tracker v6 fun truck), I've decided I need something for fun!✔️
I genuinely wonder if anyone is going to see this comment, 5 years after this video was made. I had a 2013 Abarth in black with red accents. I traded it in for a 2018 Kia Stinger, a car far quicker, far more comfortable, far more features and far more practicality. I've owned the 3.3L v6 Stinger for 3 years and I miss my Abarth every day. That exhilarating exhaust note on the Abarth is one of a kind.
My biggest hesitation towards trading up to a Type R is losing that charming roughness the Abarth has, and your experience seems to sum that up well. If I can find the space or the time, I guess it's best to keep the Abarth as well?
I really love how this channel shows the under body of the cars and then discusses the mechanics of the suspension , sway bars, control arms, exhaust, header, etc. No other car show that I watch puts the car(s) on a lift, show it off, and discuss what makes it handles oh so great (or oh so like shit, lol).
kenshin moriame yes meanwhile instead of being subjective, they laugh or make jokes about some cars, I am sure the mechanics wife, when he got one, looks like a train, wouldn't it ugly to laugh about????? More serious. Or let me know which car you drive, and I make a test about.
Engineering Explained Kinda showed the suspension components in depth by removing the wheels back when he did car reviews a couple of years ago. Not sure why he stopped him and Savagegeese were the most informative car reviewers.
I bought my 2013 500 Abarth new 7 years ago, I still own it to this day and have over 100k miles. I will keep this car for the rest of my life. I love it!
I have had mine since 2019! The only dumb thing it does is hiccup at 5500 rpm in 2nd. I was tuned and it went away, but went to stock when the tune went to shit.
Funny you should ask, it goes in for warranty work on Thursday. It developed a small coolant leak, which lowered the coolant level and ruined the auxiliary water pump which starts running after the engine is turned off to keep the turbo cool. Replacing coolant overflow tank (that leaked) and that pump under warranty.
If you go to Europe, Italy especially, you'll realize that Fiats are like the local small domestic car. They aren't that unique, if at all, and have plenty of other models, which are just as mainstream. They are somewhat rare and unique here, but Fiats, Alfa Romeos, Lancias, etc... are a dime a dozen over there.
@@Dowlphin um ever worked on one? I havent needed to in 120k miles in my abarth... People who actually own the car in reality like them for a reason... Maybe stop listening to the internet so much and get some hands on experience... Maybe youll be taken more seriously
@@lindahpham7395 I am actually surprised how in my backwater city here and around it I see so many of these Abarth Fiat 500s. (Unless there's a regular, non-Abarth sporty trim level of it that has the same looks. But still surprising.)
Well im nor surprised... Definitely this car isnt made for the american market. Just like any hatchback tbh. We europeans on the other hand love small cars and alot of people buy abarth since its so small yet powerful.
+mzondi1970 Oh I apologize if I came out rude. I was talking about the general american market where hatchbacks and small cars seem to be a minority :)
+ICcreepers I own 2 honda hatches and in integra. I'm considering the Abarth. oh yeah I'm 46. never owned a manual Trans. I would love to come to Europe there are so many hatches that we can't get here that I want to drive
I absolutely HATE that hatches aren't sold much here. :( I LOVE hatchbacks. Whenever the wife and I visit her family in Germany I spend the whole time admiring and taking pictures of all the Renault and Peugeots and even Honda Civic hatches that they don't sell here (which I REALLY hate) and the VWs like the new Sciroccos. Then I go home and dream about moving there JUST so I can have access to all the awesome hatchbacks!! Do hatchbacks REALLY sell that poorly in America? :/
This guy has a terrible left foot or the clutch is poorly setup. Look how he forcefully stomps the clutch to the firewall every time he shifts. He clearly has trouble finding where the clutch engages.
savagegeese If you truly must push the pedal to the floor to disengage the clutch, than please excuse my comment. Out of dozens of manual transmission vehicles, I have never seen one that requires the clutch pedal to bottom out to disengage the clutch. If this is true of the Fiat, that is a ridiculous design.
+funkingitup There are plenty of designs that require complete depression to disengage clutch all the way. Plenty of clutch/trans issues from manufacturers that release TSBs about it warning customers to clutch to floor over years. As habit and safety, namely in a car I don't own always foot to floor. Does the Fiat require it as well? Unknown, not likely though, so lets just agree we both have points?
Driving an abarth is Go-cart-fun every time. I love mine. And it s much more an eye Catcher than a Golf or that all other 0815 tuned cars. Especially it s sound. Reaction ... oh a fiat500 *girl car*...wait it looks cooler... ffffffffffrrrrrrrrrrmmm .... rear lights...and be bye. thats abarth ;)
I just got an abarth, 2013 with an intake, catless downpipe, short shifter, lowered on coilovers, and a tune..I'll tell ya what this little shit gets up and goes. I enjoy this more than my WRX and I got it for it's awesome fuel economy lol
I had the 1st model year for North America, 2012 and absolutely loved every second of ownership. So much personality in such a small package. I ran Eibach Sportline springs, and along with tinted windows it looked fantastic. Black w/ red stripes and a red leather interior. Never had a single issue with it the 30,000km and 2 years of ownership. I needed a larger vehicle for work, if it weren't for that I would still have her today.
I work for FIAT. So on the "EU Model" it uses a 10W50 Oil. Also the EU model has a muffler. invest some money in the 2 optional exhaust Systems. (worth every cent)
Tjet engine is a true twin cam engine, therefore can reliably make good power, unlike the multi air engine which has a pneumatic pump to operate valves.
Easily the best review I've seen on the Abarth, to date. I own a 2013 (car #23 over a lifetime) and despite its flaws it's easily the most fun car I've owned. Eclipses 2 Miatas, a 280ZX and an 1st gen Jetta GLI. Thanks for keeping it real and doing a proper review. Oy vey to that yellow color tho...
I have an Abarth and I think you brought up some really valid points. For me, it's the craziness that you mentioned that makes the car. Abarth has always been known for their weird creations, and I think the 500 Abarth follows suit. Great review!
Had 2012 Abarth until last summer when Covid dropped the price on used Alpha. Will admit the Alpha is better in every way but miss how the Fiat filled my senses and scampered through traffic. It was fun in every day driving with a few mods. The Alpha can only recreate that fun on super twisty road going at dangerous speeds. Proved adage driving slow car fast is better than fast car slow.
I hate when people say the exhaust is what makes the Abarth sound good. Yes, it helps, but the reason it sounds good is because the engine itself sounds brilliant. If you put an Abarth exhaust on any other car it wouldn't sound as good. The Fiat 500 has the best sounding 4 cylinder engine ever made. Abarth or not.
Not entirely true. Most engines sound exactly the same without an exhaust, the header design, length and shape as well as the exhaust design govern the sound of a vehicle, almost exclusively.
You haven’t heard my 4AGE 20v at high RPM... but I’m watching this video because I’m interested in an Abarth. I also have the best exhaust system to come out of Japan for my engine so that probably helps the sound.
