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Faithful to the "small but wicked" saying coined for Karl Abarth's cars in the 1960s, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth arrives to America with the racing traditions that have made it a success on European roadways and racetracks – world-class performance and precision, purposeful and aggressive styling, high power-to-weight ratio and limited-production volume."Bringing the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth to the U.S. enables us to reach out to driving enthusiasts who want Italian performance at an attainable price," said Olivier Francois, Head of Fiat Brand and Chief Marketing Officer - Chrysler Group LLC. "With its lightweight, track-tuned handling and purpose-built design, the Fiat 500 Abarth brings to life the legendary racing heritage of the brand and becomes the Italian high-performance car for everyday driving."Building on the excitement of the new 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento), the new Fiat 500 Abarth is designed for track-day enthusiasts and driving purists who want the ultimate high-performance small car with the pedigree of an exclusive Italian exotic. With its all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir ® turbo engine, Abarth-tuned suspension and brake systems, race-inspired design, and technology features not traditionally included on a small car, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth unleashes the brand's legendary performance heritage to American streets."Abarth treatment" and tradition continues to deliver extraordinary results In the late 1950s, Karl Abarth believed that race cars with brilliant performance could be derived from small, lightweight, everyday driving cars – including the original Cinquecento (500). And his tradition of track-ready small cars continues today by utilizing the 2012 Fiat 500 sport as a base point for the new high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth.Staying faithful to the performance principles that made the Abarth name a success, the new Fiat 500 Abarth continues the brand's motorsport traditions, including:• Everyday Performance Caro track-ready capability, high horsepower-per-liter engine, combined with the quality, efficiency and refinement expected in a world-class small car• Competitiveo benchmark levels of performance, track-proven reliability and durability• Aggressiveo Purposeful and functional performance design, Abarth-tuned powertrain control module (PCM) and performance-tuned exhaust with menacing sound• Attainableo state-of-the-art powertrain and chassis technology once limited to premium-priced performance cars• Racing Heritageo more than 60 years of performance and competition tuning, including active international series races today• New 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth builds on the Abarth brand's tradition of exterior and interior design enhancements added only for performance gain• Its aggressive exterior is specifically designed for aerodynamic efficiency, improved down force and maximum system cooling• No-nonsense enthusiast's cockpit provides all that is required for performance driving, as well as everyday driving comfort and convenience• Iconic Abarth shields pay homage to the brand's racing heritageThe aggressive styling of the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth embodies the Abarth brand tradition in full – purposeful and intentional details all designed to improve the car's performance, while enhancing the clean and simple design language of the Cinquecento."From the outside, the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is designed with the essence of a pure-Italian performance car – functional, purposeful and high-emotion exterior design enhancements, all stylistically blended to improve aerodynamics, engine cooling and road-holding grip," said Roberto Giolito, head of Fiat and Abarth style. "Inside, we surrounded the driver with a sporty and technical-styled 'cockpit,' encapsulated with the performance equipment and exclusive details to make the 500 Abarth a world-class performance machine."The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth takes the city-friendly proportions and iconic Cinquecento cues of the new Fiat 500 hatchback model further, with a stylistic approach to exterior aerodynamics and high-performance functionality.To improve aerodynamics – while creating the necessary engine compartment space for the all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir® turbo engine – the Fiat 500 Abarth's front fascia is more pronounced and pushed 2.7 inches (69 mm) ahead of its signature whiskers and logo" face, recalling the Abarth stylistic treatments from vintage 850 tc and 1000 tc models.Continuing the Fiat 500 Abarth's unique front aerodynamic design treatment, the signature "Abarth" shield floats on a finned surface that serves as an additional air intake. Below, the "triptych" of air intakes consists of three inlets with broader openings than the Fiat 500. For a more aggressive look, a blacked-out fascia accent integrates projector-beam fog lamps and helps direct air for engine cooling. Twin "nostrils" are precisely positioned on the front fascia to maximize airflow in and out of the two engine intercoolers (both intercoolers are visible through the "nostril" inlets).More aggressive Abarth-designed side skirts provide a vertical and athletic profile, while highlighting the iconic curves of the Fiat 500 Abarth. Abarth-designed 16-inch cast-aluminum wheels, or optional 17-inch lightweight forged-aluminum wheels, fill the flared wheel arches and provide ventilation for the performance brake system. In addition, both wheel designs allow visibility of the lacquered rosso (red) brake calipers.From the rear, a large liftgate-mounted spoiler