If the big cars that rattle the UAE’s roads have suddenly induced an urge to downsize, Abarth Middle East has launched a pocket rocket in the shape of the 695 70th Anniversario that could be just up your street. With just 1949 units available, a number which reflects the year the company was founded, this new, limited-edition vehicle has been designed, so the manufacturer says, for “uncompromising performance and sportiness”. Key to this is an adjustable spoiler, which makes its debut on the Anniversario. The new model comes with a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, which may seem small, but the 180 horsepower the powertrain generates will get what is a lightweight car from 0-100 kilometres per hour in 6.9 seconds. With sporty cars of this size, tearing in and out of corners at high speeds is key to their appeal, but Abarth says maximising stability at high speeds was also a requirement during the design process. Which is just as well, as the 695 will reach 225kph with the driver’s foot to the floor. Looks-wise, the car is characterised by style cues from the past. It has been kitted out in classic green hue with grey detailing, which is a tribute to the first 500 Abarth that set six international records at Italy’s Monza circuit in 1958. Inside, the seats have been decked out in a style the manufacturer is calling ‘sabelt tricolore’, while the cabin is adorned with badges and dials deigned to reflect the brand’s racing pedigree. The new model was first presented at the 2019 Abarth Days, the largest European gathering of enthusiasts of the brand. The Anniversario is available in the UAE now, at a price of Dh139,995.