Its not necessarily the engine that sounds good. Its the fact that is straight pipe. If you straight pipe a prius, it would sound almost the same. (straight piping is when you get rid of the catalytic converter which is responsible of cleaning the toxins and silencing the engine)
I don't know how you consistently put out such high quality productions, but your videos are by far the best I've ever seen on TH-cam. Well done and please keep it up.
Great review. Bought my 2015 Abarth back in November and I love it. Thing is an absolute blast to drive. It's got its funky quarks, but that's what makes it fun and gives it personality. I couldn't be happier with my choice in buying this little pet mouse on wheels
@@surfside75 I'm not Clarkson, obviously, but I'm italian and I can assure you that "Abarth" is pronounced that way because he was born in Austria and it's with a hard "T" there too.
I have a 2012, so I am a little late to this video. Owned it for 6 years now with only 25,000 miles on it. As somebody who has owned an original 850 Spider, 128 Sedan and 3P, and more 124 spider than would be healthy to mention, one thing that irritates me is how everyone gets the seating position wrong on the 500. You do not sit upright and high so you can see in traffic or so the car feels more substantial. No, you sit upright and high because it is a small car and that is the only way to fit 4 seats in a vehicle with a 90" wheelbase. In comparison, the Miata has a 90 inch wheelbase, there is no way in hell to fit 4 people inside the wheels with the seating position as laid back as it is in that sports car. It's all about packaging. If you want to fit 10 pounds of shit into a 5 pound bag, you need to make sure it is a very tall bag.
Time and Time again, over the years, Soul, driving feel and charm win, over ( as he said here ) "Technology" and just straight-line speed. And I'm not saying this as a "FIAT Fanboy". I've owned BMW's, Porsches, FIATS, and Alfa Romeos, and I'll take the Italian car that wins my Heart EVERY time over a car that gets me to 60 MPH faster.
Honestly, this is the best and most honest review of the Abarth I have seen. I owned a 2013 Abarth for a year and a half and it was the most fun car to drive I have ever had...even better than my Miata. For two people it was fine and, as you said, with the back seats down there is enough space to bring what you want. As you stated, Abarth owners love their cars, even if they have problems. I never had a check engine light come on. I did fine however, in the cold climate of Vermont, the rubber bushings in the suspension would harden up until they were like a rock, and every time you hit a bump, your teeth would rattle. I had to have them replaced twice, as they cannot handle extreme cold without hardening up. Chryslers do not have that issue, so I am not sure why they could not make one that wasn't temperature sensitive. I also had to have the lower steering shaft replaced. None of the work cost me a dime, as all were covered by the warranty. Ultimately, I only sold it because in the deep snow here in the Northeast, it sucked, as you would expect on a car that rides so low to the ground. But with all that, I still loved it. Just a short drive with that incredible exhaust note permeating the cabin has a narcotic effect. I still miss it, and if I lived in a warmer part of the country, no doubt I would still have it!
i own both a Miata and a '13 Abarth...you've been drinking too much fiat koolaid if you think the abarth is more fun than the miata. Only thing the abarth is good at is straight line speed. otherwise it handles like crap and rides worst. The only reason i still have the abarth is the ridiculous depreciation, otherwise it would have been gone after the first yr.
To each their own, Hugo. You should come to understand that not all people feel exactly the same way you do. You enjoy the Miata better, and he enjoys the fiat more. End of story. Don't try to discredit him because they don't line up with your own OPINIONS.
No disrespect to the reviewer, but when he complains about the sound system, I can't help but think, who the h*ll is listening to the radio when driving a 500 Abarth?
I bought one of these cars and don`t care-a-less how reliable it is. It is easy to work on if you care to wrench it. I have also owned the same tool box for forty years anyway. . . .Lol. I forgot to add: It`s the funnest car I have ever driven [for the money].
Bought a used 2012 500 Sport 5 speed with 35000 miles on clock. Its been over a year since purchase. Now have 47000 miles on it. Have averaged 34 mpg all year. Handles like a go kart, plenty fast for me- remember this is not the Abarth. No reliability issues. My wife just bought a demo 2015 500L Trekking, fully loaded. She loves it.
Having an FR-S, I consider it one of the best budget sport cars ever made. Not fast, but fantastically balanced with superb feel. The Abarth doesn't have that - however, it's fantastically fun. It's zippy and the exhaust note just makes you feel like you're in some bubble Ferrari. The Beats by Dre audio system really is disappointing. Very poor clarity and quality of sound. Anyone thinking of that, skip it and do it properly for $1,200 at an audio shop.
Great review, made me want one. Refreshing to watch a review done by knowledgeable even-handed people with a positive outlook and a novel approach e.g. when showing the underside which I've not seen and appreciated before.
Ugh... I'm always bewildered when I hear these reviews. They NEVER point out the #1 thing about the Abarth. It is simply the happiest car on the planet. You simply can't drive this thing without a huge goofy grin on your face. He picks on having to raise the seat to get the wheel in a useable position. I'm curious as to how tall he is. I'm a larger fellow, 6'3", 235lb, and it was a perfect, I mean PERFECT fit. And as for the boost audio... I wanted to experiment with this so I brought some Yo-Yo Ma, Metallica, Adele, and Pearl Jam. It was brilliant! Granted, most of the time one will just enjoy the burble of the exhaust, but if you're in traffic, you can enjoy your tunes--no problem. Bottom line, the 500 Abarth is a terrific, happy little car. And for the money, there simply is no way to beat it.
@@rencaelum4396 I'm 5.7 250lb (Yes, a bit chubby) I didn't really have any problems in the one day I rented one. Beware though... Reliability is GOD AWFUL, don't go on long road trips in the mountains unless you'll have signal to call a tow truck. Its been proven, and isn't a myth. Stay safe and have fun!
@@chocolatetampon4492 I certainly hope it'd survive a 1,200 Mile road trip with less than 100k miles logged. 100k is just the breaking in point for most cars (Non-American or Italian) Give me a status update at 150k, seriously.
Most of the people that own one of these start adding electronic devices to improve engine performance. That resulted in lots of throwing codes. I sold my 2013 after 6 months. I loved most aspects of the car. I got tired of filling it with gas every day. I had a long commute and the Abarth made it fun. But on the way home the gas light would come on. I got 25mpg driving the snot out of it. The light came on with two gallons left in the tank. I had to fill it every day. Used ones are stupid cheap now so I am looking for one with the color and options I want. Great review.
He says the sound system is trash but when he showed his EQ settings, the bass, mids, and treble were all turned up. Don't do this! It's actually best to turn down the bass maybe -1 or -2, have the mids at 0, and turn the treble up +1 or +2. Thats a broad EQ that will almost always improve "clarity" of a stock sound system. Unless it's aftermarket and able to handle more power, you should always attempt to decrease the amount of bass because of distortion, and the highs turned up to overpower the sounds of exhaust and road noise. I highly doubt savage will see this but if anyone benefits from this, please spread the word if you hear a shitty sound system in a car. They probably just have their bass turned up all the way because the BASS BROH...
