Models · Abarth
Abarth 500, 595 and 695 buying guide
Abarth's hot versions of the Fiat 500, launched as the Abarth 500 in 2008, renamed 595 with the 2015 facelift and sold in many trims and special editions up to 2024, all with a 1.4 T-Jet turbo. Specialists describe them as well built and durable, and the checks are well established.
The versions
- 1.4 T-Jet turbo petrol: 145hp in the 595 from 2015, 160hp in the Pista, 165hp in the Turismo and 180hp in the Competizione, the latter two with a Garrett turbo
- Five-speed manual, or optional MTA automated manual with paddles
- Competizione adds Brembo brakes and Sabelt seats
- Hatchback and 595C cabriolet; special editions include the Trofeo, Tricolore, 70th Anniversary, Esseesse, Rivale and F595
What to check on a Abarth 595
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Gearbox chatter and synchros
What to look for: Listen at a cold start for a chattering or rattling from the gearbox, and on the drive change into third and fourth at normal speed and note any crunching. On an MTA car, check downshifts are reasonably smooth.
Why it matters: Gearbox chatter on a cold start is a warning sign of gearbox or clutch failure, often linked to a bad batch of third and fourth gear synchros. The MTA automated manual doesn't downshift smoothly even when healthy, so judge it against that.
Strut top mounts, drop links and bearings
What to look for: Open the bonnet and look at the tops of the front suspension struts for rust. On the drive, listen for knocks over speed bumps and a hum from the rear that rises with speed, and note any front-end wobble above 40mph.
Why it matters: Top strut mounts can rust and wear, especially with frequent speed bumps. Anti-roll bar drop links and rear wheel bearings don't last forever, and rear shocks and their top bushes wear over time. A wobble above 40mph can be worn driveshafts or a damaged or unbalanced wheel.
Brake recall and engine niggles
What to look for: Ask an Abarth dealer to confirm against the VIN that the brake performance recall has been completed. With the engine running, look for coolant weeping at the water pump outlet pipe, and watch for an engine warning light.
Why it matters: A recall covered reduced brake performance. Coolant weeping from the water pump outlet pipe is easily remedied. A check engine light can come from a poor remap or an air leak ahead of the oxygen sensor, and engine cut-outs have sometimes been traced to poor gearbox earthing.
Also in the full guide
- Cambelt history
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Abarth 595
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Abarth.