extends the roofline of the Fiat 500 Abarth and improves the vehicle's aerodynamic behavior by creating additional down force. Below, the two-piece Abarth-styled rear fascia accentuates the road-holding stance of this high-performance 500 and optimizes airflow output with its black-accented rear diffuser. In addition, symmetric, twin exhaust cutouts deliver a powerful look, while large concentric "double tip" exhausts provide a tuned sound and Abarth-exclusive look.Paying homage to the brand's racing heritage and vintage Cinquecento-based 595 and 695 Abarth models, iconic Abarth shields are once again positioned on both driver and passenger rear-quarter panels and feature a "shot through" rosso-bianco-verde (red-white-green) tri-color arrow.For even more Abarth style, optional bodyside exterior decals pay homage to the historic models and provide the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth with a track-ready look. Available in rosso, nero and bianco, the signature Abarth triple-stripe logo runs horizontally along the lower bodyside and dissipates into a gradient rearward. Rosso, nero or bianco exterior mirror caps also are included to match the stripe.For maximum customization, the Abarth-designed 17-inch forged-aluminum wheels are available in hyper black or optional bianco paint.Expanding on the no-nonsense design and high attention to detail found on the 2012 Fiat 500, the new Fiat 500 Abarth features a performance-designed cockpit with unique appointments.The interior design theme of the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is an artistic blend of clean lines and functional performance appointments. An Abarth-designed steering wheel features a thick rim, perforated leather and flat bottom to provide the look, feel and increased roominess desired during at-the-limit driving. For easier operation, and to keep the driver's eyes on the road ahead, the Fiat 500 Abarth's steering wheel includes cruise, audio and BLUE&ME™ handsfree communication technology controls.Behind the steering wheel, the Fiat 500 Abarth features a large concentric instrument cluster with 160-mph speedometer, tachometer and trip computer. For a touch of sophistication, the instrument-panel cluster brow is wrapped in nero leather with rosso accent stitching.Unique to the Fiat 500 Abarth is the addition of an analog turbo-boost gauge with integrated led shift light in the center that illuminates to optimize gear changes.Integrating the latest in portable vehicle navigation on top of the instrument panel, the available TomTom® navigation with BLUE&ME™ handsfree communication technology features a 4.3-inch touchscreen display.Below the instrument panel, Abarth-designed aluminum pedal covers feature nero rubber trim for a decidedly racing look, while the nero leather shift knob with rosso accent stitching provides a precise feel of the shifter.Unique Abarth-styled front performance seats feature a one-piece design with large side bolsters, racing-harness pass through, accent stitching around the perimeter and integrated side-thorax air bags. The Fiat 500 Abarth's rear seat is designed to be comfortable for two adults and delivers the high quality, comfort and craftsmanship executed on the front seats. To highlight that this hatchback is roomy, the rear passengers' upper seatbacks are raised and bolstered for added back support.For a contemporary and technical look, the Fiat 500 Abarth features the center stack, radio and climate control system, as well as the headliner and pillars finished in Nero, while the four-passenger seating is available in Nero (cloth or leather) or rosso/nero (leather) color combinations.Thanks to careful analysis of the interior space, designers of the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth made an amazingly roomy and capable cabin within its city-friendly size. With built-in storage spaces, including two in the instrument panel, map pockets in the door panels and another below the center console's shifter bezel, this high-performance Cinquecento can quickly and conveniently store mobile devices and travel gear. In addition, the luggage compartment is spacious, providing a maximum of 26.8 cubic feet for gear with the rear seats folded.• New 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth features performance hardware and tuning for world-class ride and handling• Abarth-tuned chassis with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) front shock absorbers automatically provide the dampening needed for the track or uneven roadways• Lowered ride height, beefier rear suspension, larger brakes and wider tires deliver added driver confidence• 500 Abarth engineers tested the new 2012 model for more than 2 million miles• Development vehicles raced "round-the-clock" in 24-hour endurance challenges to prove durabilityLike the European model, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is designed, engineered and tested to deliver the high-performance driving and enduring capabilities needed for track use. And to make sure the 500 Abarth provides the highest levels of driving thrill, every piece of hardware and every mile of development tuning has been thoroughly examined to ensure the European model's dna is delivered to North American driving enthusiasts."The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is more than the addition of power and world-class technology, it's designed, developed and tuned to deliver the responsiveness, control and precision a performance driver wants and expects," said Joe Grace, vehicle line executive, Fiat 500 Abarth. "and for our owners who plan on testing the car's high-performance capabilities and limits, we have continued to develop from the proven European models to ensure the new 500 Abarth endures on the track."Like the European-spec 500 Abarth derived from the standard