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Representative Example: You could borrow £10,699 over 60 months with an initial payment of £495.89 (including £199 Admin Fee) followed by 58 monthly payments of £296.89 with a final payment of £495.89 (including optional £199 Option to Purchase Fee). Total amount repayable will be £19,012,40. 26.1% APR, annual interest rate (fixed) 13.3%.

Buying a Used Abarth on Finance

 

If you're after a small car with big personality, buying a used Abarth could be a great choice. Abarth takes Fiat’s compact city cars, especially the Fiat 500, and adds a healthy dose of sporty styling and performance. With turbocharged engines, the looks, and that iconic exhaust note, Abarth models stand out from the crowd.

Is an Abarth Worth It?

Yes, an Abarth is absolutely worth considering, especially if you enjoy the thrill of driving and want something more exciting than the average small car. Abarth models, particularly the 595 and 695, take the charm of the Fiat 500 and dial it up with turbocharged engines, sharp handling, and sporty styling. 

They're quick off the line, easy to manoeuvre in cities, and offer a genuine hot hatch feel without needing to spend a fortune. While they might not suit everyone, especially if you prioritise comfort, boot space, or fuel economy, they deliver strong value in terms of smiles per mile. For many drivers, an Abarth offers the perfect blend of daily usability and weekend fun

Woman Driving Looking Backwards

Is an Abarth a Good First Car?

An Abarth can be a good first car, but it depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re a confident new driver and want something small, stylish, and sporty, the Abarth 595 is a tempting choice. 

It’s compact enough to be beginner friendly, easy to park and handle but it also offers far more power and performance than most entry level hatchbacks.

However, there are a few things to consider: insurance costs will be higher due to the turbocharged engine, and the ride can feel quite firm, especially on rough roads. Fuel economy is decent, but not exceptional. For new drivers who want something that feels a bit special and aren't put off by slightly higher running costs, an Abarth is a fun and rewarding option.

But if budget and practicality are your top concerns, a more basic Fiat 500 or a Suzuki Swift might be a better fit.

Does an Abarth Hold Its Value?

Compared to many small performance cars, Abarth models do reasonably well at holding value, especially limited editions like the Abarth 695 or Turismo trims. Their sporty reputation, unique styling, and relatively low production numbers help keep demand strong on the used market. While they do depreciate like most cars, their cult following helps preserve residual value better than a standard Fiat 500.

Is Abarth Better Than Fiat?

Abarth is Fiat’s performance-focused brand, and while they’re built on the same foundations. often literally, they offer a very different driving experience. A standard Fiat 500 is designed for comfort, fuel efficiency, and everyday practicality. In contrast, the Abarth 595 and 695 versions are engineered for fun, with stiffer suspension, turbocharged engines, sharper steering, and bold styling.

You’ll also notice extras like racing seats, larger wheels, performance brakes, and sport exhausts that crackle and pop. If you’re after a relaxed drive and low costs, Fiat is better. But if you want energy, excitement, and something that stands out, Abarth brings a much more engaging experience. So, in terms of driving enjoyment and performance, Abarth is definitely "better", especially for enthusiasts.

White Fiat At Beach

Top 5 Financed Abarth Models in the UK

Here are some of the most popular Abarth models financed in the UK, and for good reason. Each one offers something different, depending on what the driver needs or prefers.

Happy Man Getting In White Car

Financing a Abarth

If you’re thinking about buying a used Abarth, finance could be a simple way to get the car you want without paying all at once. With HP, you make monthly payments and own the car at the end of the finance agreement.

Before applying, it’s worth checking your credit score, comparing offers, and making sure the car has a full service history. Choose a monthly payment that fits your budget. 

Remember: When buying any used vehicle, there’s always a chance that issues may come up later. If you’ve financed a car and start to notice mechanical problems, it’s important to contact both your finance provider and the dealership where you bought the vehicle. Acting quickly can help get the issue resolved and protect your rights.

Disclaimers

  • We are an independent hire purchase lender. We are not linked to or approved by any car manufacturer shown on this website. The names and logos belong to the manufacturers and are used only to help identify the vehicles.
  • The information on this page highlights common points that drivers may want to think about when choosing this brand of vehicle. It is general guidance only, not official information from the manufacturer. Different models may vary, so please consider your own needs and circumstances when deciding.
  • All vehicle manufacturer names, logos and trademarks shown on this site belong to their respective owners. They are used only to help identify the vehicles that customers may choose to finance. We are independent and not approved by, or affiliated with, any vehicle manufacturer. Logos of broker firms are displayed to show our commercial relationships with them. Each broker’s name and logo remains the property of its owner
Abarth 595

Abarth 595

The Abarth 595 is the core model in the range, and it’s where most used Abarth buyers start. It’s built on the Fiat 500 platform but transformed into a proper hot hatch. All 595s come with a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine, but power varies by trim, from around 145hp in the base version up to 180hp in higher trims. You’ll find both three-door hatchback and convertible (C) body styles, giving buyers a choice between sporty practicality and wind-in-your-hair fun. Even entry-level models include sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, stylish alloy wheels, and Abarth’s signature twin exhausts. The compact size makes it great for city driving, while the performance offers a thrilling edge.

Abarth 595 Turismo

Abarth 595 Turismo

The Turismo trim is aimed at drivers who want the Abarth experience with added comfort and everyday usability. It usually produces around 165hp and adds premium touches like leather upholstery, climate control, and chrome detailing. The suspension is slightly softer than the Competizione, making it more suitable for longer journeys or commuting. It still handles well and offers the same punchy engine and sporty looks, but with an added layer of refinement. For many drivers, especially those new to hot hatches, the 595 Turismo hits a sweet spot between performance and comfort.

Abarth 595 Competizione

Abarth 595 Competizione

If you’re looking for maximum performance, the Competizione trim is the most aggressive version of the 595. It’s fitted with a louder, more characterful Record Monza exhaust, uprated Brembo brakes, stiffer Koni suspension, and supportive Sabelt sports seats. The 180hp engine makes it one of the quickest models in the range, and it sounds every bit as fast as it feels. This version is ideal for drivers who want to take their car on a track day or just want that raw, performance-focused feel on the road. It’s firmer, louder, and more focused—perfect for driving enthusiasts.

Abarth 695

Abarth 695

The 695 represents the top end of the Abarth lineup and includes various special editions like the 695 Rivale, 695 Esseesse, and 695 XSR Yamaha. These models often feature unique paint finishes, limited production numbers, carbon fibre details, and upgraded components not found in the regular 595s. Power is typically 180hp, and you’ll find race, inspired extras like lightweight wheels, mechanical limited slip differentials, or adjustable suspension depending on the version. While they’re more expensive, both new and used, they hold appeal for collectors and anyone looking for something a bit more exclusive.

Abarth 124 Spider

Abarth 124 Spider

The Abarth 124 Spider was a short-lived but much-loved rear-wheel-drive sports car based on the Mazda MX-5. It shares the same basic chassis as the MX-5 but uses Fiat’s 1.4-litre turbo engine with 170hp and Abarth-tuned suspension, brakes, and exhaust. This combination delivers a light, agile drive with a sharper edge than the standard Mazda. With its classic roadster proportions, manual gearbox, and raspy exhaust note, it’s one of the few modern convertibles that offer true driver engagement at an affordable price point. Though discontinued in 2019, it’s still highly sought after on the used market by those wanting an old school driving feel with modern reliability.

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