1972 FIAT 500 ABARTH TRIBUTE Registration Number: FHH 453K ...

Estimate

£10,000 - £12,000

1972 FIAT 500 ABARTH TRIBUTE

Registration Number: FHH 453K            
Chassis Number: TBA
Recorded Mileage: 7,500 kilometres

- Fresh from recent restoration
- Many improvements from standard

The performance of FIAT engines, as modified by Carlo Abarth, has for long been held to verge on the supernatural.’ – John Bolster, Autosport Magazine.

With their FIAT 500-based 595, Abarth adopted the most cost-effective method of coaxing greater power from a small engine, a new big-bore cylinder block boosting the previously 499cc air-cooled twin to 593cc. Higher-compression pistons, re-worked inlet ports, a special camshaft and exhaust system, and a larger carburettor helped raise power from 22 to 30bhp, though the biggest gain was in mid-range torque. Abarth’s conversion halved the standard car’s acceleration times and endowed the 595 with a top speed of more than 75mph. Lowered suspension and wider wheels and tyres helped the baby FIAT utilise the increased performance. Those still not satisfied could opt for the 595SS (Sprint Speciale), with 34bhp on tap and an 80mph top speed. And if that wasn’t enough, there was a further stretch available: to 695cc in the form of the formidable 695SS. 

This super 500 was restored in Italy to the specification of the current owner, an enthusiast of Fiat 500s and other interesting classic city cars. The restoration was detailed, including a full strip of the bodywork followed by any repairs as required, and then finished in brilliant white.

The engine was replaced by a newly rebuilt and more powerful 650cc unit mated to an all-synchro gearbox. The braking system was replaced throughout, as were cables, all rubber seals, and the wiring loom. The seats were treated to a retrim and new carpets fitted. To complete the look the suspension has been lowered and placed on new Abarth alloy wheels with new tyres, the roof recovered in red vinyl, bumpersremoved and an Abarth wooden steering wheel fitted.

With attitude in spades, this charming little devil  is ready (and very eager) to tear up the streets once more!