My beautiful and amazing mistress it was actually a smart move, this car is pretty inexpensive so lots of younger people will be looking at it. And young people tend to adore Beats, so in a way Fiat knows their market. Hahaha
It's fun to re watch these old episodes which I religiously watched as soon as I found out about it. Strange that you guys have been, in some small way, part of my life with a viewing habit for 8 years already. I still miss turbowski sometimes but you have become the best car reviewer on this platform. I bet there were times you wanted to quit or doubted if this TH-cam thing would really work out but look in the comments, it's non stop; you are the best car journalists on You Tube, best, best and as you proved with your review of the Civic Type R, if you can get emotions captured so that we see the joy, or disgust, people will respond because the emotions are real, but to actually film that in such a beautiful way is not easy. Takes probably lots of hours to edit that so we the audience "gets it". Mad respect Mark, you are a rare breed. May God bless you richly for all the joy you have given me these past 8 years.
I am moving onto my second Abarth, I will say one thing to any current owners or future owners, don't just floor the throttle, the turbo needs time to catch up as there is a small amount of lag. Let the turbo begin to boost and then ease the throttle in, in addition if you change gear during this process you get some incredible back fire. Lastly, stick the Record Monza exhaust on this car, you will not be disappointed. (Current 2015 595 Turismo, Future 2017 595 Competizione)
loved my Abarth but it required 10k to be except-able, and when under steer happens youll never forget it. The Focus ST rotates at its limits rather than bull dosing off the side of the mountain. But Fun wise the Abarth is a blast Ill give it that
Alex Moran I drove a s2000 at my work and was shocked at how solid the front frame is. very nice boxed frame. revs nicely. fun car. probably slightly better than Abarth overall and a good investment
Love our little '17 Abarth, even though we have to "prime" it every time it sits for more than a few weeks. The "Beats Audio Exhaust by Dr. Dre" joke aged way too well, given the electric Abarth's horrendous simulated exhaust speaker.
What a great run down for this car, I'm bias because I have one. I'm on my second 500 and it's one of the few, if not only small drivers cars (the car is small, I'm 6'3") left in the US besides a Miata. The Mini has gotten too big for me and it is no longer the go-cart it once was. I have a 2019 and it is the last rendition of this platform, it will no longer be available to us. Even in Los Angeles this car is unique, no one expects that howl coming from it's ass- straight pipes? Who the hell does that? Fiat does. So since I won't need an aftermarket muffler I purchased a set of coilovers and a sway bar, see you at the track.
What an in-depth and utterly enjoyable review, expertly and superbly produced, professionally edited, and at the same time super insightful. After seeing your unbiased and sincere reviews, anyone considering buying any of your reviewed cars knows exactly what they're getting into. You are going places, big time. Thumbs up! P.S. I live in a country far away and I am very happy to share your work with all my friends who are car enthusiasts.
+Mihai Scortea Thanks, glad you are enjoying these videos and they are not just a total waste of time. It's always funny to me that people far and away find them and like them.
This is one of the best looking cars I've ever seen and I don't understand how it's being presented here. Same in many other reviews. This is the coolest thing on the road in fucking years.
Not actually true! These cars are not a "check engine" light fest. I qwn a 2013 Abarth with 72.000 miles with no major issues! I absolutely love it! I also know quite a few other people who own one with no check engine light issues as well. I will be getting another Abarth in the near future! No doubt! The best car I have owned!
I've always read that the Abarth engine is very reliable... especially compared to the regular Fiat 500 engine. I know a happy owner with 91000 miles on his 2013 Abarth.
I have a 2012 non-Abarth, regular Fiat 500. So far it has been very reliable. I had one warranty repair to fix a loose steering column and one recall for the clutch pedal.
I have a 2013 Abarth. Your assessment of this vehicle is spot on. It does however confuse me that they even put a back seat into this vehicle. They should have made this car a two seater and put a spare tire mount into the back. That would have been far more practical for this car.
Nunya Buzinezz I took my rear seat out and it changed it for the better. with a socket set and a torx set I had the rears out in just a few min. it's the best mod to do to this car. now I can fit 2 guitar amps and 3 guitars without issue.
Christian Forbes Are there kits available to make it a covered storage area and/or carry a spare tire? I’m thinking of buying a 2013 to mod it but I live in Montreal and despite garaging it I will have some snow & cold issues. Alternative is new GTI or NC Miata.
Love your yellow Abarth~ great racy color scheme! "There's scorpions everywhere" hah, so right on. I can fit a week's worth of groceries in my 2017 Abarth (but I use the front passenger seat as well). Wow, I'm getting 39 MPG in mine. But, with that said, I don't take it to the track or sling it around at all. It is my daily driver. You are so right...the driver feels connected to the car when driving. You nailed this review perfectly. Loved it! Thank you for sharing; I subbed.
I really enjoy the Hill-Start control. It is by no means necessary when you are skilled and quick with that clutch pedal and throttle application but i find it nice to have in certain situations. Had it in my 15 Fiesta ST, in my 15 STi and now in my 18 Focus RS. And frankly I never felt like it was invasive, holding back the car and risking to stall it. Of course it’s a feature that the hardcore gearhead will most likely shit on saying it’s for ppl who can’t drive but it can be really useful when you have someone behind you who seems to really like hugging your rear end. No need to stress out wondering if you’ll be quick enough to roll off without rolling back a little and risking to hit it. Or maybe when the music is a little loud and you can’t hear the engine much. (I find it difficult to do a good start when I can’t hear the engine...)
Final, Final Thoughts - Ok, I think Fiat is onto something. A simple car that's fun to drive. Brilliant! Now if somebody would get rid of the dimension sucking black holes known as "Infotainment", Butt-Wipers, and Automatic Tampon Dispensers... Oh, and give me hand crank windows, and a simple radio - the kind that fades out under underpasses. Thank you.
+dan noyes There you go. "Infotainment" is such a gimmick if you ask me. Let's load the car with all this nonsense and poor visibility but then create a bunch of nanny's to drive the car.
Probably the best all-around car review I have ever seen, and that is saying a lot. You answered a lot of questions I had, from cargo capacity to understeer capacity, to the meaning of fun in a car. Kudos to you, I have watched probably thousands of "reviews" over the years and you nailed the right balance between information, expertise, mechanical know-how, and driving impressions. One thing though, the pronunciation: Italians, tend to say "eh-BART,' " while others pronounce the name "AH'-bart," accenting the first syllable. It's definitely not "A-Barth"
Top two finalists for me were the abarth and the 2007 Miata. Could barely sleep trying to decide. In the end I went with the Miata mostly because of simplicity and holding its value better. I have a feeling I will always wonder if I should have went abarth. So much fun. I came from 17 years of the mini. People that hate on the abarth need to get in one.
My Fiat (not an Abarth) needed a new Steering Rack after 45k (Km) cost from Italy was around $4000. Fixed it then sold the car for $7000. So yeah, better luck to you.
And for everything that doesn't fit inside, that's what roof racks are for. Try driving an American-sized car through a medieval European city, and see how far you get before you're wedged somewhere and can't get out.
