Autoblog

Romeo Ferraris 500 Abarth packs 360 tarmac-munching Italian stallions

Noah Joseph — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Europe, Hatchback, Fiat, Specialty

Romeo Ferraris 500 Abarth endurance racer - Click above to view in high resolution

Think you've seen the most hardcore 500 already? Sure, Abarth has churned out some pretty wicked versions of the retro-hatch, but even the 695 Tributo Ferrari and R3T rally machine can't hold a candle to the beast above.

Given the name, you might think this latest Cinquecento was the result of another collaboration between Abarth and its big sister companies. But this 500 is actually a product of independent racing garage Romeo Ferraris, which has rebodied the 500 in carbon fiber and fitted it with a wing that looks big enough to sustain a jumbo jet's flight path. If that's not bonkers enough, Ferraris has squeezed out an insane output of 360 horsepower from the Abarth's 1.4-liter turbo four. That's more than 257 horsepower per liter, and rivals even the similarly insane 427 Cinquecento from SEMA for pure lunacy.

Drivers Aldo Cerruti, Michela Cerruti and Mario Ferraris will be taking turns behind the wheel at the upcoming 6 Hours of Vallelunga endurance race on November 22. We'd suggest everyone else get the hell out of the way.

[Source: CarScoop]

Romeo Ferraris 500 Abarth packs 360 tarmac-munching Italian stallions originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler to outfit Fiat 500-approved dealers with specific showroom "salons"

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:40:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Marketing/Advertising, Chrysler, Fiat

Fiat 500 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Listening to Chrysler's long and rambling 2010-2014 Business Plan, it was clear that the company and its dealerships are very much looking forward to finally getting the Fiat 500 in North America. Much like what happened when BMW launched the Mini brand eight-odd years ago, it's hoped that the cute little 500 will attract a whole new customer to the Chrysler fold.

In order to properly court those new ~~wallets~~ buyers, Chrysler plans to open "specific interior showroom branded salons" in select dealerships, mostly in metropolitan areas. A dedicated set of salespeople will be assigned to sell the Fiat 500 in the States... ya know, since they otherwise wouldn't know how to sell the important car to American consumers.

There will also be a full line of accessories made available to customize the new car, which we would expect will include unique color and stripe packages both inside and out along with a slew of optional wheel designs. Whatever, make ours an Abarth and we're good. Expect all of this to take place before the end of 2010 as the Fiat 500 finally starts to show up in those selected dealerships.

Gallery: Fiat 500

Chrysler to outfit Fiat 500-approved dealers with specific showroom "salons" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat unveils rally-spec Abarth 500 R3T in San Remo

Noah Joseph — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Fiat, Specialty

Abarth 500 R3T - Click above for high-res image gallery

The little brand that could, Abarth, secures whatever few items from the growing Fiat empire it can get its hands on and takes them to the extreme. The performance division was designated to handle Fiat's rally activities, and took the IRC title in its formative year with the Punto Abarth S2000. Then they turned around and put their hot Punto on the road with the 155 horsepowerPunto Abarth and 180 hp Punto Abarth EsseEsse.

But since the scorpion brand got its hands on the Fiat 500, they've been churning out more performance variants than Porsche. The 500 Abarth debuted with 133 hp, launched with the special Opening Edition. Then the 500 got an EsseEsse version of its own with 160 ponies. The track-bound 500 Abarth Assetto Corse followed with 200 horsepower, and at the recently concluded Frankfurt show they unveiled the 695 Tributo Ferrari. More versions were interspersed, and even more are said to be on the way - but not before the rally team has had a chance to debut the new Abarth 500 R3T.

Built to Group R3T specifications, a rally formula for turbocharged cars up to 1.6-liters in engine displacement, the rally-prepped 500 packs a 1.4-liter four with a Garret GT 1446 fixed-geometry turbocharger, good for 180 horsepower and driving through a six-speed sequential transmission with twin-plate clutch and a locking differential. 17-inch OZ alloys are mounted to an adjustable suspension and pack Brembo discs all around supplemented by a hydraulic handbrake. Inside, the 500 R3T has been fitted with a full roll cage and FIA-spec racing buckets with six-point harnesses, while dry weight comes in at 1080kg (2380 lbs), the minimum for the category.