Cinquecento, the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth builds off the North American adapted Fiat 500 sport – and adds the legendary performance and handling capabilities that have made Abarth models an international success both on and off the track.The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth features an enhanced front- and rear-suspension design to deliver the precision handling, steering and refinement needed for high-performance driving.Compared with the front-suspension design of the Fiat 500 sport model, the new 500 Abarth features a unique MacPherson suspension design with a 40 percent stiffer spring rate and 0.6-inch (15 mm) lower ride height for improved handling and minimal body roll. Abarth-designed cast-iron front-lower control arms provide improved lateral stiffness, while an increase in negative camber to -1.5 degrees delivers improved grip and steering precision.New dual-valve frequency selective damping (FSD) Koni® front-shock absorbers replace standard twin-tube units and deliver an innovative two-in-one solution. This patented technology provides the road-holding and handling characteristics needed for maximum grip and performance. In addition, the FSD system actively filters out high-frequency suspension inputs from uneven road surfaces and adjusts for improved comfort and smoothness.The beefier rear-suspension design of the Fiat 500 Abarth takes the Fiat 500 Sport model's (already 300 percent stiffer than the European Fiat 500) twist-beam design further, with a reinforced rear axle with strengthened coil-spring supports for greater durability. A new Abarth-specific rear-stabilizer bar increases cornering grip. For improved handling, minimal body roll and ride-height control (when fully loaded), the new Fiat 500 Abarth features 20 percent stiffer rear springs with 0.6-inch (15 mm) lower ride.The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth features a 15.1:1 (up from 16.3:1) steering-gear ratio for 10 percent quicker steering to enhance responsiveness, maneuverability and high-performance feel. Compared to the Fiat 500 sport, the 500 Abarth features a uniquely tuned electronic power steering (EPS) calibration for increased steering response and feedback.The Fiat 500 Abarth features a high-performance brake system with an Abarth-tuned electronic stability control (ESC) system designed for at-the-limit driving.At the front, the Fiat 500 Abarth features 2.1-inch (54 mm) diameter single-piston front-brake calipers with semi-metallic brake linings for greater stopping power. Larger 11.1-inch (282 mm) (up from 10.1-inch; 257 mm) diameter ventilated rotors provide additional surface-heat dissipation. The 9.4-inch (240 mm) rear disc-brake system features single-piston brake calipers with semi-metallic brake linings to mitigate brake fade at higher temperatures. Both front- and rear-brake calipers are lacquered in rosso paint for an athletic look.An Abarth-tuned ESC system features a three-mode calibration to maximize the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth's handling capabilities on and off the track. When ESC is selected from "on" to "Partial off" or "full off" on the instrument panel, the 500 Abarth's innovative torque transfer control (TTC) system maximizes throttle performance during on-throttle cornering.Standard on the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth, 16 x 6.5-inch cast-aluminum wheels feature a race-inspired design and are fitted with 195/45 R16 Pirelli Cinturato P7 tires that deliver all-season traction and low-noise characteristics. These tires are inflated with a higher tire pressure to optimize the 500 Abarth's suspension tuning.For even more performance, larger and wider 17 x 7-inch wheels are available on the Fiat 500 Abarth. With forged-aluminum construction, these race-inspired wheels keep this Cinquecento lightweight at each corner (18.9 lbs. Compared to the standard 16-inch wheels at 18.3 lbs.), while delivering strength and track-tested durability. When equipped with these larger wheels, high-performance three-season Pirelli P-Zero nero tires feature a 205/40 r17 sizing for a wider stance and a reduced profile for improved handling.Public road and race track reliability and durability testing, initially done by Fiat prior to the Fiat 500 Abarth's European launch, was conducted again in North America to validate the recent engineering changes, as well as to collect feedback from American drivers.In addition to the 4 million development miles (6.4 million kilometers) of the North American Fiat 500, plus the quality-proven engineering of the European 500 Abarth, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth added more than 2 million additional miles (3.2 million kilometers) during its reliability and durability evaluations at the Chrysler group's scientific labs, proving grounds, race tracks and on public roads in various climates.The fleet of early production Fiat 500 Abarth vehicles was tested day and night on various public road surfaces in different North American climates to identify any potential reliability issues. Chrysler group's trained drivers also scrutinize functional aspects of each vehicle, such as heating and ventilation systems, storage compartments and window operation. The development team reviews the test results each day and makes any necessary adjustments to ensure the quality of customer vehicles.Taking a page out of Chrysler group's srt brand's durability test manual, engineers subjected Fiat 500 Abarth prototypes to 24-hour endurance events on the harsh surfaces of the nelson ledges road course in eastern Ohio. Even with a high-end performance car, many race drivers consider it a feat to finish a 24-hour endurance race without brake system, engine or suspension failures. The Abarth prototypes not only survived the challenge, but delivered dependable performance as they clocked consistent lap times from start to finish.