I know this is one of your older videos but I had to comment..I earlier this year, traded in a 2015 Fiesta ST for a 2013 Abarth....Absolutely loved the Fiesta but I wanted a change...in terms of pure driving the Fiesta has it all over the Abarth...however what makes the car so good can also leave you a bit cold...it lacks a bit of personality like modern VW's...the Abarth..the minute you start it up makes you grin..the crack of that exhaust....the backfire on a downshift...and the car itself..got mine for about 10K USD...would never buy one new..used though..for sure. Thanks for your great video...car honestly hasn't changed much from 2013 to 2016.
I didn't buy this Fiat for storage, I bought it for fun factor-1000% fun! You feel the raw power like your flying nude on the road. I don't give a dam about the twerks of power windows etc, this car is fun and period. Just got mine last week and I drive to work with a smile each morning. I work at a very stressful job, a call center, this Fiat puts a smile when I go home. As for the speakers, who cares, only sound I want to hear is the horse power when I drive and that amazing pop.
Ive got a standard 500 in Yellow and it looks better with Yellow wing mirrors and without the horrid Abarth graphics in black on each side , no idea how they thought that would look good ? Also i love mine so much even when the clutch and gearbox failed i paid £1000 here in the UK to repair it as its so much fun for a little car
Okay, I'm seventy one years old. Throughout my twenties until I was married, I drove sports cars. Triumph TR4, MGBGT, the 1st Datsun 240Z in the Buffalo, NY area, a Saab Sonnet. Then I got married and went into business, utility vans & pickup trucks. Recently I decided I no longer needed a pickup. Jay Leno said you can't drive a Fiat 500 Abarth without a smile on your face, and one of friends has a Mini Cooper S. I found the Mini is to low to the ground for an old guy 6' 1" and 250#. I didn't think I'd ever what an automatic in a sports car, but the 6 speed auto is great for an old guy with an arthritic left knee. I absolutely love my Fiat 500 Abarth, with it's real red leather buckets. No fake bonded leather. Everyone comments on how comfortable and roomy it is. At 71 driving is fun again! I'm going on vacation to Maine, I'll take all the back roads. VROOM, VROOM!
Wow, I hope you had a blast!
You've definitely had some fun cars. I'm an older guy, too, and used to drive a 280Z. I now have a Fiesta ST, and yes, driving is fun again. Hot hatches are where it's at for me.
Heck yeah! My wife calls mine "the Zoomie car". Rock on Abarth Brother!
Hope you have a nice time driving it!
Im buying one because.. with my '97 Toyota 4runner being the unreal reliable vehicle it is (sold a tracker v6 fun truck), I've decided I need something for fun!✔️
I genuinely wonder if anyone is going to see this comment, 5 years after this video was made. I had a 2013 Abarth in black with red accents. I traded it in for a 2018 Kia Stinger, a car far quicker, far more comfortable, far more features and far more practicality. I've owned the 3.3L v6 Stinger for 3 years and I miss my Abarth every day. That exhilarating exhaust note on the Abarth is one of a kind.
yup...the "most smiles per mile" of any car!
I saw your comment. Old video but I’ve been wanting this car for 4 years and finally got one last month.
@@thoughtsauce7225 i will literally drive mine go the ground lol almost love it more than my r1!!
My biggest hesitation towards trading up to a Type R is losing that charming roughness the Abarth has, and your experience seems to sum that up well. If I can find the space or the time, I guess it's best to keep the Abarth as well?
Still go the car? @@thoughtsauce7225
I really love how this channel shows the under body of the cars and then discusses the mechanics of the suspension , sway bars, control arms, exhaust, header, etc.
No other car show that I watch puts the car(s) on a lift, show it off, and discuss what makes it handles oh so great (or oh so like shit, lol).
I agree. That combined with their humor are the main reasons I'm subscribed and always keep coming back.
kenshin moriame yes meanwhile instead of being subjective, they laugh or make jokes about some cars, I am sure the mechanics wife, when he got one, looks like a train, wouldn't it ugly to laugh about????? More serious. Or let me know which car you drive, and I make a test about.
I'm grateful af they do that
Engineering Explained Kinda showed the suspension components in depth by removing the wheels back when he did car reviews a couple of years ago. Not sure why he stopped him and Savagegeese were the most informative car reviewers.
Butt crack
I bought my 2013 500 Abarth new 7 years ago, I still own it to this day and have over 100k miles. I will keep this car for the rest of my life. I love it!
Same friend! Cheers
Do you still own it today? How has ownership been, and what has been replaced?
@@Speedysnail9999 Still own it. 140k miles and just both back wheel bearings.
@@powerspec88I have a friend who owns one and currently selling it. I'm very tempted. I used to have a fiat coupe 20v turbo and loved it.
I have had mine since 2019! The only dumb thing it does is hiccup at 5500 rpm in 2nd. I was tuned and it went away, but went to stock when the tune went to shit.
Ive been driving a 2015 Abarth for a year. Its loud, and fun - nothing else.
That's all you need
+Lee L How it's it on reliability?
In 2 years nothing wrong with it, just oil changes. And I drive the snot out of it LOL
You still loving this car? I was about to buy a 2015 with 20k miles on it for a great deal
Funny you should ask, it goes in for warranty work on Thursday. It developed a small coolant leak, which lowered the coolant level and ruined the auxiliary water pump which starts running after the engine is turned off to keep the turbo cool. Replacing coolant overflow tank (that leaked) and that pump under warranty.
Exactly why I love fiat. They don't follow the crowd.
If you go to Europe, Italy especially, you'll realize that Fiats are like the local small domestic car. They aren't that unique, if at all, and have plenty of other models, which are just as mainstream. They are somewhat rare and unique here, but Fiats, Alfa Romeos, Lancias, etc... are a dime a dozen over there.
Everybody's frantically chasing that reliability. Not Fiat.
@@Dowlphin um ever worked on one? I havent needed to in 120k miles in my abarth... People who actually own the car in reality like them for a reason... Maybe stop listening to the internet so much and get some hands on experience... Maybe youll be taken more seriously
I know its a popular car in Europe but comparing it to other cars on the global market, I still prefer the fiats exterior and interior design.
@@lindahpham7395 I am actually surprised how in my backwater city here and around it I see so many of these Abarth Fiat 500s. (Unless there's a regular, non-Abarth sporty trim level of it that has the same looks. But still surprising.)
@7:27 "It's surprising this even works." That should be Fiat's corporate motto.
Well im nor surprised... Definitely this car isnt made for the american market. Just like any hatchback tbh. We europeans on the other hand love small cars and alot of people buy abarth since its so small yet powerful.
Shouldn't generalize, I'm American and love hates lol. Would love to have this car
+mzondi1970 Oh I apologize if I came out rude. I was talking about the general american market where hatchbacks and small cars seem to be a minority :)
+ICcreepers I own 2 honda hatches and in integra. I'm considering the Abarth. oh yeah I'm 46. never owned a manual Trans. I would love to come to Europe there are so many hatches that we can't get here that I want to drive
I absolutely HATE that hatches aren't sold much here. :( I LOVE hatchbacks. Whenever the wife and I visit her family in Germany I spend the whole time admiring and taking pictures of all the Renault and Peugeots and even Honda Civic hatches that they don't sell here (which I REALLY hate) and the VWs like the new Sciroccos. Then I go home and dream about moving there JUST so I can have access to all the awesome hatchbacks!! Do hatchbacks REALLY sell that poorly in America? :/
che cazzo dici?