The vehicle was introduced this past weekend at the Sanremo rally, where Abarth has won two of the past three years running, and it will be used in special promotional events as part of the Assetto Corse program. Check out the details in the press release after the jump and the pair of high-res images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Abarth 500 R3T

[Source: Abarth]

Continue reading Fiat unveils rally-spec Abarth 500 R3T in San Remo

Fiat unveils rally-spec Abarth 500 R3T in San Remo originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat to assemble 500 in Mexico, build engines in Michigan?

Jonny Lieberman — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:20:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Europe, Plants/Manufacturing, Hatchback, Chrysler, Fiat

Fiat 500 Abarth - click above image for high-res gallery

For the last couple of decades, there has been a genuine dearth of affordable Italians autos for us Americans. Sure, you could buy a lightly used Alfa Romeo Milano or a derelict Fiat Strada, but then you'd be a braver person than us. Or maybe you could get your hands on a severely fire-damaged Ferrari 308, but that's a entirely different level of sadomasochism. One that we're not comfortable with. But in reality, the cheapest piece of Italian four-wheeled machinery available to us Yanks has come with a trident badge. In other words, a $100,000 Maserati.

But hey, there's some good news for working class Italophiles -- the Fiat 500 is coming! Finally, Italian design and craftsmanship in an affordable package. Only thing is, the Cinquecento is going to be Italian design and Mexican craftsmanship. Er, make that Italian design and Mexican/American craftsmanship. According to an Associated Press report, Chrysler Group LLC is planning on building U.S.-bound 500s at their Toluca, Mexico assembly plant where they build the PT Cruiser. Not only that, but the engines that power the little-bitty Fiats might be built in Trenton, Michigan. Hmmm. Not really so Italian after all, is it?

Chrysler is reportedly also planning on building another very small car along with the 500. No official word on any of the other Fiat or Alfa Romeo products that might be heading our way - yet.

Gallery: Fiat 500 Abarth

[Source: Detroit News]

Fiat to assemble 500 in Mexico, build engines in Michigan? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Topless Hotness: Fiat reportedly planning 500C Abarth cabrio

Noah Joseph — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Europe, Fiat

Fiat 500C - Click above for high-res image gallery

With the Fiat 500 still selling like hotcakes, the Italian automaker's performance division is reportedly working on a new combination to further bolster interest in the retro hatch. Melding the best elements of the 500 Abarth and the new 500C convertible, Fiat is said to be preparing a 500C Abarth for launch overseas in time for the next sunny season.

Porting over the engines from the fixed-roof 500 Abarth, the cabrio would be offered with the 133hp 1.4-liter turbo four, upgradable to 157hp with the optional Esse-esse kit. But while most convertibles loose their rigidity and gain weight when the top is lopped off, the 500C's unique roof rail structure keeps torsional twist at bay - to say nothing of the Cinquecento's iconic profile. Pricing would be competitive with the new Mini Cooper Cabrio, and with both the Abarth and convertible variants expected to appear Stateside by 2011, there's a good chance Fiat will throw this one into the mix, too.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Fiat 500C

[Source: Autocar]

Topless Hotness: Fiat reportedly planning 500C Abarth cabrio originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elle Macpherson gets topless at Fiat 500C launch [w/VIDEO]

Domenick Yoney — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Green, Fiat, Lifestyle

Fiat 500C with Elle Macpherson - Click above for high-res image gallery

Fiat held a glitzy launch for the convertible version of its super hot supermini at the Whisky Mist in London the other night and swimsuit supermodel Elle Macpherson was the first in the UK to go topless, getting her very own 500C. We're told the Australian-born model and actress received the keys to the latest iteration of the Italian-built model outside her Notting Hill home and was soon overheard telling a friend how cool and sexy she thought it was. Of course, Elle knows all about cool and sexy Fiat 500s, having previously owned the original hard top version.

Other convertible-celebrating celebrities up in da club with Edoardo Agnelli, the nephew of Fiat's co-founder, included Tesla Roadster buyer and Black-Eyed Peas guy will.I.am and Sugababes' Amelle. Feel free to check out the gallery below of Elle's famous friends posing with her new ride. Americans lusting after a topless model for themselves may have to wait until 2011 before they are able to satisfy their desire. Hit the jump for a couple bonus vids of the 500C in action and the official UK launch press release.

