Vehicle model
Abarth 595C (Cabriolet)
The Abarth 595C represents the convertible variant of the iconic Italian pocket rocket, perpetuating the legacy of the legendary original Abarth 595 from the 1960s. Launched in 2013 alongside the hardtop 595 version, this open-top city car is part of the Scorpion brand's renaissance orchestrated by the Fiat group. The "C" in its designation stands for Cabriolet, a configuration that recalls the sunny origins of the Turin-based marque and offers a particularly immersive driving experience thanks to its retractable fabric roof. This "skydome" type roof allows complete opening while retaining the structural pillars, thus preserving chassis rigidity. Based on the modernized Fiat 500C platform, the Abarth 595C distinguishes itself through substantial modifications that transform the friendly city car into a true pocket sports car. From its launch, it displays distinctive aesthetic elements: specific front and rear bumpers with enlarged air intakes, pronounced side skirts, rear diffuser integrating characteristic Record Monza exhaust outlets with an unmistakable sound. Wheel arch extensions, colored brake calipers, and 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels depending on versions complete this visual transformation. The interior also receives a sporting treatment with Sabelt bucket seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with Alcantara insert, and specific instrumentation including a turbo boost pressure gauge. Under the hood, the Abarth 595C introduces the turbocharged 1.4 T-Jet four-cylinder engine initially developing 160 horsepower in its base version. This proven powerplant offers impressive performance for a city car: 0 to 100 km/h dispatched in less than 8 seconds and a top speed exceeding 200 km/h. Over the years, Abarth enriches the range with more muscular versions. The 595 Turismo offers a more balanced approach with slightly softened suspension, while the 595 Competizione develops 180 horsepower and adopts a more radical calibration. In 2015, Abarth introduces the mechanical Abarth limited-slip differential as an option, considerably improving dynamic behavior and traction when exiting corners. The range experiences several facelifts and special editions throughout its career. In 2016, an initial refresh brings aesthetic and technological improvements, including a Uconnect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The year 2019 marks an important evolution with the introduction of even more powerful versions, certain variants reaching 165 or even 180 horsepower as standard. Abarth also offers numerous limited editions celebrating the brand's history, sporting special liveries and exclusive equipment that quickly become prized by collectors. The Abarth 595C has established itself as an attractive alternative to conventional hot hatches, offering an inimitable Italian character, intoxicating mechanical soundtrack, and the unique pleasure of open-air sporty driving. Its premium positioning in the sporty city car segment, its virtually infinite customization through the Abarth Tailor Made program, and its excellent road handling make it an object of desire for enthusiasts seeking a compact sports car with strong character, equally capable of darting through city streets and delivering thrills on winding roads. The 595C embodies the Abarth philosophy of maximum fun in minimum size, wrapped in a stylish convertible package that adds an extra dimension of enjoyment to the already exhilarating driving experience.
History
History of the Abarth 595C (Cabriolet)
The Abarth 595C represents the convertible variant of the iconic Italian pocket rocket, perpetuating the legacy of the legendary original Abarth 595 from the 1960s. Launched in 2013 alongside the hardtop 595 version, this open-top city car is part of the Scorpion brand's renaissance orchestrated by the Fiat group. The "C" in its designation stands for Cabriolet, a configuration that recalls the sunny origins of the Turin-based marque and offers a particularly immersive driving experience thanks to its retractable fabric roof. This "skydome" type roof allows complete opening while retaining the structural pillars, thus preserving chassis rigidity. Based on the modernized Fiat 500C platform, the Abarth 595C distinguishes itself through substantial modifications that transform the friendly city car into a true pocket sports car. From its launch, it displays distinctive aesthetic elements: specific front and rear bumpers with enlarged air intakes, pronounced side skirts, rear diffuser integrating characteristic Record Monza exhaust outlets with an unmistakable sound. Wheel arch extensions, colored brake calipers, and 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels depending on versions complete this visual transformation. The interior also receives a sporting treatment with Sabelt bucket seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with Alcantara insert, and specific instrumentation including a turbo boost pressure gauge. Under the hood, the Abarth 595C introduces the turbocharged 1.4 T-Jet four-cylinder engine initially developing 160 horsepower in its base version. This proven powerplant offers impressive performance for a city car: 0 to 100 km/h dispatched in less than 8 seconds and a top speed exceeding 200 km/h. Over the years, Abarth enriches the range with more muscular versions. The 595 Turismo offers a more balanced approach with slightly softened suspension, while the 595 Competizione develops 180 horsepower and adopts a more radical calibration. In 2015, Abarth introduces the mechanical Abarth limited-slip differential as an option, considerably improving dynamic behavior and traction when exiting corners. The range experiences several facelifts and special editions throughout its career. In 2016, an initial refresh brings aesthetic and technological improvements, including a Uconnect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The year 2019 marks an important evolution with the introduction of even more powerful versions, certain variants reaching 165 or even 180 horsepower as standard. Abarth also offers numerous limited editions celebrating the brand's history, sporting special liveries and exclusive equipment that quickly become prized by collectors. The Abarth 595C has established itself as an attractive alternative to conventional hot hatches, offering an inimitable Italian character, intoxicating mechanical soundtrack, and the unique pleasure of open-air sporty driving. Its premium positioning in the sporty city car segment, its virtually infinite customization through the Abarth Tailor Made program, and its excellent road handling make it an object of desire for enthusiasts seeking a compact sports car with strong character, equally capable of darting through city streets and delivering thrills on winding roads. The 595C embodies the Abarth philosophy of maximum fun in minimum size, wrapped in a stylish convertible package that adds an extra dimension of enjoyment to the already exhilarating driving experience.
Technology
Technologies, engines and platforms
The Abarth 595C is built on the modernized Fiat 500C platform, with a reinforced chassis to compensate for the rigidity loss inherent to the convertible configuration. The technical heart is the turbocharged 1.4 T-Jet engine available in several power outputs (145, 160, 165, or 180 horsepower depending on versions and model years). Transmission is handled by a five-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed automated sequential transmission. Sport-tuned suspension lowered by 30 mm, reinforced brakes with 284 mm front discs and Brembo calipers on certain versions, along with the optional mechanical limited-slip differential (Abarth LSD) constitute the main technical assets. The Uconnect system with touchscreen and smartphone connectivity equips recent versions, while driver assistance features remain relatively basic in keeping with the car's purist spirit.
Tires and wheels
Tire and wheel compatibility
Tire and wheel dimensions for the Abarth 595C vary depending on year, version (base, Turismo, Competizione), and chosen options, generally ranging from 16 to 17 inches. It is essential to verify the exact recommended dimension for your specific model year and trim in the owner's manual or on the door jamb label.
Other models