@11:01 Wearing a Honda Racing Jacket while reviewing a fiat Abarth lol
Haha, Honda missed a trick by not selling Fit Si...
This guy has a terrible left foot or the clutch is poorly setup. Look how he forcefully stomps the clutch to the firewall every time he shifts. He clearly has trouble finding where the clutch engages.
+funkingitup You don't need to find clutch engagement point during disengagement. Just press down, don't drag it.
savagegeese
You don't need to, but why would you want to slam your leg back and forth when you could pivot your foot?
+funkingitup There is no way to fully depress the clutch that way at least in my driving position.
savagegeese
If you truly must push the pedal to the floor to disengage the clutch, than please excuse my comment. Out of dozens of manual transmission vehicles, I have never seen one that requires the clutch pedal to bottom out to disengage the clutch. If this is true of the Fiat, that is a ridiculous design.
+funkingitup There are plenty of designs that require complete depression to disengage clutch all the way. Plenty of clutch/trans issues from manufacturers that release TSBs about it warning customers to clutch to floor over years. As habit and safety, namely in a car I don't own always foot to floor. Does the Fiat require it as well? Unknown, not likely though, so lets just agree we both have points?
Only car I've ever had that made me feel happy every single time I drove it
What other cars have you owned?
does he realize that the no1 car for recalls is Honda. with Toyota next at no2.
Driving an abarth is Go-cart-fun every time. I love mine.
And it s much more an eye Catcher than a Golf or that all other 0815 tuned cars.
Especially it s sound.
Reaction
... oh a fiat500 *girl car*...wait it looks cooler... ffffffffffrrrrrrrrrrmmm .... rear lights...and be bye.
thats abarth ;)
I am guilty of this exact reaction haha. Now I'm looking to buy one.
maybe in the US, in europe its a joke, for the money anyway
Savagegeese! I went and pulled this trigger this morning and got a 2017 Abarth and love it! Thanks for the awesome reviews and keep doing you dude!
I had the fiat 500 from 2014 to 2019, from 15000km to 105000km without any mechanical issues, battery needed replaced, brake pads and tyres, that's it
That’s the year the abarth had a slightly better turbo. It’s a great little car I’m getting mine this week
I actually love the Abarth. But Im a small car lover.
I just got an abarth, 2013 with an intake, catless downpipe, short shifter, lowered on coilovers, and a tune..I'll tell ya what this little shit gets up and goes. I enjoy this more than my WRX and I got it for it's awesome fuel economy lol
If Ferrari made a hatch.
Man that car is sexy in yellow.
I had the 1st model year for North America, 2012 and absolutely loved every second of ownership. So much personality in such a small package. I ran Eibach Sportline springs, and along with tinted windows it looked fantastic. Black w/ red stripes and a red leather interior. Never had a single issue with it the 30,000km and 2 years of ownership. I needed a larger vehicle for work, if it weren't for that I would still have her today.
I work for FIAT. So on the "EU Model" it uses a 10W50 Oil. Also the EU model has a muffler. invest some money in the 2 optional exhaust Systems. (worth every cent)
The European model has the T-Jet engine, not the Multi-air, and will thus rev quite a bit higher.
Euro model is T-Jet, hence why it can use thicker oil than multiair.
Tjet engine is a true twin cam engine, therefore can reliably make good power, unlike the multi air engine which has a pneumatic pump to operate valves.
Easily the best review I've seen on the Abarth, to date. I own a 2013 (car #23 over a lifetime) and despite its flaws it's easily the most fun car I've owned. Eclipses 2 Miatas, a 280ZX and an 1st gen Jetta GLI. Thanks for keeping it real and doing a proper review. Oy vey to that yellow color tho...
I have an Abarth and I think you brought up some really valid points. For me, it's the craziness that you mentioned that makes the car. Abarth has always been known for their weird creations, and I think the 500 Abarth follows suit. Great review!
Had 2012 Abarth until last summer when Covid dropped the price on used Alpha. Will admit the Alpha is better in every way but miss how the Fiat filled my senses and scampered through traffic. It was fun in every day driving with a few mods. The Alpha can only recreate that fun on super twisty road going at dangerous speeds. Proved adage driving slow car fast is better than fast car slow.
Fiat: fix it again, turbowski.
#LOL
Dale," Fix it again, Tony"
-King of the Hill
Lmfao
Fabricata Industrialata Automibile Turin - for the record :)
KonmaN YNWA really? You couldn’t even search it in google to write it properly?
I've had mine for 3 1/2 years. Check Engine Light warnings = 0.
It takes 5w-40 "ole" and remember to watch out for "day-bree" kicking up into your intercoolers.
It's 2024 and you can buy the Abarth for a really good price! It's my son's first car and he loves it!!
I hate when people say the exhaust is what makes the Abarth sound good. Yes, it helps, but the reason it sounds good is because the engine itself sounds brilliant. If you put an Abarth exhaust on any other car it wouldn't sound as good. The Fiat 500 has the best sounding 4 cylinder engine ever made. Abarth or not.
Not entirely true. Most engines sound exactly the same without an exhaust, the header design, length and shape as well as the exhaust design govern the sound of a vehicle, almost exclusively.
You haven’t heard my 4AGE 20v at high RPM... but I’m watching this video because I’m interested in an Abarth. I also have the best exhaust system to come out of Japan for my engine so that probably helps the sound.
@@dejan. I have the 595 competzione and it is so good. Best on mountain roads. Get one you will love it.
@@Mantenner The cam profile (how much overlap), cylinder bore, and number of cylinders plays a huge role too.
Its not necessarily the engine that sounds good. Its the fact that is straight pipe. If you straight pipe a prius, it would sound almost the same. (straight piping is when you get rid of the catalytic converter which is responsible of cleaning the toxins and silencing the engine)
Reliability is like 80% factor in buying a car for me. I would NEVER buy this pile unless my GF wanted it.
I have 80K miles on my 2016. The only problem I've had was a bad 02 sensor. Very reliable so far.
I don't know how you consistently put out such high quality productions, but your videos are by far the best I've ever seen on TH-cam. Well done and please keep it up.
Put K&N airfliter to replace my stock, best highway mileage 5.5/100 km, last year was 6.3/100km
The red-painted brake calipers create pixie dust deposits on the wheels.
Great review. Bought my 2015 Abarth back in November and I love it. Thing is an absolute blast to drive. It's got its funky quarks, but that's what makes it fun and gives it personality. I couldn't be happier with my choice in buying this little pet mouse on wheels
I LOVE LOVE LOVE MY ABARTH!!!!! ...YO!
will you still love it when it breaks down on you?