Gallery: Fiat 500C UK launch

[Source: MS&L London]

Continue reading Elle Macpherson gets topless at Fiat 500C launch [w/VIDEO]

Elle Macpherson gets topless at Fiat 500C launch [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Four versions of Fiat 500 in the U.S. by 2011, including Abarth

Frank Filipponio — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Plants/Manufacturing, Hatchback, Fiat

2010 Fiat 500 Abarth - Click above for high-res image gallery

Four 500s by 2011. That is the latest word out of Italy concerning the adorable Fiat 500. While the Chrysler/Fiat merger chugs along, the tiny 500 is the only model that has been officially greenlighted for American consumption under the Fiat banner. To make up for that dearth of models, Fiat will apparently offer the 500 in four different flavors when it reaches these shores: hatchback, convertible, station wagon and sporty hatchback. There's also an outside chance of a micro-CUV according to this Automotive News piece.

The "sporty hatchback" will be the Abarth, Europe's 2008 Car of the Year. Chrysler/Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne calls it "our iPod." Wonder if it's too late for some co-branding. While it might seem that a sporty wagon and sporty drop-top would be fairly easy to slot into the mix (Abarth Giardiniera SS Corsa, FTW!), we'll have to make due with those four iterations for the time being. The 500 family should be in U.S. dealerships by the first half of 2011. The American-market cars will likely be produced at a Chrysler plant in the United States or in Toluca, Mexico, but there's no official word on U.S. pricing yet.

Gallery: Fiat 500 Abarth

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: Four versions of Fiat 500 in the U.S. by 2011, including Abarth originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Seat of Power: Abarth Corse by Sabelt

Noah Joseph — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Fiat

Abarth Corse seats by Sabelt - Click above for high-res image gallery

We sure hope that when Fiat makes it to North America, they bring the Abarth performance brand along. With their Scorpion sub-brand, Fiat has created an intriguing formula that bridges the gap between factory performance models and aftermarket components. Buy a Grande Punto Abarth or 500 Abarth, for example, and you can always upgrade later to the even faster "esse-esse" spec later on with dealer-installable kits available from the factory.

As if we needed another reason to love the Italian hot hatches, Fiat has now inked a deal with their kindred spirits at Sabelt to offer a set of special sport seats. The buckets are crafted on lightweight frames and are available in either a grippy technical fabric or sumptuous Frau leather with Alcantara inserts. Both feature glossy white shells and come in black with red top-stitching, the Abarth name embroidered on the headrest, the Scorpion logo on the tilt knob and slots to accommodate a racing harness. Sure, by themselves a pair of seats are nothing to get all riled up over, but installed in an Abarth hot hatch, they make for a compelling package...and one more reason to anticipate Fiat's return to these shores. Details in the press release after the jump and images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Abarth Corse by Sabelt

[Source: Abarth]

Continue reading The Seat of Power: Abarth Corse by Sabelt

The Seat of Power: Abarth Corse by Sabelt originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More details on the 500-hp Ariel Atom 500 V8

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 28 May 2009 11:28:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Supercars

Ariel Atom 500 V8 - Click either image for a high-res image gallery

When it comes to power and lightweight, enough is never enough. And so, Ariel (finally) gives us the Atom 500 V8, an 1,102-pound roadster boasting the highest power-to-weight ratio (1,000 hp-per-ton) of any production car to date. How does Ariel do it? It starts with the engine and gets more insane from there.

The heart of the Atom 500 is a Russell Savory (RS Developments) 2.4-liter V8 equipped with five valves per cylinder, a dry sump and ~~a supercharger~~ (no supercharger in the U.S.) 500 hp is available at a screaming 10,000 rpm, with power being delivered to the rear wheels through a six-speed sequential Sadev gearbox.

At each corner, Alcon four-pot brakes are nestled within Dymag magnesium wheels, with carbon fiber used liberally on the wheel arches, underbody tray, rear wing and formula-style front aerofoil.

All told, the Ariel Atom 500 V8 will hit 60 in under three seconds, blow past 100 mph in less than seven seconds and can be yours for... no word yet, but expect pricing to be released shortly. Hat tip to James!

