Abarth 500 Esseesse: Performance Pocket Rocket

Introduction to Italian Performance Heritage

When Fiat decided to transform its iconic compact city car into a performance machine, the result was nothing short of spectacular. The Abarth 500 Esseesse represents a bold departure from the standard model, combining aggressive engineering with an equally assertive visual identity. This iteration stands as a testament to what passionate automotive engineering can achieve when applied to a diminutive platform. The Esseesse variant elevates the entire Abarth lineup, offering enthusiasts a genuinely thrilling driving experience that defies its modest exterior dimensions.

Power and Propulsion: What Sets It Apart

The heart of the Esseesse lies beneath the dramatically enlarged bonnet, where Abarth has positioned a turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers impressive performance numbers. The standard Abarth 500 produces 133 horsepower, but the Esseesse variant punches significantly harder with 157 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. This boost comes courtesy of a refined air intake system and comprehensive engine remapping that optimizes the turbocharger’s delivery characteristics.

Peak torque arrives at a remarkably low 2,750 RPM, creating a diesel-like efficiency in how the engine delivers its grunt across the rev range. This early availability of pulling force means the car feels responsive even during gentle acceleration, though the turbocharged nature demands patience before the engine truly comes alive around 3,000 RPM. Beyond this threshold, the Esseesse transforms into a genuinely swift machine, rewarding drivers who exploit the entire rev range.

A five-speed manual transmission handles the power delivery, a refreshingly straightforward choice compared to the proliferation of six or seven-speed units in modern hot hatches. This compact gearbox enables the car to reach 62 mph in second gear alone, allowing drivers to maintain momentum on throttle without constant gear changes. While the shift itself feels somewhat softer than comparable rivals, the short throw provides adequate engagement for enthusiastic driving.

Visual Aggression and Design Philosophy

Where the standard Fiat 500 exudes charm and retro appeal, the Abarth 500 Esseesse embraces a radically different aesthetic. The visual transformation is so dramatic that it borders on cartoonish—observers have likened its appearance to a cartoon villain’s vehicle. Massive air inlets dominate the redesigned front bumper, serving both functional and visual purposes. These intakes channel cooling air to the upgraded brake system while declaring the car’s performance intentions at a glance.

The enlarged bonnet accommodates the turbocharger and intercooler, fundamentally altering the vehicle’s proportions. Extended bodywork and aggressive detailing create a surprisingly menacing appearance on a car that weighs mere kilograms. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels replace the smaller standards, filling the wheel arches more purposefully. The overall effect transforms what could have remained a cute city car into something altogether more sinister and focused. This unapologetic styling approach generates strong reactions—owners report gleeful expressions from other drivers as they witness the performance capabilities hidden within this pint-sized package.

Suspension and Handling Characteristics

Abarth engineers completely redesigned the suspension for the Esseesse variant, implementing stiffer springs and more responsive dampers compared to the base model. This revised setup includes specialized tuning to handle the increased engine output while maintaining the car’s inherent agility. The suspension package walks a fine line between providing sharp feedback and maintaining everyday driveability—a balance that works better on smooth surfaces than rough urban landscapes.

On well-maintained roads, the handling is genuinely impressive, with enormous amounts of grip allowing confident cornering speeds that belie the car’s size. The Esseesse exhibits minimal body roll during lateral movements, maintaining composure through fast direction changes. The short wheelbase enhances the sense of nimbleness, creating a car that feels like an extension of the driver’s intentions rather than a separate mechanical entity.

However, this suspension tuning comes with compromises. The firm setup transmits every surface irregularity into the cabin, making speed bumps and potholes genuinely painful experiences. The reduced sound insulation at highway speeds means constant noise filtering into the driver’s area, though some enthusiasts view this as authentic feedback rather than a deficiency. This characteristic reminds occupants that the Esseesse prioritizes engagement and performance over comfort, making it better suited to spirited weekend drives than daily commuting through damaged urban streets.

Brake System Upgrades

Stopping performance received equivalent attention to acceleration, with cross-drilled brake discs replacing the standard items. The enhanced cooling afforded by the redesigned front bumper ensures consistent braking performance during repeated hard stops. The upgraded braking system proves adequate for the modest power output, though reviewers noted it requires respect during spirited driving. The brake feel conveys adequate feedback without the metal-to-metal sensation of high-performance track machines.

Transmission Behavior and Gear Ratios

The transmission strategy employed by Abarth engineers proves particularly clever when combined with the torque characteristics. Short gearing means the car leaves first gear almost immediately, with second and third gears handling the majority of acceleration duties. This approach yields benefits in responsiveness and engagement, particularly during urban driving where rapid bursts of acceleration matter more than highway cruising ability.

The manual shift itself features a short throw appropriate for a hot hatch, though it feels marginally softer than truly hard-edged rivals. Some drivers prefer this gentler engagement, finding it more refined than the notchy gates of competitors. Others might lament the additional travel compared to track-focused machinery. This represents one of the few areas where the Esseesse embraces practicality over extremism.

