Car review: An Italian sportster for Dhs120k - Abarth 595 Competizione

What this enhanced Fiat 500 lacks in size, it makes up for with that Record Monza exhaust

Not just any car can become the official vehicle partner of a racetrack. Imagine the disappointment instilled in enthusiasts if their favourite circuit unveiled a people carrier as its companion? "We hope you're looking forward to your championship qualifier ladies and gentlemen, but first marvel at this display from... this year's Plymouth Voyager." Doesn't have much of a ring to it, does it? Thankfully those at Dubai Autodrome had their thinking caps on when they recruited Abarth as the destination's automotive associate. Five 595 Competizione models have joined the fleet to offer joyriders exhilarating turns around the course. Are we speed fiends? Yes. Did we want a go? Yes. While a flying lap was sadly out of the question, we did get our hands on one to put it through its paces around town.

 

 

 

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A full-blown Italian sports car for AED 120k? It has to be one of the most fun (and smallest) cars on the road, the indomitable Abarth 595 Competizione. Take a look as we try it out in Dubai ?? @gajjarrahul . . #car #dubaicars #carreview #UAE #dubai #mydubai #abarth #595competizione
A post shared by Khaleej Times (@khaleejtimes) on Jul 21, 2020 at 3:39am PDT

Playing that Record
In reality, however, you'll feel like you're doing twice your velocity at any given moment as result of that Record Monza exhaust. The noise it emit from such a diminutive vehicle is Earth-shattering.  
 

What's hot, what's not?
The only 'chilly' aspect for some will be the cubic measurements, but they're unavoidable. If you're regularly stocking up for the month at the supermarket, you may wish to look elsewhere. Though if you crave endless amounts of fun and a bona fide motor sport sensation from Dhs120,000 this is the car for you. Oh, and it boasts a funky Beats Audio system too - if that's not cool, we don't know what is.

Essentials
Top speed: 225km/h
0-100km/h: 6.9secs
Power: 180hp
Price: From Dhs120k
david@khaleejtimes.com