Abarth 695 70th Anniversario: 1,949-Unit Collector’s Hot Hatch

The Abarth 695 70th Anniversario stands as a bold celebration of the brand’s storied history, transforming the compact Fiat 500 into a pocket rocket that prioritizes fun, flair, and unapologetic personality over outright perfection. Limited to just 1,949 units worldwide, this special edition pays homage to Abarth’s founding in 1949, blending vintage-inspired aesthetics with contemporary performance tweaks that make it a standout in the hot hatch segment.

Heritage and Limited Edition Appeal

Abarth, the scorpion-branded tuner synonymous with transforming everyday Fiats into track weapons, marks its 70th milestone with this exclusive model. Drawing inspiration from the original 500 Abarth that raced at Monza in 1958, the 70th Anniversario revives that legacy through distinctive design cues and performance enhancements. Enthusiasts, known as ‘Abarthisti,’ will appreciate how it captures the essence of Carlo Abarth’s philosophy: small cars with big attitudes.

Production capped at 1,949 units nods to the brand’s birth year, ensuring rarity and collectibility. Priced around €36,000 in Europe (approximately $36,586 at the time), it commands a premium, positioning it as a desirable garage jewel rather than a daily commuter. Its arrival at events like Abarth Days 2019 underscored its status as a highlight, drawing crowds with its peacock-like presence.

Striking Exterior Design and Aerodynamic Innovations

Visually, the Abarth 695 70th Anniversario demands attention. The signature two-tone “Monza 1958” paint scheme in light mint green with contrasting light gray accents evokes the marque’s racing roots, though buyers could opt for four other dual-color combinations. At the rear, the star feature is the massive, manually adjustable rear spoiler—dubbed the “Spoiler ad Assetto Variabile.”

This rally-inspired wing offers 12 positions, adjustable from 0 to 60 degrees. Abarth’s wind tunnel tests in Orbassano and Turin confirmed it generates up to 42kg (92.6 pounds) of downforce at 124mph in its most aggressive setting, enhancing high-speed stability without electronic aids. The 17-inch OZ Racing alloys, Brembo brakes, and Koni shocks complete the track-focused exterior, paired with a new contrast body kit that amplifies its aggressive stance.

• Key Exterior Highlights:
• Monza 1958 two-tone paint (green/gray standard)
• Manually adjustable 12-position rear spoiler (0-60°)
• 17-inch OZ alloys with Brembo brakes
• Koni frequency-selective dampers
• Mechanical limited-slip differential

Premium Interior: Comfort Meets Sportiness

Step inside, and the cabin exudes premium quality tailored for spirited drives. Unique Sabelt sports seats provide exceptional bolstering, hugging occupants firmly yet comfortably during aggressive cornering—these are often cited as a highlight for their perfect feel. Climate control, a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto elevate usability beyond typical hot hatches.

Aluminum-accented shifter and Monza Record badging reinforce the special-edition vibe. While compact, the interior balances track readiness with everyday practicality, including decent cargo space augmented by the hatchback design. Road noise can intrude on longer journeys, but this adds to the raw, engaging character.

Powertrain: Rev-Happy Turbo Engine and Gearbox Joy

Under the hood lies Abarth’s most potent 500 engine: a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 177-180bhp and 184-250Nm of torque (sources vary slightly on peak figures). Paired with a Garrett 1446 turbo, it demands revs above 3,000rpm for optimal thrust, delivering urgent acceleration with a 0-62mph sprint in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 140mph.

The burbling quad “Monza Record” active exhaust awakens in Sport mode or with throttle blips, emitting a raspy symphony that defines Abarth ownership. The five-speed manual gearbox, shortened by one ratio, shines with its precise, mechanical feel—grabbing the aluminum knob and rowing gears is deeply satisfying, though less refined than rivals like the Peugeot 208 GTi. Steer clear of the optional robotized automatic; testers universally panned it as archaic[10].

Dynamic Driving Experience: Thrills with Trade-offs

On the road, the 695 70th Anniversario lives up to its hot hatch billing. Firm Koni shocks and the limited-slip diff deliver composed handling, shrugging off poor surfaces while maintaining grip in corners. The adjustable spoiler aids confidence at speed, and the chassis communicates vividly, rewarding precise inputs.

However, the ride is uncompromising—jiggly over rough patches, and wind/road noise permeates on highways, as noted in owner road trips. It’s not the fastest in class, lagging modern rivals by a second to 62mph, but its characterful turbo lag and exhaust note make it addictive for back-road blasts. Fuel economy hovers around 30-35mpg in mixed driving, respectable for the power.

Technology and Safety Features

While analog at heart, tech inclusions impress: the infotainment supports smartphone mirroring seamlessly, and cruise control aids longer hauls. Brembo brakes provide sharp stopping power, and stability systems can be dialed back in Sport mode for purists. No advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise, keeping the focus on driver involvement.

Ownership Considerations: Costs, Reliability, and Rivals

At its launch price, it’s expensive versus standard 500 Abarths, but the exclusivity justifies it for collectors. Running costs are moderate, with Fiat’s reliable underpinnings, though tires and brakes wear quickly in enthusiastic hands. Rivals like the Ford Fiesta ST or Renault Clio RS offer more power and refinement, but lack the Abarth’s theatrical charm.

Resale holds strong among fans, especially limited editions. Maintenance via Fiat/Abarth dealers is straightforward, with parts shared from the donor 500.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Infectious character, stunning looks, engaging manual gearbox, premium seats, adjustable aero
• Cons: Firm ride, road noise, dated auto option, premium price, turbo needs revving

Who Should Buy the Abarth 695 70th Anniversario?

Ideal for enthusiasts craving a retro-flavored hot hatch that’s more about grins per mile than lap records. Families or efficiency seekers need not apply—it’s a second car for twisty roads and weekend track days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many Abarth 695 70th Anniversario were made?

Exactly 1,949 units, honoring Abarth’s 1949 founding.

What’s the top speed and acceleration?

Top speed is 140mph, with 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds.

Is the automatic gearbox worth it?

No—stick to the manual for the best experience; the robotized unit feels outdated.

Does it have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, along with Android Auto and sat-nav on the 7-inch screen.

How’s the ride quality?

Firm and controlled, but noisy and bumpy on poor roads—pure hot hatch.