• New 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is first to debut the new 1.4-liter Multiair ® turbo engine*• Turbocharged, twin intercooled and MultiAir-equipped 1.4-liter engine delivers an estimated 160 horsepower (119 kw) and 170 lb.-ft. (230 n·m) of torque• Addition of Turbocharger coupled with state-of-the-art MultiAir technology delivers 70 percent increase in engine rpm torque, 59 percent increase in power over base 1.4-liter engine• Heavy-duty five-speed manual transmission with Torque Transfer Control (TTC) system* estimatedTaking a page from Karl Abarth's extensive experience to increase the power and durability of the original Cinquecento's engine for racing use, the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth debuts a turbocharged variant of the proven 1.4-liter MultiAir® engine for increased horsepower, torque and performance."With the addition of a turbocharger to the 1.4-liter engine, advanced intake technology including Fiat's exclusive MultiAir system, a heavy-duty five-speed manual transmission and a host of other internal refinements to the powertrain, the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth transforms the Fiat 500 into a high-performance precision driving machine that every enthusiast will appreciate," said Mike Vincent, Platform manager for the 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine.Behind the unique rosso (red) Abarth engine cover and Abarth-designed front fascia with twin "nostrils," lies the heart of the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth – the all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine backed with a stronger, manual five-speed transmission, equal-length half shafts, 3.35 final-drive ratio, and a Torque Transfer Control (TTC) system that delivers power to the pavement.Selected as the "best International engine in 2010," by a panel of 72 journalists from 36 countries, the new 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine in the Fiat 500 Abarth is designed to meet the rigorous demands of performance driving throughout its 6,500 rpm range.Structurally, the 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine starts with a cast-iron block and an aluminum bedplate. Bore is 72 mm (2.83 inches) and stroke is 84 mm (3.31 inches) for a total displacement of 1368 cu. Cm (83.5 cu. In.).At the bottom end, a forged-steel crankshaft with select-fit main bearings is supported across four main journals. The crankshaft has been designed with lightened counterweights to reduce overall mass for high engine rpm operation.Durability is ensured with the use of lightweight forged-steel connecting rods that have been designed with a unique cross section to minimize the longitudinal and lateral bending of the rod.Lightweight pistons contribute to the overall strength of the reciprocating assembly and the engine's high rpm capability. Full-floating piston pins are used for added strength. Piston cooling jets, located at the bottom of each cylinder, contribute to fuel economy by squirting oil on the bottom of the pistons to help maintain cylinder temperatures and reduce the possibility of hot spots along the cylinder walls or at the top of the piston that could lead to detonation.Compression ratio of the Fiat 500 Abarth's 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine is 9.8:1. For optimum fuel economy and performance, fuel with a 91 octane rating is preferred and regular 87 octane is acceptable.This high-performance 1.4-liter engine also is fitted with a structural aluminum oil pan. Crankcase capacity is 4.0 quarts with a dry filter. Synthetic 5W-40 engine oil is recommended, due to higher overall temperatures with the turbocharger. And to maintain a lower ownership cost for the Fiat 500 Abarth, oil change intervals are set at 8,000 miles.The valve train for the high-performance 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine features Fiat's exclusive MultiAir fuel delivery technology. Unlike engines that rely on direct action from fixed lobes on the camshaft to control intake valve opening and closing, MultiAir is an electro-hydraulic system that can control intake air, cylinder by cylinder and stroke by stroke depending on the demands from the standard electronic throttle control (ETC) system.Actual opening of the valves is controlled by hydraulic fluid running through a narrow passage that is controlled by a dual-action solenoid. When the solenoid is closed, under highway speeds or full acceleration, intake valves are fully open much like a traditional engine for maximum power. At lower speeds, the solenoid opens, allowing oil to bypass the passage, decoupling the valves. This allows for infinite control of the valves and controls the amount of fresh air into the cylinders, reducing wasted energy that is common with fixed intake lobes on a camshaft.Spent exhaust gases are released through traditional lobes on the camshaft and exit through a cast stainless steel exhaust manifold.Ignition is through a single output, coil-on-plug system. Spark plugs are dual precious metal for durability.Fuel delivery is sequential, multi-port, electronic, with injectors located to direct the fuel spray at the intake valves in a wide spray pattern that increases fuel atomization and enhances complete combustion for a smooth driving experience.MultiAir technology on normally-aspirated 1.4-liter engines provides 15 percent increase in low engine rpm torque, 7.5 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 10 percent reduction in co2 emissions.Compared with the Fiat 500's natural-aspirated 1.4-liter MultiAir engine, the boost to an estimated 160 horsepower on the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is largely due to its