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Tuesday, January 12, 2010

The US Fiat 500 Abarth...How much horsepower? Try 170hp!





Chrysler has just released their specifications on the 1.4L MultiAir engine that will equip the Fiat 500 Abarth. The 1.4L MultiAir Turbo will be rated at 170hp*, that's up from the standard European spec'd version with 135hp and even up from the optional Esseesse version with 160hp.

The US version 1.4-liter FIRE Turbo with Multiair*
170 horsepower (128 kW) @ 6750 rpm
170 lb.-ft. (231 Nm) of torque @ 3000 rpm


That power output, 2.04hp/cu in (124 hp/litre), puts the 1.4L MultiAir Turbo engine as having one of the highest specific power values in the world!

Previously, I speculated that the original Abarth's 135hp wouldn't be sufficient for the US market, based on its competitors (you can read more about that here). I thought a 3 cylinder SGE engine with 157hp or, better yet, the 170hp unit from the Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde would be more like it. Well it looks like the Quadrifoglio engine specs won out.

The 1.4 Turbo MultiAir going into the 500 Abarth is basically the same engine used in the MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde, except for some packaging and tuning details. The Quadrifoglio Verde does put out more torque:



Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde
170 horsepower (128kW) @5500rpm
170 lb.-ft (230Nm) of torque @ 2500 rpm in normal mode
184 lb.-ft (250Nm) of torque @ 2500 rpm in sport mode

Garrett GT 1446 fixed geometry turbo

The Quadrifoglio Verde will have a new, heavy duty 6 speed transmission called the C635, that can cope with the increase in torque. Currently the 500 Abarth has a heavy duty 5 speed C510 transmission. Could we in the US get the 6 speed from the larger Quadrifoglio Verde? That would be great, but that's a story for another day...

This is good news for us who are waiting patiently for the Abarth version, which is currently expected fourth quarter 2011/beginning 2012.

Below is a list of engine specs from the current 500 Abarth lineup available in Europe:



Standard Fiat 500 Abarth

1.4-liter FIRE with IHI RHF3-P fixed geometry Turbo
135 horsepower (99 kW) @ 6,750 rpm
152 lb.-ft (206Nm) of torque @ 3,000 rpm (132 lb.-ft / 180Nm @2500 rpm Normal mode)





Fiat 500 Abarth with Esseesse kit

1.4-liter FIRE with IHI RHF3 fixed-geometry turbo
160 horsepower (117 kW) @ 5,750 rpm
169 lb.-ft (152 lb.-ft /230Nm in Normal Boost mode) of torque @ 3,000 rpm




Fiat 500 Abarth "Assetto Corse" Race Car

1.4-liter Fire Turbo upgraded with Garrett GT 1446 fixed geometry turbo
190 horsepower (140 kW) @ 6,500 rpm
221 lb.-ft. (300Nm) of torque @ 3,000 rpm




Abarth 695 "Tributo Ferrari"

1.4-liter Fire Turbo upgraded with Garrett GT 1446 fixed geometry turbo
over 180 horsepower (132 kW) @ 5,750 rpm
170 lb.-ft. (230Nm) of torque @ 3,000 rpm




Abarth 500R3T Rally Car

1.4-liter Fire Turbo upgraded with Garrett GT 1446a fixed geometry turbo w/29mm intake restrictor
over 180 horsepower (132kW) @ 5,750 rpm
221 lb.-ft. (300Nm) of torque @ 3,000 rpm



Below is the official Chrysler press release:

New Four-cylinder Engines

Four-cylinder engine options are being expanded at Chrysler Group with the introduction of Fiat Powertrain's 1.4-liter, in-line four-cylinder Fully Integrated Robotized Engine (FIRE) featuring Multiair. In the early 1970s, the use of robotics in assembly plants was not common. The term “FIRE” came into existence when Fiat integrated the use of robotics in the production process of manufacturing plants. Although mechanized assembly is common today, the brand name FIRE has remained with Fiat’s powertrain lineup.




