Rendered Speculation: Abarth Roadster stings again
The prospect of a stand-alone model from Abarth has been an on-again, off-again proposition. Currently, the revived label is backed by two models, Punto and 500, essentially upgraded performance versions of existing Fiat models. Interests were piqued, however, when the Fiat performance sub-division opened the doors on its new factory that incorporated space for a small assembly line, said to be earmarked for a standalone model. But then Abarth spokespeople said that wouldn't have been enough to build even a small run of road cars. Rumors then surfaced that the Scorpion marque was to collaborate with Lotus to come out with an Elise-based roadster. Now the rumor-millers at Auto Express have rendered their own idea of what form a dedicated Abarth sportscar could – or in their view, should – look like.Rather than outsourcing to Lotus, AE thinks producing a unique two-seater based on the existing 500 would be more on the money. That'd mean a front-engine/front-wheel-drive setup, with the 1.4-liter turbo four carrying over in both standard (135hp) and "esse-esse" (158hp) spec. A lower center of gravity, lower curb weight and even more compact body, complete with removable roof panel, would keep the standalone Abarth nimble, while Ferrari-esque gizmos like the Fiat group's Torque Transfer Control (TTC) e-diff and shift-lights on the flat-bottomed steering wheel would help the fortunate driver keep the power under control. Of course this is all speculation and a bit of wishful thinking, but that doesn't remove it from the realm of possibility.
[Source: Auto Express]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Rick 10:35AM (1/07/2009)
I see more of an Abarth 2000 bialbero in that rendering. But anyway, keeping to its roots, a very small, very light with moderate power car. And a giant killer on the track. Which will then get it banned liked the originals were by the SCCA and other organizations in the 60's and 70's for taking out the big boys.
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pirate 11:01AM (1/07/2009)
"That'd mean a front-engine/front-wheel-drive setup"
It looks too good to be not RWD
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Flea 11:33AM (1/07/2009)
not convinced, there's a lot of mazda and a few porsche hints there, and zero Fiat.
If they do it, the front will look completely different, more like the Bravo.
And the back won't look like an mx5.
I'll give it an A for the effort, and a D- for not getting Fiat's styling language.
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