We've already tested the Fiat 500 Abarth a few times, but we love it so much we seem to have obtained one just for the pure joy of it. And now it's my turn.
Because it's just here, dear readers, I'll be completely open and vulnerable with you. The car took a bit getting used to, at first, because the last three cars I've driven all happen to be Raph's Baja Bug. That means I'm used to a shifter that's not so much a precision tool as it is a buddy that you go hunting for gears with, and a clutch with a catch point that can best be described as "soupy."
Oh, and my boss was in the passenger's seat. He left his super soakers in the trunk.
But I've gotten acclimated to it rather quickly. I'm a bit of a child, and it's a bit of a ridiculous little car, so it's already meshing pretty perfectly with my personality. I don't really have much of a plan for it right now, beyond some city driving, so I'll be taking suggestions.
Things I like: That red stripe along the side. It's perfect, and it says "Abarth." And every other Abarth driver you see (I've seen one, they're still fairly uncommon around here, surprisingly) gives you a big thumbs up and a goofy grin. Because that's just how this car makes you feel. Also, and I know it's a cliche already, but you really do need to hear that exhaust note in person. Youtube videos do not do it justice. It's growly, it's throaty, and it actually snaps and pops on the overrun. Do you know any other inexpensive car that crackles?
Things I don't like: There's no integrated navigation system available, even as an option, in this day and age. That's kind of weird. But I've got my phone, so I guess that's alright. Oh, and the blind spots are approximately ten times bigger than the car itself. And the leather could be softer, if I'm being really truly nitpicky. At that point, though, I'm just looking for things to criticize.
I really like it. And that's after just a few miles of driving. Unlike a lot of other cars, the primary feeling you get is not one of speed, or aggression, or comfort, or relaxation. It's happiness.
If you have any questions about the Fiat Abarth 500C, drop them in the comments and I'll get to them as soon as I can.