@@whathappenswhen4767 thats half the fun
What happens when sometimes turning a wrench = LOVE
I have a 2016 wrx cvt. Im looking at getting the abarth in auto. How much slower is the abarth then my 2016 wrx
I'm pretty sure it is pronounced "abarT"
Either way✔️😂
Either is better than ah-bath.
@@surfside75 It's actually "Abart"
@@ilpatongi who came up with that!😐🤷 -you are not Jeremy Clarkson, prove me wrong and invite me over for a spot of tea dear 'ol boy😂
@@surfside75 I'm not Clarkson, obviously, but I'm italian and I can assure you that "Abarth" is pronounced that way because he was born in Austria and it's with a hard "T" there too.
I have a 2012, so I am a little late to this video. Owned it for 6 years now with only 25,000 miles on it. As somebody who has owned an original 850 Spider, 128 Sedan and 3P, and more 124 spider than would be healthy to mention, one thing that irritates me is how everyone gets the seating position wrong on the 500. You do not sit upright and high so you can see in traffic or so the car feels more substantial. No, you sit upright and high because it is a small car and that is the only way to fit 4 seats in a vehicle with a 90" wheelbase. In comparison, the Miata has a 90 inch wheelbase, there is no way in hell to fit 4 people inside the wheels with the seating position as laid back as it is in that sports car.
It's all about packaging. If you want to fit 10 pounds of shit into a 5 pound bag, you need to make sure it is a very tall bag.
I absolutely love your description of this car. It does what it says on says on the tin. Wow, what a sound from such a small engine. Luv it.🔥🔥🔥
everyone seems to love Turbowski but he adds almost nothing to the conversation just smart ass remarks.
My 2002 Mini doesn't sound as good, even with the aftermarket exhaust, but it will walk it all day.
And your Mini doesn't have HALF the Soul and Italian Charm either ;)
@@1970borntorun did you say something from WAY BACK THERE?
Time and Time again, over the years, Soul, driving feel and charm win, over ( as he said here ) "Technology" and just straight-line speed. And I'm not saying this as a "FIAT Fanboy". I've owned BMW's, Porsches, FIATS, and Alfa Romeos, and I'll take the Italian car that wins my Heart EVERY time over a car that gets me to 60 MPH faster.
I never comment on car reviews. But I loved this review. Excellent job.
Honestly, this is the best and most honest review of the Abarth I have seen. I owned a 2013 Abarth for a year and a half and it was the most fun car to drive I have ever had...even better than my Miata. For two people it was fine and, as you said, with the back seats down there is enough space to bring what you want. As you stated, Abarth owners love their cars, even if they have problems. I never had a check engine light come on. I did fine however, in the cold climate of Vermont, the rubber bushings in the suspension would harden up until they were like a rock, and every time you hit a bump, your teeth would rattle. I had to have them replaced twice, as they cannot handle extreme cold without hardening up. Chryslers do not have that issue, so I am not sure why they could not make one that wasn't temperature sensitive. I also had to have the lower steering shaft replaced. None of the work cost me a dime, as all were covered by the warranty. Ultimately, I only sold it because in the deep snow here in the Northeast, it sucked, as you would expect on a car that rides so low to the ground. But with all that, I still loved it. Just a short drive with that incredible exhaust note permeating the cabin has a narcotic effect. I still miss it, and if I lived in a warmer part of the country, no doubt I would still have it!
So far mine is good in snow less than 3 "..I also live in northeast
i own both a Miata and a '13 Abarth...you've been drinking too much fiat koolaid if you think the abarth is more fun than the miata. Only thing the abarth is good at is straight line speed. otherwise it handles like crap and rides worst. The only reason i still have the abarth is the ridiculous depreciation, otherwise it would have been gone after the first yr.
Hugo, you obviously have never owned an Abarth. They are incredibly fun! Handling is great! Sound is amazing!!!
It's that obvious huh? go back and re-read my comment.
To each their own, Hugo. You should come to understand that not all people feel exactly the same way you do. You enjoy the Miata better, and he enjoys the fiat more. End of story. Don't try to discredit him because they don't line up with your own OPINIONS.
The brutal honesty is absolutely appreciated! And like mentioned below, the under-body shots are a nice touch in the video.
You never mentioned the backfire during shifts. That's the best part!
+Scott P I would love that. It's like my VW GTI and it's DSG fart on upshift. #racecar
+Candice Juliano Shooting It's all about the #backfire
+Scott P @14:57 yeah, never mentioned...
+Wesley Green Ha, I blew it.
+Wesley Green Turbowski trolls his own artwork and productions.
No disrespect to the reviewer, but when he complains about the sound system, I can't help but think, who the h*ll is listening to the radio when driving a 500 Abarth?
It was more of a point to say don't spring for the extra money, its bad.
fair enough, and I wasn't much complaining about your review, rather that I'm much rather listen to this car than any stereo...
Try pulling the doors off.. Sounds glorious!
Pretty much everyone, given it's a city car.
what about the abarth 124 spider? it has BOSS sound system.. LOL
looking for you to review one
I bought one of these cars and don`t care-a-less how reliable it is. It is easy to work on if you care to wrench it. I have also owned the same tool box for forty years anyway. . . .Lol.
I forgot to add: It`s the funnest car I have ever driven [for the money].
Bought a used 2012 500 Sport 5 speed with 35000 miles on clock.
Its been over a year since purchase. Now have 47000 miles on it. Have averaged 34 mpg all year.
Handles like a go kart, plenty fast for me- remember this is not the Abarth.
No reliability issues.
My wife just bought a demo 2015 500L Trekking, fully loaded. She loves it.
Still no issues with your fiats? I bought one.
The Abarth engine tends to be more reliable than the regular 500 engine.
@@superbford That's what car salesmen have been telling me too.
Having an FR-S, I consider it one of the best budget sport cars ever made. Not fast, but fantastically balanced with superb feel. The Abarth doesn't have that - however, it's fantastically fun. It's zippy and the exhaust note just makes you feel like you're in some bubble Ferrari. The Beats by Dre audio system really is disappointing. Very poor clarity and quality of sound. Anyone thinking of that, skip it and do it properly for $1,200 at an audio shop.
Great review, made me want one. Refreshing to watch a review done by knowledgeable even-handed people with a positive outlook and a novel approach e.g. when showing the underside which I've not seen and appreciated before.
Why would you rate a car if all your going to do is make fun for the car ... This little car is bad ass
Ugh... I'm always bewildered when I hear these reviews.
They NEVER point out the #1 thing about the Abarth. It is simply the happiest car on the planet. You simply can't drive this thing without a huge goofy grin on your face.
He picks on having to raise the seat to get the wheel in a useable position. I'm curious as to how tall he is. I'm a larger fellow, 6'3", 235lb, and it was a perfect, I mean PERFECT fit. And as for the boost audio... I wanted to experiment with this so I brought some Yo-Yo Ma, Metallica, Adele, and Pearl Jam. It was brilliant! Granted, most of the time one will just enjoy the burble of the exhaust, but if you're in traffic, you can enjoy your tunes--no problem.