Gallery: Ariel Atom 500 V8

[Source: Ariel]

More details on the 500-hp Ariel Atom 500 V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 May 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Tata Motors says it has 500,000 Nano application forms

Chris Shunk — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Green, Hatchback, Earnings/Financials, India, Tata

Tata Nano - click above for a high-res gallery

The Nano is off to a smashing start, with Tata reportedly claiming it has already received 500,000 application forms since the car went on sale April 9. Tata Motors sent out order forms to 30,000 locations throughout India, and charged 300 rupees ($6.00 in US funds) to anyone that filled out the form. Tata Motors has generated the equivalent of $3 million so far, and interested parties have until April 25 to order their own Nano. The company is expecting between 750,000 and one million orders by the deadline, giving the Indian automaker up to $6 million in income without making a single vehicle. The State Bank of India, which has about 25% of the total orders to date, will finance the Nano for up to seven years at interest rate of 10%.

One million pre-order applications is a mighty impressive sum for the $2,500 micro car, and it's a number that Tata Motors doesn't even intend to hit in the Nano's initial batch. Tata will fill 100,000 orders in the first tranche, and it intends to hold a raffle to see which of the orders will get fulfilled. Tata Motors will begin delivering the Nano this July.

Gallery: Tata Nano

[Source: Business-Standard via Indian Autos Blog]

REPORT: Tata Motors says it has 500,000 Nano application forms originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2009: Fiat 500C rolls back to the 50's

Noah Joseph — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:39:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Geneva Motor Show, Fiat

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Fiat 500C

Making a convertible out of a fixed-roof car inevitably takes its toll on structural rigidity, though every automaker under the sun has tried to come up with a solution. For the 500, Fiat has reached back into its history to the original 1957 Cinquocente and fitted the new one with a canvas roof folding back between solid roof rails. The resulting 500C lets the sunshine in - at least, some of it - while keeping the retro hatchback's profile, which promises a uniquely Italian answer to the cabrio equation. While we wait for the 500 to make the trip across the Atlantic, we dropped by Fiat's show stand here at the Geneva Motor Show to check out the drop-top and snapped a few photos for your viewing enjoyment. Check 'em out in the gallery below.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Fiat 500C

Gallery: Fiat 500C

Geneva 2009: Fiat 500C rolls back to the 50's originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2009: Rinspeed's Abarth-based E2 concept

Noah Joseph — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 03:50:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Green, Hatchback, Fiat

Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Rinspeed E2

Usually one concept is enough to put Rinspeed on the map here at its home-turf Geneva Motor Show, but this year the quirky Swiss coachbuilder doubled down with a modified Fiat 500 that hugs the road and the planet at the same time. Joining the innovative iChange on its show stand, the Rinspeed E2 starts with the hot Abarth version instead of the standard Cinquecento, tuned it to squeeze out both extra power and extra economy thanks to a dual-mode engine management system. Painted the same shade of metallic orange as the iChange concepet, the E2 may not be quite as attention-grabbing, but extra power without the penalty is a trend we could get used to all too easily. Check it out in the galleries below and the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Rinspeed E2

Gallery: Rinspeed E2

Continue reading Geneva 2009: Rinspeed's Abarth-based E2 concept

Geneva 2009: Rinspeed's Abarth-based E2 concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 03:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat planning to ship 500, Alfa Romeo 940 to U.S. next year

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:56:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Hatchback, Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Fiat

Click either image for a high-res gallery

As soon as word hit that Fiat and Chrysler were striking a deal, visions of 500s and Alfas began dancing in our heads. According to an anonymous source speaking with Automotive News, those visions aren't too far off, and they could be realized within a year.

In a bid to kick-start Fiat and Alfa Romeo's return to the U.S., the automaker could start exporting vehicles to the States as early as 2010. After which - and assuming the reception's warm - Fiat would begin producing the 500 and the new Alfa 940 (the 149 replacement) in North America in mid-2011. At the onset, the first models available would be limited to a few thousand and would be sold through Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep retailers.

