Buying a used Abarth 595

First developed by champion racing driver Carlo Abarth in the 1940s, Abarth 595 cars have power and high performance in their DNA. Designed to be as small, agile and fierce as the scorpion that appears on the Abarth badge, these hot hatchbacks are ideal for any petrolhead that’s looking for some everyday driving fun. Find out more about the Abarth 595 and SPOTiCAR’s tips on how to buy a used one.  

What Abarth 595 models are available?  

The racing success of the original Fiat 500 Abarth, which was produced in 1958 and ran around the Monzo circuit for an entire week at an average speed of 67mph, led the Abarth range to gain a strong reputation for small, powerful performance. With the first production model of the Abarth 595 arriving in the UK in 1966, the 2007 relaunch also caused great excitement amongst car enthusiasts.   

Based on the Fiat 500 city car, the basic model Abarth 595’s 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine offers 165bhp as standard alongside a firm suspension, 284mm ventilated front brakes, 240mm rear brakes and a compact size that makes it highly agile and fun to drive. Plus, every model looks as fun as it feels, with a huge range of trim options and colours available.  

Depending on a driver’s specific needs, there are a variety of Abarth 595 models to choose from, including: 

• 595C: this is the convertible version of the 595 and has a full-length sliding fabric roof.  

• Competizione: designed to be a racier upgrade to the base model, the Competizione is fitted with shock absorbers, high-performance brakes and offers 180bhp.  

• Trofeo: this model has particular performance equipment that enables better handling and stability, including Frequency Selective Damping and Abarth Telemetry.  

• Turismo: inspired by the style of Italian Gran Turismos, this model has premium interior features and extra technologies to enhance driver comfort and safety.  

• Scorpioneoro: a hot mini hatch with 17-inch gold alloys, this limited edition model offers plenty of style and driving performance.  

• Yamaha: combining the Abarth’s links to motorcycle racing (specifically the MotoGP), this Racing Edition model is as fun and fast as you’d expect.  

• EsseEsse: this special edition has all the performance of the Competizione with enhanced exterior and interior trims, including 17in alloys and carbon fibre seats.  

Which used Abarth 595 should you choose? 

If you’re looking for a hatchback that’s spacious and practical, then the Abarth 595 is unlikely to be the best option. Designed for speed rather than daily use, the rear seats, three-door design and small boot mean it might not suit those looking for a small family car. Similarly, if you think you’re going to clock up significant mileage on the motorway, the firm suspension may make you think twice about this model, despite its engine efficiency and high levels of horsepower.  

However, if you’re someone looking for a hatchback that’s relatively low-cost to maintain and fun to drive every day, then the Abarth 595 could be an ideal option. Looking at all the models available and weighing up the different features they offer will help you get the level of performance and particular look you want.  

What should you look out for in a used Abarth 595? 

Although Fiat 500s are well rated in terms of their reliability, the high-performance nature of the Abarth 595 models means they can be subject to some bodywork damage or mechanical wear and tear. So when you’re looking at a used Abarth 595, make sure you:   

• Check the trim: taking a good look at the bodywork will help you spot if there is any accident damage. Running a check on the insurance history will also help you identify any repairs that may be required later on. Loose door handles and windscreen washer jet failure are also common problems in Abarth 595 models.  

• Test the entertainment system: early versions of the Blue&Me infotainment systems had problems connecting to iPhones, though this can be solved by an adapter and shouldn’t be an issue in later models.  

• Inspect drop links and strut tops: while out on a test drive, listen for knocking sounds when heading over bumps. This could be a sign of worn out drop links which, though not a major repair, should be taken into your cost consideration. Taking a look at the strut tops for signs of rust is also recommended.  

• Consider its mileage: although there are no known major mechanical issues with the Abarth 595 and parts are relatively cheap to replace (though this may vary depending on specific model), cambelts should be replaced after five years or 75,000 miles, oil should be changed every 9,000 miles and service intervals are at 18,000 miles.  

• Look at the service history: Abarth cars are known to attract modifications. Although there are many Fiat-approved kits out there, it’s worth checking that any changes were made using approved parts or come with a guarantee.  

Whether you’re looking to sell or buy an Abarth 595, you can get a valuation for your part exchange with SPOTiCAR. Get a precise estimation ready for part-exchange or find a high-quality used vehicle within your budget when you shop with us.