1.4-liter 16V FIRE Turbo

Two variations of the engine will be available, naturally aspirated and turbo. Both versions of the 1.4-liter FIRE feature four valves per cylinder and incorporate state-of-the-art technology for Fully Variable-valve Actuation (FVVA), also known as Multiair. Fiat’s Multiair technology significantly reduces emissions, while improving fuel economy and power. This sophisticated electro-hydraulic variable-valve actuation technology delivers an increase in power up to 10 percent, an improvement in low rpm torque up to 15 percent and a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions up to 10 percent when compared with similar engines without the technology. The Multiair system is based on a series of Fiat Powertrain patents related to hardware, combustion strategies and controls that allow for full control of the lift and timing of engine valves, independently on each cylinder and during each single engine stroke. Well suited for a small car application, the first North American vehicle to feature the 1.4-liter FIRE with Multiair is the Fiat 500.

Specifications:

1.4-liter I-4 FIRE with Multiair
100 horsepower (75 kW) at 6,750 rpm
95 lb.-ft. (129 N•m) of torque at 4,250 rpm


1.4-liter I-4 FIRE Turbo with Multiair
170 horsepower (128 kW) at 6,750 rpm
170 lb.-ft. (231 N•m) of torque at 3,000 rpm
Press release courtesy Chrysler Media
 
===========================
 
*Update: This story is from January 2010, nearly two years before the 500 Abarth's November 2011 introduction. The final production specifications for the 1.4L MultiAir Turbo are:
 
160 bhp (119 kW) @ 5,500 rpm (117 bhp/L)
150 lb.-ft. (203 N•m) @ 1,800-6,100 rpm Normal mode
170 lb.-ft. (230 N•m) @ 2,500-4,000 rpm Sport mode
Garrett GT 1446 fixed geometry turbo
Maximum Turbo Boost approx (psi / bar) 18 psi / 1.24 bar
 
This 160hp rating raises some controversy. Some say the engine may have been detuned to 160hp in an effort to not "one up" the European Abarth 500 esseesse's top horsepower figure of 160hp. There has also been some speculation that the 500 Abarth's engine is in actuality producing more power, and the 160hp figure is deliberately understated for the the same reason. This notion has been fueled by independent dynamometer test readings of the 500 Abarth once they are in owner's hands. What do you think?

 
 

49 comments:

Mr. Slipstream said...

The C635 6-speed manual would be icing on the cake. Originally didn't Abarth say they had space issues fitting the 6MT in it?

Anonymous said...

Is there a link to the original chrysler press release?

Fiat500USA.com said...

Anonymous said...
Is there a link to the original Chrysler press release?

I believe you need to register with Chrysler Media to get their Press releases. The link I use is for registered members only. Sorry.

Anonymous said...

Based on reading various sources, it appears at least to me that the release of the 'Abarth' model may not even come to US- but instead we'd get the turbo 1.4 as perhaps a 'Sport' version of the standard 500. I'm sure the fact that the Vast majority of Americans have No idea what Abarth is would have so effect on the marketing scheme they choose. Also the fact that both new multiair engines would (in theory) be ready at the same time lead me to believe we'll see them both released at launch. I can't find sources to convince me otherwise... yet.

Fiat500USA.com said...

"Anonymous said...
Based on reading various sources, it appears at least to me that the release of the 'Abarth' model may not even come to US- but instead we'd get the turbo 1.4 as perhaps a 'Sport' version of the standard 500..."

So far, Chrysler has produced documents stating the Abarth is coming to the US. The time line is approx one year after the regular 500 is introduced.

You can read about it here and also view the Chrysler document (copy and paste):

http://fiat500usa.blogspot.com/2009/11/where-fiat-500-fits-into-chryslers-5.html

I also thought that they might introduce the regular 500 with an optional turbo, but so far, Chrysler is still sticking to introducing the Abarth.

A year and a half is a lot of time so we'll have to see.

Fiat500USA.com said...

"Mr. Slipstream said...
The C635 6-speed manual would be icing on the cake. Originally didn't Abarth say they had space issues fitting the 6MT in it?"

That might be correct, I also recall the torque capacity of the C514 6 speed offered in the regular 500 wasn't sufficient for the Abarth.

A M32 six speed is fitted to the Assetto Corse, it is a physically shorter trans compared to the C514 6 speed, so it's hard to say if the Abarth could fit the new C635.

I'll send an inquiry to FPT to see if I can get anymore info.

The C635 would definitely add a lot to the cost of the 500 Abarth, which I am already concerned about. Personally, I would love to have a conventional 6 speed with the Abarth.

In any case, I can't wait for the Abarth, I hope Chrysler can bump up the time frame to summer 2011!