Bottom line, the 500 Abarth is a terrific, happy little car. And for the money, there simply is no way to beat it.
I'm 5ft 7 220 I'm a wide fellow is this thing comfortable?
I'm looking into getting one because it's different than everything else.
@@rencaelum4396 I'm 5.7 250lb (Yes, a bit chubby) I didn't really have any problems in the one day I rented one. Beware though... Reliability is GOD AWFUL, don't go on long road trips in the mountains unless you'll have signal to call a tow truck.
Its been proven, and isn't a myth. Stay safe and have fun!
Gary Geer I see someone didn’t watch the whole thing 🤦🏼♂️
@@ChandlerCharityTV thats hilarious because I just got back from a 1200 mile trip in mine with now 94k miles... Hmmm 🤔
@@chocolatetampon4492 I certainly hope it'd survive a 1,200 Mile road trip with less than 100k miles logged.
100k is just the breaking in point for most cars (Non-American or Italian)
Give me a status update at 150k, seriously.
Most of the people that own one of these start adding electronic devices to improve engine performance. That resulted in lots of throwing codes. I sold my 2013 after 6 months. I loved most aspects of the car. I got tired of filling it with gas every day. I had a long commute and the Abarth made it fun. But on the way home the gas light would come on. I got 25mpg driving the snot out of it. The light came on with two gallons left in the tank. I had to fill it every day. Used ones are stupid cheap now so I am looking for one with the color and options I want. Great review.
I am a simple guy, I see a Fiat 500 and I fall in love.
A super car
Is my favourite car
He says the sound system is trash but when he showed his EQ settings, the bass, mids, and treble were all turned up. Don't do this! It's actually best to turn down the bass maybe -1 or -2, have the mids at 0, and turn the treble up +1 or +2. Thats a broad EQ that will almost always improve "clarity" of a stock sound system. Unless it's aftermarket and able to handle more power, you should always attempt to decrease the amount of bass because of distortion, and the highs turned up to overpower the sounds of exhaust and road noise. I highly doubt savage will see this but if anyone benefits from this, please spread the word if you hear a shitty sound system in a car. They probably just have their bass turned up all the way because the BASS BROH...
Very true! But, all in all, Beats audio is junk.
Agreed
My beautiful and amazing mistress it was actually a smart move, this car is pretty inexpensive so lots of younger people will be looking at it. And young people tend to adore Beats, so in a way Fiat knows their market. Hahaha
I bet he knows that. I read that opening up the tweeter grills and reversing the phase of the sub helps tremendously. Great video, I want one!
Beats is notoriously trash tbf. They add a lot of bass into their eq when in reality a flat response is usually best.
It's fun to re watch these old episodes which I religiously watched as soon as I found out about it. Strange that you guys have been, in some small way, part of my life with a viewing habit for 8 years already. I still miss turbowski sometimes but you have become the best car reviewer on this platform. I bet there were times you wanted to quit or doubted if this TH-cam thing would really work out but look in the comments, it's non stop; you are the best car journalists on You Tube, best, best and as you proved with your review of the Civic Type R, if you can get emotions captured so that we see the joy, or disgust, people will respond because the emotions are real, but to actually film that in such a beautiful way is not easy. Takes probably lots of hours to edit that so we the audience "gets it". Mad respect Mark, you are a rare breed. May God bless you richly for all the joy you have given me these past 8 years.
I am moving onto my second Abarth, I will say one thing to any current owners or future owners, don't just floor the throttle, the turbo needs time to catch up as there is a small amount of lag. Let the turbo begin to boost and then ease the throttle in, in addition if you change gear during this process you get some incredible back fire. Lastly, stick the Record Monza exhaust on this car, you will not be disappointed. (Current 2015 595 Turismo, Future 2017 595 Competizione)
nice tip
1. This is the multiair engine. 2. This has a gt1446
3. What? You don’t have to let anything catch up???
The only rig at your local autocross event that you’ll see 2 wheelin it in the slalom.
#FreeTurbowski
How have I never seen these reviews before, they're fantastic... Very well done, good sir. 😀
loved my Abarth but it required 10k to be except-able, and when under steer happens youll never forget it. The Focus ST rotates at its limits rather than bull dosing off the side of the mountain. But Fun wise the Abarth is a blast Ill give it that
the steering gets heavier when you're in sport
The only FWD car I would be excited by.
The Bose sound system was amazing! I wonder why they switched to Beats.
someone paid someone
Bose is better.
I've had 30,000 miles and 3 track days on my Abarth and haven't had a single issue. This car is incredible.
I've always liked these Abarth 500s...I've considered one for my 60 plus mile daily commute.............but I really want an S2000 more! :)
+Alex Moran it's a hell of fun car. you should test drive one.
akrokdesign Browsing through your videos, I can tell it is alot of fun :)
As much as I'd love to have a S2000 I love my Abarth! :)
S2000s are old, beat...difficult to find one that hasnt been beaten.
Alex Moran I drove a s2000 at my work and was shocked at how solid the front frame is. very nice boxed frame. revs nicely. fun car. probably slightly better than Abarth overall and a good investment
Love our little '17 Abarth, even though we have to "prime" it every time it sits for more than a few weeks. The "Beats Audio Exhaust by Dr. Dre" joke aged way too well, given the electric Abarth's horrendous simulated exhaust speaker.
Really enjoyed this... Glad you were able to see what us owners appreciate about the 500.
What a great run down for this car, I'm bias because I have one. I'm on my second 500 and it's one of the few, if not only small drivers cars (the car is small, I'm 6'3") left in the US besides a Miata. The Mini has gotten too big for me and it is no longer the go-cart it once was. I have a 2019 and it is the last rendition of this platform, it will no longer be available to us. Even in Los Angeles this car is unique, no one expects that howl coming from it's ass- straight pipes? Who the hell does that? Fiat does. So since I won't need an aftermarket muffler I purchased a set of coilovers and a sway bar, see you at the track.
What an in-depth and utterly enjoyable review, expertly and superbly produced, professionally edited, and at the same time super insightful. After seeing your unbiased and sincere reviews, anyone considering buying any of your reviewed cars knows exactly what they're getting into. You are going places, big time. Thumbs up! P.S. I live in a country far away and I am very happy to share your work with all my friends who are car enthusiasts.
+Mihai Scortea Thanks, glad you are enjoying these videos and they are not just a total waste of time. It's always funny to me that people far and away find them and like them.
This is one of the best looking cars I've ever seen and I don't understand how it's being presented here. Same in many other reviews. This is the coolest thing on the road in fucking years.
you should test mx-5 and 124 spider
mx5 has been done already.
Excellent review. Cool review of a cool car. I'm buy-in' one - probably the Competizione.
Great editing work
My car always has a check engine lit and feels brand new.
Not actually true! These cars are not a "check engine" light fest. I qwn a 2013 Abarth with 72.000 miles with no major issues! I absolutely love it! I also know quite a few other people who own one with no check engine light issues as well. I will be getting another Abarth in the near future! No doubt! The best car I have owned!
