Fiat are set to release a limited edition version of the Fiat 500 Abarth: the Fiat 500 “Opening Edition”. This limited edition model has a tweaked version of the Abarth turbocharged 1.4 engine that will produce 160bhp at 5750rpm and 230Nm of torque at 3000rpm.
The Abarth Opening Edition is fitted with drilled discs front and rear; performance brake pads; new 17” alloys with a white or titanium finish and fitted with low profile 205/40/17 Pirelli P Zero Nero tyres. In the engine bay there is also a new BMC air filter to aid engine breathing.
With these modifications the Abarth Opening Edition will go from 0 to 62mph (100km/h) in 7.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 131mph (211km/h) through a 5 speed gearbox. This is an improvement of 0.5 seconds in the 0 to 62mph and an extra 3mph at the top end over the standard Fiat 500 Abarth.
Externally the Fiat Abarth Opening Edition has few notable distinguishing features; red brake callipers (which are optional on even base spec 500’s) and tinted windows. There are two colours available, Pearlised White and Campovolo Grey and special decals. Inside it is a different story with distinctive two tone read and black leather seats, sporty aluminium and leather gear knob with red detailing and a limited edition plaque.
No official word on a release date or price but expect to pay and least £1000 more than the standard Abarth. Only 100 will be released in Italy and no mention as yet on numbers available to other markets. There was an “Essesse-Essesse” performance kit mentioned a while back that was to be released in November 2008, this may or may not be it but it may give an indication of the Fiat Abarth Opening Editions intended release date.