Don Minguez said...

I second the motion for stepping up the time frame. With the car already on sale in europe (aside from the new engine) you would think they could get it here around a year from now.

Fiat500USA.com said...

Don Minguez said...
"I second the motion for stepping up the time frame. With the car already on sale in europe (aside from the new engine) you would think they could get it here around a year from now."

We'll see what happens as we get closer to the announce date. Marketing and logistics all come into play here. The soonest I've heard is fourth quarter 2011, but it's all preliminary. The waiting is killing me;)

Anonymous said...

Chris- Wow! What a great blog you have going here. I've been fishing for info on the Abarth and now I can just go here. What an exciting car! Seems almost perfect for the times. Keep it coming! Aaron com

Fiat500USA.com said...

Anonymous said...
"Chris- Wow! What a great blog you have going here. I've been fishing for info on the Abarth and now I can just go here. What an exciting car! Seems almost perfect for the times. Keep it coming! Aaron com"

Thanks for the kind words, Aaron! I agree, the cars are exciting. They are different and have a lot of character. The kind of car you can pull into a Ferrari dealer with and not look out of place.

Fiat has a few cars I would love to see here, the Alfa Romeo MiTo and Brera, Fiat Punto Abarth, etc. For years, my motto has been "No Boring Cars" and each one fits that perfectly.

As for my blog, keep stopping by, I'm working on bringing some more interesting info on the cars as we wait for their introduction.

Best regards, Chris

Anonymous said...

What is the probability of the 695 Tributo Ferrari making its way to the states? Is there a European retail price advertised for it?

Unknown said...

Excellent work Chris. I really hope we get an Abarth version. No one in this country really knows who FIAT is anyways, so IMO if they advertise their brand right people will have no trouble understanding who Abarth is. Besides who wouldn't like a car with a scorpion for an emblem?

Fiat500USA.com said...

Anonymous said...
What is the probability of the 695 Tributo Ferrari making its way to the states? Is there a European retail price advertised for it?...

I haven't heard the official price yet on that. Rumors are £20k plus, but if the car is sold in the US, you can't just convert the European price into $'s, it generally (usually) doesn't work like that.

At this time, you would have to contact an Abarth dealer in Europe for the price, it's not on the website yet.

Fiat500USA.com said...

Luis said...
Excellent work Chris. I really hope we get an Abarth version. No one in this country really knows who FIAT is anyways, so IMO if they advertise their brand right people will have no trouble understanding who Abarth is. Besides who wouldn't like a car with a scorpion for an emblem?

Thanks Luis,

The Abarth will come here, we just have to be patient. Dates are preliminary but latest is 4th Quarter 2011. But anything can happen. It's going to be a tough wait...

Good observation on the logo, LOL!

Anonymous said...

"Based on reading various sources, it appears at least to me that the release of the 'Abarth' model may not even come to US- but instead we'd get the turbo 1.4 as perhaps a 'Sport' version of the standard 500."

Americans had no idea who John Cooper was, but they still bought Cooper S and JC Works models.

Mark Spencer Reynolds said...

170hp for the 500 Abarth is great news! Good information here.

Jonathan said...

Abarth in the US! Wow - that is going to absolutely rock! Please keep up this blog!

Anonymous said...

From researching various sources the Abarth version will be rated at 140 horsepower. The Abarth SS version will have the 170 horsepower motor. The base car (non turbo)1.4L has also been given a small shot of horsepower increase. Going from 100 to 105 horsepower.

peterjerome said...

This is a superb blog. I am writing from Canada. I am hoping all the info on the Abarth is applicable to us as well. I also hope that FIAT goes after the Smart, VW Up! and Toyota IQ and brings the Topolino to North America. This is really more related to original 500. The 2 cylinder turbo Multi-Air sounds fantastic.
I wouldn't worry about North Americans not knowing the Abarth name. They didn't know Cooper either. Renault has just resurected the Gordini name. .......Peter

Andy said...

First off, great blog. It's been difficult to find information about the Abarth being released in the states. Still a long time to wait though :(

Is it even possible to walk into a Chrysler dealership and get some more information on possibly getting one sooner?

Anonymous said...

First off as many have said, great blog dude, very professional and well researched, kudos!!!

Second, what is the weight in pounds of the US "Abarth" version, the 170 hp one? Thanks!!!