single turbocharger that operates off engine exhaust and utilizes energy that would normally be wasted through the tailpipe.The turbocharger spins up to 230,000 rpm to convert exhaust heat and pressure to a rotational force that drives a compressor. The compressor draws cool air and pumps it into the intake manifold at increased pressure that results in a greater amount of air in the cylinder and hence more power.The 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo's induction system includes two intercoolers located behind the driver- and passenger-side air inlets of the Abarth-styled front fascia. the intercoolers are designed to remove heat in the air charge that the turbocharger generates while compressing incoming air (higher air density for more power). Reducing heat provides a cooler, denser air charge that helps increase the potential for more power. A cooler air charge also reduces the potential for engine knock.* estimated41The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth features several engine system component upgrades needed for high-performance driving.On the intake side, the 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo features an Abarth-designed fresh-air intake system with high-flow air filter, redesigned air box for improved air flow and smooth-flowing plumbing for maximum power and low induction noise.An Abarth-designed concentric "double tip" dual-exhaust system delivers a high-performance look with menacing Abarth-tuned sound and minimal exhaust gas restriction for maximum power.An Abarth-tuned powertrain control module (PCM) integrates all of the MultiAir Turbo's engine control functions. The PCM provides specific engine calibrations to maximize horsepower and torque in "sport" mode, and syncs with the LED-illuminated shift light for additional driver notification at the redline.An upgraded electrical system includes a high-output 140-amp alternator and 500 amp cold-cranking maintenance-free battery for increased vehicle system charging.Developed by Fiat Powertrain technologies (FPT) for high-output applications, the Fiat 500 Abarth is equipped with the heavy-duty C510 five-speed manual transmission. Proven on the European 500 Abarth models, this transmission features a 3.35 final-drive ratio for quick acceleration and faster top speed, while maintaining fuel efficiency.Designed to handle the increased torque loads, the Fiat 500 Abarth's c510 transmission includes an intermediate shaft with equal-length half shafts to mitigate torque steer. Compared with the Fiat 500, the 500 Abarth features 23 percent larger half shafts (28.1 mm diameter vs. 22.8 mm diameter in the Fiat 500) for increased strength and to reduce torsional stress in the driveline during performance driving on the road or track. To handle the increased power and torque of the new 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine, larger constant velocity (CV) joints with 53 percent greater torsional strength (2600 n·m vs. 1700 n·m in the Fiat 500) deliver added durability and refinement.Helping the driver to utilize the power of the new 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine is an Abarth-tuned torque transfer control (TTC) system. TTC is designed to control and transfer the engine's torque to the drive wheels for world-class performance and improved at-the-limit handling.The TTC system in the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth features a differential locking system that uses the mechanical differential in the c510 transmission to control torque via the electronic stability control (ESC) system. Utilizing ESC enables the 500 Abarth to transfer torque from a front wheel that slips, to one that grips.In addition, when the Fiat 500 Abarth is in "sport" mode, TTC automatically adjusts the degree of differential locking depending on dynamic factors, including vehicle speed.State-of-the-art performance and connectivity technologies are intelligently integrated into the cockpit-designed interior of the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth.The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth features a standard-equipped "sport" mode calibration for more engaging driving. Should the driver select sport mode on the instrument panel, the Abarth-tuned powertrain control module (PCM) unleashes the full power of the 1.4-liter MultiAir ® turbo with linear throttle response and a more performance-weighted steering feel.When sport mode is not engaged, the Fiat 500 Abarth returns to "normal" mode, and limits the torque in first and second gears to enhance fuel efficiency and minimize co2 emissions.An additional benefit of the Abarth-tuned PCM is the addition of a driver's shift light with turbo-boost gauge mounted left of the instrument cluster.Should the driver choose to switch to "sport" mode, the Fiat 500 Abarth's ledilluminated shift light flashes as the engine speed approaches the redline – giving the immediate feedback needed on the track or during high-performance driving.Engine information is critical during performance driving, and the Fiat 500 Abarth's turbo-boost gauge allows the driver to monitor the turbocharger's pressure on the engine.Developed as a collaboration between Fiat and microsoft, BLUE&ME™ handsfree communication technology is an in-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows the Fiat 500 Abarth driver to operate a bluetooth®-compatible phone while keeping his or her hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Using a series of voice commands, the driver can place phone calls, access the phone's address book or listen to mP3s. Blue&me handsfree communication technology supports most mobile phones with bluetooth technology.With the available TomTom® navigation with BLUE&ME handsfree communication technology, the Fiat 500 Abarth integrates an innovative 