For those who own a ratty, old Fiat Spider or X1/9 and dream of a day when the Italian carmaker returns to America, don’t hold your breath. But do make plans to travel to Geneva to witness the rebirth of Fiat’s performance brand, Abarth. At the 2007 Geneva Auto Show, Fiat is presenting two new cars: The Grand Punto Abarth Preview and Grande Punto Abarth S2000.
The Grand Punto Abarth Preview is a snapshot of the production car that goes on sale in Europe in September. The Grand Punto competes directly with BMW’s Mini. Power comes from a 155-hp, turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder, but buyers will be able to purchase a booster kit pushing output to 180 hp.
The Grande Punto Abarth S2000 gets us really excited but, unfortunately, is only available as a rally car. It features four-wheel-drive and a 270-hp, turbocharged four. Look for the Abarth S2000 in the 2007 Italian Rally Championship.
March 22nd, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Huh, I’d rather drive my OLD 500hp Spider!