Furthermore, the deal between the two automakers would give Chrysler access to four Fiat platforms, ranging from minicars to mid-sizers, along with 1.4- and 1.8-liter engines and a new six-speed dual-clutch gearbox (internally dubbed the G365), that would pick up where Chrysler's failed alliance with Getrag left off.

AN also reports that Fiat is considering using the Chrysler LX platform, which currently underpins the 300 and Dodge Charger, as the basis for the perpetually-delayed, upper-premium Alfa Romeo 169. A rear-wheel-drive sedan with Alfa's stunning sheetmetal? Our interest is piqued, but we're not holding our breath.

Gallery: Fiat 500

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Fiat planning to ship 500, Alfa Romeo 940 to U.S. next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Fiat 500 may come to U.S. for 2010 (sorry Canada)

Chris Paukert — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 07:58:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Chrysler, Fiat, Rumormill

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Fiat 500

If some hot new rumors are correct, this week's Chrysler-Fiat tie-up could start to bear some very shiny and round fruit surprisingly soon. According to Motor Trend editor Todd Lassa, Fiat's cuddly 500 is being discussed for possible fast-tracking for American showrooms "in well under 18 months." Interestingly, 2010 is the target US launch date that has been floating around for some time now, but now thanks to the Chrysler-Fiat arrangement, there now seems to be an obvious distribution conduit.

According to MT's source, the retro-minded bubble bauble would arrive in Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep showrooms powered by a 100-horsepower four-cylinder engine and sporting a new front fascia disguising a reconfigured bumper strike beam. Interestingly, Lassa says that the car may be sold only in the U.S. and not Canada because the latter has slightly different impact standards that could be tougher to meet. America's northerly neighbors evidently require that front turn-signal lenses be able to withstand a five mile-per-hour impact without cracking (many such lights are used as government-mandated daytime running lamps) and a modified 500 may still not be able to meet this standard.

Gallery: Fiat 500

[Source: Motor Trend]

REPORT: Fiat 500 may come to U.S. for 2010 (sorry Canada) originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Abarth Coupe ala Autocar

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 09:02:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Europe, Fiat, Rendered Speculation

Autocar has cooked up the latest rendering of the forthcoming Abarth Roadster, and while it keeps the basic shape of previous images, it adds a more distinct Fiat flavor to the front.

The Roadster will form one prong of Abarth's three-model lineup, joining the Punto and 500 variants, but will be based off a new platform, complete with an engine mated amidships, shared by a new Fiat Group vehicle, likely the Lancia Fulvietta.

Power is expected to come courtesy of the 500 Abarth's turbocharged 1.4-liter, putting 135-150 hp to the rear wheels. Sales are likely to begin sometime in 2013 and the Abarth Roadster is expected to carry a sticker price of £12,000.

[Source: Autocar]

Rendered Speculation: Abarth Coupe ala Autocar originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Oct 2008 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paris Preview: Fiat Abarth 500 esse esse revealed

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 20:01:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Paris Motor Show, Hatchback, Fiat

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Fiat 500 Abarth Esseesse

The first official images of the production Fiat 500 Abarth esseesse (SS) have made their way onto the Web and as suspected, it's as racy as a hot hatch can get.

The esseesse is fitted with a full body kit consisting of a new front fascia, lower side skirts and a redesigned rear bumper housing a diffuser and pair of chrome exhaust tips, while 17-inch (?) wheels and a small spoiler round out the appearance package.

Inside, a set of bolstered buckets keep drivers planted in the bends and expect a revised IP, red trim and Abarth logos emblazoned into the dash. No engine specs have been released yet, but expect the turbocharged 1.4-liter to put around 160 hp through a six-speed manual before it reaches the front wheels through a Q2 Torsen C limited slip differential.

All the details will be revealed next week when we make the trek across the Atlantic to cover the Paris Motor Show. Stay tuned.

Gallery: Fiat 500 Abarth Esseesse

[Source: Autoblog.it]

Paris Preview: Fiat Abarth 500 esse esse revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Sep 2008 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comically Sinister: Fiat 500 Diabolika by StudioTorino

Noah Joseph — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 14:27:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Europe, Paris Motor Show, Hatchback, Fiat, Specialty

Click on either image to view in high resolution

As if the Fiat 500 didn't look cartoonish enough as it was, a special edition of the retro supermini has been created. But truth be told, the Fiat 500 Diabolika looks far more badass than the original, sporting a matte black finish with red tail fins, Borrani wire wheels, Brembos and special Pirelli tires hand carved with the Diabolika eye motif. The interior is decked out in black leather interior with all manner of custom touches from the digitally-painted "serial art" frames to the special steering wheel, shifter and handbrake lever.