Real-World Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the Abarth 500 Esseesse delivers an experience disproportionate to its modest proportions. The engine’s mid-range surge creates an almost elastic feeling of acceleration, particularly when drivers maintain lower gear selections. Approach a corner in second or third gear and you’ll discover responsive handling that rewards precision inputs. The car darts through traffic with remarkable enthusiasm, living up to descriptions of bouncing through life like an energized small dog with substantial attitude.

The auditory experience forms an integral part of the driving pleasure. The turbocharged engine produces a characterful growl that intensifies during spirited acceleration. Revving toward the limiter in lower gears generates a rorty exhaust note that contributes considerably to the overall sensory package. This acoustic accompaniment transforms even mundane urban journeys into mildly entertaining affairs.

Fuel consumption varies dramatically depending on driving style. Conservative operation can return around 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers, suggesting the engine’s efficiency when driven gently. However, actually exploiting the available performance drops economy closer to 8.7 liters per 100 kilometers. Real-world combined consumption of 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers represents a reasonable compromise for owners who balance spirited driving with occasional restraint.

Practical Considerations and Compromises

The Esseesse makes genuine sacrifices in pursuit of performance credentials. The compact interior carries over much of the utilitarian equipment from the standard 500, with cheap interior plastics and minimal ambition in the cabin presentation. There’s no cruise control, a notable omission even in 2010s hot hatches, and electronic stability control cannot be fully disabled. These practical limitations remind drivers that the Esseesse prioritizes driving dynamics over convenience features.

The narrow body and short wheelbase impose genuine constraints on longer journeys. Passengers quickly tire of the unforgiving suspension during extended highway stints. The combination of noise and vibration creates fatigue for occupants unaccustomed to raw driving experiences. This car excels during weekend blasts through scenic roads but struggles when asked to serve as a regular daily driver, particularly for multiple passengers or long commutes.

Comparative Analysis Within the Segment

When positioned against rivals like the Ford Fiesta ST and Renault Clio RS, the Esseesse holds its own despite certain shortcomings. Its engine delivers exceptional mid-range torque characteristics that some competitors struggle to match. The handling dynamics on smooth surfaces exceed expectations for the price point. However, the interior quality and convenience features lag behind comparative offerings from larger manufacturers with greater resources.

The Esseesse occupies a unique position—it’s more entertaining than economical city cars but less refined than premium hot hatches. It appeals specifically to drivers who value engagement and character over practicality and comfort. This market positioning explains why the Esseesse generates passionate responses from owners who view compromises as acceptable prices for the driving experience delivered.

Performance Specifications Summary

Safety and Ratings

The Abarth 500 Esseesse achieved a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, providing reassurance despite its performance orientation. The compact dimensions and light weight deliver certain inherent advantages in accident avoidance, though reduced mass means less structure to absorb impacts. The modern turbo engine and transmission contribute to contemporary safety standards, though the car predates many advanced driver assistance systems now commonplace.

The Driving Experience Verdict

The Abarth 500 Esseesse succeeds most impressively as a weapon for weekend driving. Its brilliant engine characteristics, responsive handling on smooth surfaces, and distinctive design create an experience that outweighs its pragmatic shortcomings. The harsh ride quality and interior compromises matter little during spirited driving on well-maintained roads where the car’s capabilities truly shine.

For drivers seeking maximum engagement and entertainment value from a compact platform, the Esseesse delivers in spades. It transforms mundane commutes into mildly entertaining affairs and weekend drives into genuinely thrilling experiences. The performance, character, and distinctive appearance justify the premium over standard Fiat 500 variants for enthusiasts who prioritize driving pleasure over comfort and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Esseesse compare to the standard Abarth 500?

The Esseesse variant adds 24 horsepower and enhanced torque delivery through engine remapping and an improved air intake system. It features revised suspension tuning, upgraded brakes with cross-drilled discs, and distinctive 17-inch alloy wheels. The standard Abarth 500 offers a more comfortable compromise between performance and daily usability.

Is the Esseesse suitable for daily commuting?

While technically capable of daily duties, the Esseesse’s firm suspension, limited sound insulation, and small cargo capacity make it better suited to weekend driving. Urban speed bumps and potholes become genuine irritants rather than minor inconveniences.

What is the fuel economy in real-world conditions?

Conservative driving can achieve around 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers, but spirited driving elevates consumption to approximately 8.7 liters per 100 kilometers. Combined EPA figures suggest 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers as a reasonable middle ground.

How does the turbocharger feel during acceleration?

The engine exhibits traditional turbo lag characteristics, with minimal power delivery until approximately 3,000 RPM. Beyond this point, it delivers mid-range torque in an elastic surge that catches many drivers by surprise given the modest engine displacement.

Is the interior quality comparable to competitors?

No—the Esseesse carries over utilitarian interior components from the standard 500, featuring cheap plastic materials and minimal ambition in presentation compared to rival hot hatches like the Fiesta ST or Clio RS.