Fiat500USA.com said...

Currently, specs for the US Abarth are not available. The European Abarth weighs 2282lbs or 1035kg.

Remember, Fiat NA is concentrating on the relaunch of the brand and building excitement for the new US 500 sedan, then the 500C.

I'm sure after these two models are well established, we'll here more on the US Abarth.

By the way, You can find info on weights and other things quickly by checking out my "500 FAQ" link posted on the upper right sidebar of my site.

Thanks for the comment! Chris

Anonymous said...

I have a 2009 500 sport (100hp)that I bought last year in Mexico and brought to the states and it's a great car, can't even imagine how the Abarth is going run!! Italian Job!!

Anonymous said...

This is pretty impressive 2300lbs and 170 tq. It won't make it though, it'll do okay just like the smart (more than the mini) but it won't be a big hit. Too small, too little power for performance enthusiasts in the states. I like the little abarth but it has no potential to attract a wide array of performance buyers.. it needs to go fast in a straight line as well as handle on a track. No sane american is going to buy an abarth for 3 grand less than a v6 camaro that will run circles around it on the freeway or from a stoplight. Tune this little thing to 250 hp and it'll sell like hot cakes

Anonymous said...

lol ^

Anonymous said...

Is it the SS version that will be 170-HP or the the regular Abarth because all the other websites say 170 hp for ss and for the abarth 135 hp?

carluv said...

wow...cute... but powerful...

lateralgs in Lubbock said...

Anyone that thinks there isn't a solid niche market for an Abarth-tuned 500 in the U.S. is perhaps a little out of touch, IMO. Sure, the V6 and V8 Camaros and Mustangs will always sell, and they offer good value, but they are approaching the status of Hondas and asses: Everybody has one. Give me a 170 lb-ft Brembo-braked rat runner anyday. It's in the same mental mold as my beloved and manic Evo 8, only much smaller and maybe even a little more elemental. I'll buy one in a Heartbeat, America (yes, that was aimed at you Chevy Camaro lovers...a nice enough piece, but already all too common).

Anonymous said...

Saw an Abarth 500 on display in Geneva , Switzerland. Definately a cool ride . Count me in, it will be a great addition to my carrera S

DianaBol said...

That's a great engine for this car.

Andy said...

Have there been any more updates on the US Abarth? Are we still expecting late 2012? It's already going to be hard enough trying to hold myself off from getting the standard 500, so just wanted to see if the Abarth was still on-track for late 2012?

Christos said...

First off, great site, by far the best collection of information on the Fiat 500 (particularly the Abarth) shows a great deal of time and dedication. Thanks!

I haven't been as excited about a car since... well the GT-R and its kinda out of my price range at the moment! I'm picking up an Abarth SS as soon as it's available in Western Canada... well worth the wait.

I have an unique automotive condition, automotus speciatis, wanting the best released version of a design run, If I bought the Abarth SS and the 695 Tributo Ferrari (or similar special edition) came out subsequently thereafter i'd be forced to upgrade... so any industry rumours would be appreciated ;)

Keep up the exceptional work and I look forward to checking in.

Anonymous said...

Fantastic! That should cope with the extra weight of the US safety and crap mods. It'll probably be faster than its main competitor too: the Mini Cooper S. It's nearly as much hp (with the same torque) as the Tributo Ferrari Edition! Not as much as the new 220hp one, but still.

Can't wait for this sweet little Italian car to come to the US. It will be my TRUE first car ("my" current car is actually my dad's). Since I won't be getting a new car for awhile, I can save up. The Mini is great, but the 500 has won more awards (including European Car Of The Year and Design Of The Year) and is Italian. The Mini was originally British, but is now more German. Plus Fiat has sold over 500,000 units of the 500 as of only March 2010! :0 That's saying something about how good it is....

vincenzo said...

i love it..im waiting for the abarth..please hurry!!! cant wait to drive it

Anonymous said...

Too bad Steyer Puch doesn't get on board with this one. It would be a real barn burner as compared to an Abarth!

Floyd said...

Greetings,

I have just read the June 2011 edition of "Motor Trend" and they have "new" info on the forthcoming Abarth (page 69). They say "roughly" 160 HP and 160 pounds-feet of torque, as well as a 6-speed manual vice the Euro 5-speed.