Conceived in collaboration between StudioTorino, Mycrom and comic book publisher Astorina, only 50 examples of the special edition will be offered, at an as-yet undisclosed price. We're expecting to see the devilish little Cinquecento in Paris, but in the meantime you can check out the images in the gallery below.

Gallery: StudioTorino Fiat 500 Diabolika

[Source: ZerCustoms and CarScoop]

Comically Sinister: Fiat 500 Diabolika by StudioTorino originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Sep 2008 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Fiat 500 "Cabrio Coach"

Noah Joseph — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 07:58:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Fiat

The only thing that could possibly make the Fiat 500 any cutesier than it already is - short of a Hello Kitty sticker job - would be to turn it into a convertible. Castagna tried its hand at just that with the unique Tender Two concept, but the latest batch of spy shots indicate that Fiat's own is getting closer to completion.

In fact, reports now indicate that Fiat will offer not one, but two different types of convertible Cinquecentos. The one seen in the spy shots is being dubbed the "Cabrio Coach" and features a retro-style targa top, with a solid frame and a cloth folding roof sliding back in between the bodywork frames. The roof style, not unlike the back end of the bizarre Maybach Landaulet at the complete other end of the spectrum, will offer buyers a rigid frame and unmolested lines for the cloth-roofed retro-mini. A second, full convertible version is also expected, while engine options are expected to carry over from the existing model, including the 68hp 1.2-liter eight-valve four, the 100hp 1.4-liter 16-valve four, the 74hp 1.3-liter 16-valve turbodiesel and the upcoming 900cc two-cylinder engine. No telling at this point, however, if an open-air Abarth version is also in the mix.

[Source: NextAutos]

Spy Shots: Fiat 500 "Cabrio Coach" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Sep 2008 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NSFW Pics Aplenty: Castagna Tender Two

Noah Joseph — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:02:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Fiat, Specialty

Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Castagna Tender Two

Remember the old days when relating a car to a boat was a negative thing? The Mercury Villager Nautica Edition certainly didn't do much to convince us otherwise. But those days are long behind us, replaced by Range Rovers designed by naval architects, Volkswagens with poop decks, Audis that require their own crew to dock park and even Rolls-Royces with teak decking, to say nothing of Fiat's own Portofino concept. Castagna has a well established expertise in turning retro hatches into pseudo-runabouts, case in point the new Tender Two, based on the Fiat 500, which we brought you a few days ago.

In case you didn't get enough from the solitary initial picture, Castagna has floated us a whole mess of high-res pictures for your viewing enjoyment. Just click on the thumbnails below, but we'd suggest waiting until you get home, because where there are stylish boats, there are bound to be girls in bikinis.

Gallery: Fiat 500 Tender Two by Castagna

[Source: Castagna]

NSFW Pics Aplenty: Castagna Tender Two originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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eBay Find of the Day: 1966 Giannini Fiat 500

Noah Joseph — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 07:02:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Classics, Auctions, Fiat

Click to view the '66 Fiat 500 Giannini Tony Stewart

What would Luigi make of this? The little Fiat 500 from Pixar's Cars said he only follows Ferrari, but then his cousin shows up, decked out in NASCAR livery.

This original 1966 Fiat 500 has been tuned by Italian racing garage Giannini, with a tiny 700cc two-cylinder engine capable of taking the quaint little Italian up to 100 mph and return a staggering 60+ mpg. To set it apart from ordinary Cinquecentos, this example has been decked out in decals mimicking Tony Stewart's NASCAR racer, ready to cheer from the sidelines at the Piston Cup. The car was listed in excellent condition with no rust, and recently sold on eBay for just $7,700. Check out the images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Giannini Tony Stewart 1966 Fiat 500

[Source: eBay Motors via CarScoop]

eBay Find of the Day: 1966 Giannini Fiat 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 07:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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