I've always read that the Abarth engine is very reliable... especially compared to the regular Fiat 500 engine. I know a happy owner with 91000 miles on his 2013 Abarth.
Still don’t understand how you don’t have 1 million subs.
Scott is awkward as hell sometimes but man would I let him plow me.
Also, this comment is awkward...not sorry.
James Fish lol
I have a 2012 non-Abarth, regular Fiat 500. So far it has been very reliable. I had one warranty repair to fix a loose steering column and one recall for the clutch pedal.
I have a 2013 Abarth. Your assessment of this vehicle is spot on. It does however confuse me that they even put a back seat into this vehicle. They should have made this car a two seater and put a spare tire mount into the back. That would have been far more practical for this car.
Nunya Buzinezz I took my rear seat out and it changed it for the better. with a socket set and a torx set I had the rears out in just a few min. it's the best mod to do to this car. now I can fit 2 guitar amps and 3 guitars without issue.
Less weight too.
Christian Forbes Are there kits available to make it a covered storage area and/or carry a spare tire? I’m thinking of buying a 2013 to mod it but I live in Montreal and despite garaging it I will have some snow & cold issues. Alternative is new GTI or NC Miata.
Take the doors off...!
there is a spare tire kit available from fiat, you'll have to drill 4 holes in the trunk area and the tire goes under the car.
Love your yellow Abarth~ great racy color scheme! "There's scorpions everywhere" hah, so right on. I can fit a week's worth of groceries in my 2017 Abarth (but I use the front passenger seat as well). Wow, I'm getting 39 MPG in mine. But, with that said, I don't take it to the track or sling it around at all. It is my daily driver. You are so right...the driver feels connected to the car when driving. You nailed this review perfectly. Loved it! Thank you for sharing; I subbed.
Also, by the way, the correct pronunciation is Ah-bart, not Ay-barth
I really enjoy the Hill-Start control. It is by no means necessary when you are skilled and quick with that clutch pedal and throttle application but i find it nice to have in certain situations. Had it in my 15 Fiesta ST, in my 15 STi and now in my 18 Focus RS. And frankly I never felt like it was invasive, holding back the car and risking to stall it.
Of course it’s a feature that the hardcore gearhead will most likely shit on saying it’s for ppl who can’t drive but it can be really useful when you have someone behind you who seems to really like hugging your rear end. No need to stress out wondering if you’ll be quick enough to roll off without rolling back a little and risking to hit it. Or maybe when the music is a little loud and you can’t hear the engine much. (I find it difficult to do a good start when I can’t hear the engine...)
Great review! I have a question. Is it just me or does he seem like he is stomping on that clutch pedal every time?
Just an American changing gear
@@jambammz9908 It's called spirited driving pussy boy
Final, Final Thoughts - Ok, I think Fiat is onto something. A simple car that's fun to drive. Brilliant! Now if somebody would get rid of the dimension sucking black holes known as "Infotainment", Butt-Wipers, and Automatic Tampon Dispensers... Oh, and give me hand crank windows, and a simple radio - the kind that fades out under underpasses. Thank you.
+dan noyes Need hand crank start as well!
+dan noyes There you go. "Infotainment" is such a gimmick if you ask me. Let's load the car with all this nonsense and poor visibility but then create a bunch of nanny's to drive the car.
And bring back carbs. With manual choke dammit! The whole thing started to slide when they put tape players in cars.
Probably the best all-around car review I have ever seen, and that is saying a lot. You answered a lot of questions I had, from cargo capacity to understeer capacity, to the meaning of fun in a car. Kudos to you, I have watched probably thousands of "reviews" over the years and you nailed the right balance between information, expertise, mechanical know-how, and driving impressions.
One thing though, the pronunciation:
Italians, tend to say "eh-BART,' " while others pronounce the name "AH'-bart," accenting the first syllable.
It's definitely not "A-Barth"
men its "hecho en México" xD, greetings!
Top two finalists for me were the abarth and the 2007 Miata. Could barely sleep trying to decide. In the end I went with the Miata mostly because of simplicity and holding its value better. I have a feeling I will always wonder if I should have went abarth. So much fun. I came from 17 years of the mini. People that hate on the abarth need to get in one.
I bought the 2012, wife and I love this car and won't sale it.
40k on mine, not a problem.
Bought a used Fiat 500 Abarth @ 7000 miles, @40000 now, haven't had a single problem through summer and snow, very happy with the reliability.
My Fiat (not an Abarth) needed a new Steering Rack after 45k (Km) cost from Italy was around $4000. Fixed it then sold the car for $7000. So yeah, better luck to you.
I won't sell mine either. Actually, I want another one in different color.
I had the Fiat Bravo, same engine as the Abarth (T-Jet), sold at 200k km, the car didn't have a single problem. This engine rocks.
Had mine just under 2 years and covered 19k and not one issue at all......I've not heard of any reliability issues either! Car has been superb
Jeez, you don't have to stomp the clutch every time you shift.
***** Maybe for a Nascar driver lol. I've been driving a manual stick shift for over 10 years and I've never felt the need to curb stomp my clutch.
10 years. You must be a youngster.
The way he stamps on that clutch pedal is unnecessary
Do you want to grind your clutch?,
I mean to not wear the clutch it is safer to go all the way down and match the engine while lifting?
He’s a much better driver than you... there’s nothing he is doing wrong..
And for everything that doesn't fit inside, that's what roof racks are for. Try driving an American-sized car through a medieval European city, and see how far you get before you're wedged somewhere and can't get out.
I know this is one of your older videos but I had to comment..I earlier this year, traded in a 2015 Fiesta ST for a 2013 Abarth....Absolutely loved the Fiesta but I wanted a change...in terms of pure driving the Fiesta has it all over the Abarth...however what makes the car so good can also leave you a bit cold...it lacks a bit of personality like modern VW's...the Abarth..the minute you start it up makes you grin..the crack of that exhaust....the backfire on a downshift...and the car itself..got mine for about 10K USD...would never buy one new..used though..for sure. Thanks for your great video...car honestly hasn't changed much from 2013 to 2016.
I didn't buy this Fiat for storage, I bought it for fun factor-1000% fun! You feel the raw power like your flying nude on the road. I don't give a dam about the twerks of power windows etc, this car is fun and period. Just got mine last week and I drive to work with a smile each morning. I work at a very stressful job, a call center, this Fiat puts a smile when I go home. As for the speakers, who cares, only sound I want to hear is the horse power when I drive and that amazing pop.
I dig it...
Veeery good review. Very thorough. 20k on mine, no problems at all.
Is it me or does the mechanic dude have a bit of a Steve Brule thing going on?
+MultiJebusChrist Dingus
Lol this is why you guys have the best car show out there (not counting Regular Car Reviews). :D
Oh great comment and observation!
Ive got a standard 500 in Yellow and it looks better with Yellow wing mirrors and without the horrid Abarth graphics in black on each side , no idea how they thought that would look good ? Also i love mine so much even when the clutch and gearbox failed i paid £1000 here in the UK to repair it as its so much fun for a little car