Are these "facts" correct? Or is it still supposed to launch with 170 HP? Any idea on price? Are they planning a launch version? Any info would be GREATLY appreciated!

Cheers.

Fiat500USA.com said...

Floyd said...
Greetings,

I have just read the June 2011 edition of "Motor Trend" and they have "new" info on the forthcoming Abarth (page 69). They say "roughly" 160 HP and 160 pounds-feet of torque, as well as a 6-speed manual vice the Euro 5-speed.

Are these "facts" correct? Or is it still supposed to launch with 170 HP? Any idea on price? Are they planning a launch version? Any info would be GREATLY appreciated!

Hi Floyd,

All info is strictly guarded, so it's hard to say EXACTLY what the car will have. The 170hp was the preliminary info released, we may get that or, like the esseesse version in Europe, as an optional package.

One thing I can say after talking to folks that know is this car will be hard core. A LOT of performance and it will out perform the Euro car. You will not be disappointed!

Anonymous said...

Is there any price yet for the U.S version?

Fiat500USA.com said...

Pricing and details on the US car aren't released yet. Best guess is beginning of 2012. Keep an eye on the blog for more news as we get closer.

Anonymous said...

I just test-drove the 500 Sport & loved it. Am torn between getting this awesome little car or trying to wait for the Abarth. Definitely wondering about the price point 7& accessory choices that will be available. Also, why isn't these a national ad campaign? No one knows about these awesome little cars. I heard maybe an August campaign? They need to be getting everyone excited about them now!

Anonymous said...

Add myself to those who are debating between buying a 500 THIS WEEK, as opposed to waiting for the Abarth. Are there any estimates of the price difference, based on European models? I mean, are we talking $500 or $5000?

jdubya said...

Just bought a 500 Sport. Was planning to hold out for the Abarth. Dealer said that the Abarth will be a limited production with initial offerings going to current 500 owners. (Heard that from FIAT of Austin, TX). Call your local dealer and ask...

William "Bill" said...

A decked out abarth will cost about 33-35K with all the bells and whistles. I went to abarth.uk, there is a ala-cart list on the right.I converted British pounds to dollars. Added a little for our weak dollar and because this will be a hot seller dealer greed and "waa-laa" theirs you price. Have fun...

Anonymous said...

If Fiat/Chrysler is smart, no pun intended, they will make sure they have enough supply for the demand when the US-Abarth 500 is released. If dealerships do the over MSRP game they will lose a lot of potential life-long customers. Potential buyers for a class A car aren't going to pay inflated prices for dealership created supply and demand schemes. And if I have to buy a reg 500 now to be considered for a Abarth later, then they can forget it! I'll go buy a 2012 MINI JCW that now comes standard with 208hp and with an AERO Sport Kit. I am coming from a 2006 MINI Cooper S with a reduction pully, etc and I have no problem turning my back on Fiat if they screw this Abarth 500 introduction up. The inflated pricing is what screwed up the american car companies up. Ford, Chevy and Chrysler do this all the time and that has kept me from ever buying an american muscle car. Only tards' would give into these tactics.

Anonymous said...

ADP (additional dealer profit) was around when the MINI's came to the states in 2002 - people were paying $3000 to $5000 over sticker. It was especially prevalent on the West Coast. Depending how awesome the Abarth is, I could see it happening also depending on how many units will be produced for the US market in 2012. Let's hope not as I agree that this is a horrible practice. Manufacturers should prohibit their dealers from charging ADP. It's just not right.

Darkstrike said...

I'm a bit late to this party, but I was curious...you mention the turbo-4 will have 160hp and list specs....I completely trust you, but I don't see those same specs directly listed in that Press Release...where did you get the info for the Turbo-4's specs?

:)

Fiat500USA.com said...

These are the specs for the 500 Abarth with the esseesse kit. You can see them here: http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7IhKWjDc9wg/SncCZGPFRcI/AAAAAAAAAy8/_FS8yTnkUVw/s1600-h/fiat500usa-fiat+500+abarth_500esseesse-001.jpeg

Anonymous said...

Im living in Germany from the US and have the Abarth 500 2010 model with the Gtech ECU and over 170hp. This is a car you want :) I love it and im the only person from the US with one. The clubs are great here for the Abarth. Lots of good events and the car still gets plenty of looks. Thankfully its going to go the US now!

Anonymous said...

säljs billigt i eu fins en firari på 225 hk