The most affordable performance car I ever had! it corners like on rails and takes off like a BMW M3!! just amazing for the price!
Have fun!

PROS:
- great fun to drive on city roads
- peppy engine
- charming character and styling
- garners attention from both males and females

CONS:
- gearbox/shifter made in a Rubbermaid factory
- gearbox/shifter as notchy as old manual tranny's from the early 90's
- cramped inside
- ergonomics leave much to be desired (i.e. far reach audio controls for taller drivers, dashboard menu buttons not easily accessible)
- choppy ride
- body twitches and crashes over bumps
- rattles apparent on a car with just over 11,000 kms
- quivery structure
- reliability questionable / non-confidence inspiring

I have always been into the "Hot Hatch" car scene that is all over Europe. Here in North America, our selection is quite limited when it comes to this department, and the cars that do get sold here really dont feel like true hot hatches should (with a couple exceptions). I am pleased to report that the Fiat 500 Abarth is a true hot hatch. No it's not the fastest thing out there, and it's true that the styling is love it or hate it, but this is one amazing car.I have owned it since the begining of June and I grow to like it more and more everyday I drive it. It's hard to put a finger on it, but the best way to describe this thing is that it has a personalilty! Really! If you are considering one of these against a Cooper S (which I have owned in the past), you will not be dissapointed. Just make sure you hit the Sport button before you start to drive, makes a night and day difference in steering feel and throttle response (and more torque to boot!).