4.3-inch (10.9 cm) TomTom portable navigation device that docks on top of the instrument panel. With its large touchscreen, simple map displays with available real-time traffic, weather and points of interests, TomTom navigation with BLUE&ME handsfree communication technology is intuitive for the driver to use. And with its direct integration into the Fiat 500 Abarth's interior system, the driver is able to use steering-wheel-mounted controls to make operation even easier.For high-performance sound, the 500 Abarth features a standard bose® Energy Efficient Series (EES) premium audio system with six premium speakers and a subwoofer.for the best music, entertainment and information from coast-to-coast, siriusXm satellite radio with more than 130 channels is available on the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth.State-of-the-art connectivity and more than 35 safety and security features keep passengers of the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth connected, comfortable and secure.The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth features an all-new air bag system to offer unique protection for its passengers to meet all U.S. Regulatory requirements. Its seven standard air bags include: driver and front-passenger advanced multi-stage air bags, driver's knee air bag, full-length side-curtain air bags and standard seat-mounted side pelvic-thorax air bags, all offer enhanced occupant protection to all occupants in the event of a collision.The new Fiat 500 Abarth features a unique three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) system standard for improved braking performance in wet or panic conditions.The Abarth-tuned ESC system features a three-mode calibration including "ESC on" to "ESC Partial off" and "ESC full off."when the system is set "ESC on" (default) or "ESC Partial on," the ESC system is ready to intervene by integrating key chassis control systems including electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), anti-lock brake system (ABS) and traction control systems (TCS) to control all four wheels in response to yaw and steering input.In effect, ESC determines the driver's intentions and adjusts the vehicle's dynamic forces to maintain the driver's intended course. Should the driver exceed the performance limits of the road surface – such that the vehicle starts to oversteer or understeer – ESC instantly analyzes input from the wheel sensors and corrects the pending loss of control by applying any one, several or all of the system's disc brakes.The following is a list of the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth's more than 35 available safety and security features which include:1. Active turn signals: Turn signal flashes three times when stalk is depressed for 1 second to indicate a lane change (standard)2. Advanced multi-stage air bags: Inflates with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact. In addition, the Fiat 500 Abarth's unique driver's air bag design includes tethers to shape the air bag. The passenger air bag has a unique air bag venting system, allowing one vent of the air bag to remain open while the air bag is fully inflating. A secondary vent is actuatedas the passenger contacts the air bag at the end of a crash event, offering protectionof passengers of all sizes (standard)3. All-speed traction control: Helps to keep driving wheels from spinning during acceleration from a stop or during all speeds by applying individual brakes alone or in combination with engine torque limitation to prevent wheel slip (standard)4. Anti-lock brake system (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions (standard)5. Beltalert: Activates a chime and/or illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if the Fiat 500 Abarth is driven without beltedfront-seat occupants (standard)6. Bi-halogen projector headlamps: Provides wider, more focused light spread and improves forward visibility at night (standard)7. BLUE&ME™ handsfree communication technology: Provides an in-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows the driver to operate a bluetooth®-compatible phone while keeping his or her hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Using a series of voice commands, the driver can place phone calls, access the phone's address book or listen to MP3s (standard)8. Brake Assist: In an emergency brake situation, the system applies maximum braking power, minimizing the stopping distance (standard)9. Brake override: When a disagreement exists between the throttle and the brake, the brake signal causes the engine controller to reduce engine power, allowing the operator to stop the 500 Abarth (standard)10. brake-traction control system (BTCS): Helps to keep driving wheels from spinning during acceleration from a stop or during slow speeds by applying individual brakes to the slipping wheel(s) (standard)11. Child seat anchor system: Latch (lower anchors and tethers for children) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats (standard)12. Constant-force retractors (CFR): Regulates the force exerted on the occupant by the seat belt and then gradually releases seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner. The system features a digressive load limiter for the driver and adaptive load limiter for the front passenger (standard)13. Crumple zones: Designed to deform during an accident in order to absorb energy from an impact which decreases transfer of that energy to occupants (standard)14. Daytime running lamps (DRL): Provides additional forward illumination for improved vehicle awareness (standard)15. Electronic stability control (ESC): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the benefit in critical driving situations, such as turns, and is valuable when driving on mixed-surface conditions, including snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between driver input through the steering wheel and the Fiat 500 Abarth's path, ESC applies selective braking and throttle input to guide the vehicle back on to the driver's intended path (standard)16. Energy management system: Three front load paths designed from high-strength steel manage vehicle crush and minimize cabin intrusion (standard)17. Express down windows: One-touch driver and passenger express down window button located on the center console (standard)18. Enhanced accident response system (EARS): Features a shut-off valve and an inertia switch to immediately stop the electric fuel pump to prevent fuel loss in the case of an impact, roll-over or damage to fuel lines (standard)19. Full-length side-curtain air bags: Extends protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensors that autonomously trigger the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. This type of air bag is housed in the headliner just above the side windows (standard)20. Head restraints: Includes all seating positions (standard)21. Hill-start assist (HSA): Assists drivers when starting a vehicle from a stop on a hill by maintaining the level of brake pressure applied for a short period of time after a driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal. If throttle is not applied within a short period of time after the driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal, brake pressure will be released (standard)22. Intelligent battery sensor (IBS): Continually measures the flow of current into and out of the battery. If the battery is running low, the system intelligently shuts off less critical electrical systems to help prevent a customer being stranded due to a low or depleted battery. When IBS conducts load shedding, an icon appears in the cluster display (standard)23. Knee air bag (driver's side): Located below the instrument panel, air bag deploys when the driver's air bag deploys and is designed to properly position the occupant during impact and offer additional lower leg protection (standard)24. Occupant restraint controller (ORC): Detects an impact and determines whether a crash is severe enough to trigger air bag deployment and whether the primary or secondary stage inflation is sufficient. In addition, the controller detects side impacts and determines whether the rail-curtain and side seat-mounted (pelvic-thorax protection) air bags should deploy. Engagement of front seat-belt pretensioners are also managed through the controller (standard)25. Remote keyless entry: Locks and unlocks doors and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with the optional security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system (standard)26. Safety cage body structure: Protects occupants by managing and controlling energy in the event of an impact (standard)27. Seat-belt pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat-belt pretensioners to remove slack in the seat-belt system, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant's head and torso (standard)28. Sentry Key® engine immobilizer: uses a key fob that has an embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security code to shut off the engine after a few seconds and discourage vehicle theft (standard)29. Seat-mounted side pelvic-thorax air bags: Provide enhanced protection to the driver and front outboard passenger in certain impacts. Each side air bag has its own impact sensors that autonomously trigger the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. Standard side air bags are housed within the outboard side of each front seat (standard)30. Side guard door beams: Provide occupant protection during a side impact (standard)31. Smart pedals: The pedal assembly moves out of the way in the event of an impact to help protect the driver's feet and legs (standard)32. Three-point seat belts: Front seating positions and all rear seating positions have lap and shoulder belts (standard)33. Tilt steering column: Allows steering column to achieve a safe and comfortable driving position (standard)34. Tire-pressure monitoring (TPM): Informs driver when tire pressure is too low. Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver and the system. Individual tire pressure can be displayed in the EVIC (standard)35. TomTom® navigation with BLUE&ME™ handsfree communication technology: This innovative navigation system adds a 4.3-inch touchscreen TomTom handheld navigation unit to the standard BLUE&ME handsfree communication system. The system features an instrument-panel docking system for added driver convenience, real-time traffic, real-time weather updates and more than 7 million points of interest36. vehicle theft security alarm: deters vandalism and theft, frequently lowering insurance premiums. System protects the vehicle from theft by monitoring door-ajar switches and the ignition circuit for unauthorized entryNovember 15, 1908 – Karl Abarth is born in Vienna, Austria1930 – starts racing his own hand-built motorcycles. He becomes a five-time European motorcycle champion1939 – a near-fatal accident ends his motorcycle racing career1949 – starts the 'Abarth & c' company producing aftermarket products for production cars as well as performance exhaust systems; wins the Italian 1100 and Formula 2 championships with his first race car ever built (the 204 a roadstar, derived from a Fiat 1100)1955 – the Abarth 750 gt is launched 1956 – the Fiat Abarth 750, with a body by bertone, is presented and immediately sets a number of endurance and speed records that same year;two different versions of the same car appear with a Zagato body: Fiat Abarth 750 Zagato and Fiat Abarth 750 gt Zagato1958 – creates the Fiat 595 Abarth from a Fiat 500 and with it breaks six international speed records1965 – Fiat 595 Abarth tallies nearly 900 victories over its seven-year run1971 – Abarth is absorbed into Fiat auto1979 – Karl Abarth dies on October 242007 – the Abarth brand is re-launched in europe2011 – the Fiat 500 Abarth is introduced in the U.S.More than 10,000 individual race victories, 10 world records and 133 international titles are part of the rich racing heritage behind the acclaimed Abarth marque. In fact, success in competition has always been one of the cornerstones of the Abarth story, and it is no less important now than when Karl Abarth founded 'Abarth & c' more than 60 years ago in 1949.Abarth and the Fiat brand have a history of collaboration going back 45 years and resulting in six international records and nearly 900 individual race victories. It is with this racing pedigree in mind that fans of Abarth are eagerly anticipating the official launch of the new Fiat 500 Abarth.Karl Abarth (born November 15, 1908, in Vienna) had racing in his blood and was a five-time European motorcycle champion by his mid-twenties. This was a feat made even more astonishing when considering that he achieved this success using his own hand-built motorcycles and with no official factory support. Success came at a price, however. In 1939, Abarth suffered a near-fatal accident during a race in Yugoslavia.The crash left Abarth hospitalized for almost a year and effectively ended his motorcycle racing career. Undeterred, he remained in yugoslavia during the war, opting to further hone his mechanical skills and step away from driving temporarily. Working as a technical manager in a workshop in Ljubljana, Abarth indulged his entrepreneurial flair by taking on small engineering projects as well as researching how to run internal combustion engines on kerosene.Shortly after the end of the war, Abarth returned to Italy, prompting him to reestablish old ties with the Porsche family. Stints working in Porsche's design department and Italian sports-car manufacturer cisitalia quickly followed, until march 31, 1949, when he founded the 'Abarth & c' company with armando scagliarini, producing aftermarket products for production cars.To supplement the cost of producing tuning kits, Abarth branched out into developing performance exhaust systems. Using his extensive experience with motorcycle exhausts, Abarth developed a new range of car exhaust systems.Soon, Abarth had developed an array of exhausts tuned to specific vehicles and launched an eye-catching campaign to sell them. The exhausts were presented in a matte black finish with chrome-plated tips. Despite their high price (starting at 5,950 lire as opposed to 2,000 lire for a standard silencer), motorists chose to fit them in the thousands, and Abarth's company grew from the strength of these sales.By the end of 1950, Abarth employed more than 40 people and had sold more than 4,500 exhaust systems. by 1962, global sales would reach nearly 260,000 units. At the same time, Abarth had once again forged ahead in racing – this time on four wheels. The iconic Fiat Abarth 750 helped Abarth win its place in the record books by smashing time and distance records.The combined success of the exhaust systems and motorsport achievements attracted attention from major manufacturers, and in 1958, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jr., son of the American president, travelled to Italy to sign an agreement to distribute Abarth products and vehicles in America.Abarth and the original Fiat 500 when Fiat released the new 500 in 1958, it would prove to be a landmark year for Abarth. Measuring just 10 feet (3 m) long and weighing a mere 1,100 pounds (499 kg), the Fiat 500 was one of the very first, true city cars and was the perfect answer to post-war market demand for inexpensive and practical motoring.Karl Abarth saw other uses for the Fiat 500, however. Initially releasing the vehicle under the designation 595 (later switching to 695), Abarth took a standard Fiat 500 and gave it the full Abarth treatment. This included raising the compression ratios on the small 479 cc engine, fitting a Weber 26 IMB carburetor, optimizing the fuel and intake systems and adding a full Abarth sports exhaust system.The combined result dramatically improved the handling and doubled the horsepower from 13 to 26. The car's exterior remained largely unchanged, apart from having wider wheels and tires, some discrete Abarth branding and a machined Abarth plaque between the trunk lid and bumper for extra cooling for the rear-mounted engine.Breaking six international records in its first year of production, the Abarth 595 went on to claim nearly 900 individual race victories by 1965. In fact, the 1960s as a whole proved to be a golden age for Abarth. The famous scorpion badge (used because Abarth's astrological sign is scorpio) quickly became a symbol of power and performance – so much so that Abarth entered everyday language in its native Italy. Customers in cafés and restaurants would not ask for a strong coffee, or a coffee with a shot of alcohol, but instead ask for an "Abarth coffee."Since being re-launched in 2007, Abarth has enjoyed improved sales, which have resulted in expansion to international markets. In addition to its success in dealerships, Abarth achieved important results in motorsport as well – both in off-road and on-road disciplines, proving its worth as a true all-around contender.On track, the Abarth 500 competed in the "Trofeo Abarth 500 Italia" and the "Trofeo Abarth 500 Europa" championships in 2011, which included rounds at famous circuits such as Monza, Spa Francorchamps and Imola. In rallying, the new Abarth 500 proved its spirit in the 2011 "Trofeo Abarth 500 Selenia."In the United States, the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth had its world premiere at the 2011 Los Angeles International Auto Show, joining the 2012 Fiat 500 and 500 Cabrio.