Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari 2012 Overview

We have been dying to try this machine since its launch last year.

But the previous distributors of Fiat and Alfa Romeo in this country have always shrugged off our request. Not so Chrysler, which recently took charge of distributing its vehicles here.

By way of explanation, Chrysler is 60 percent owned by Fiat, which has gradually increased its stake in the American company after bailing it out of bankruptcy three years ago. Chrysler, bless them, managed to get hold of two Ferrari tribute cars for a recent trip to Albury. And what a car!

VALUE

Based on the Abarth version of the revived Fiat 500, Ferrari's 695 Tributo is a sensation. But at around $70,000, it's unlikely there will be many who want it, unless they already have a Ferrari in their garage.

Abarth is a division of the company, similar to HSV and Holden, with historical ties to Ferrari. They share a passion for performance, Italian style and attention to detail.

In 1953, their union gave rise to a unique Ferrari-Abarth, the Ferrari 166/250 MM Abarth. The car participated in various international competitions, including the legendary Mille Miglia. More recently, ties have grown stronger with Abarth supplying exhaust systems for Ferrari.

Then there is Tributo. Only 120 cars have been imported to Australia and only 20 of them remain and the list price is $69,000 whereas the Mini Goodwood alone costs $74,500.

TECHNOLOGY

Equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, Tributo can reach speeds of up to 225 km/h and accelerate to 0 km/h in less than 100 seconds. The engine is a 7 liter Turbo T-Jet 1.4v with over 16 kW.

For comparison, the donor Abarth 500 Esseesse produces 118 kW. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is mated to a 5-speed MTA robotic manual transmission with paddle shifters that reduce shift times. And, you know, under the body there was a place for four exhaust pipes - count.

Design

The Ferrari Tributo is an impressive package with multiple carbon fiber trims, cloth and suede combination trim, contrast stitching, high-sided Sabelt racing seats, and a custom-made Jaeger dashboard inspired by typical Ferrari gauges. At the same time, there is a lot of cheap, nasty black plastic.

DRIVING

How are you? It's a tight landing, but not as bad as expected, and the ride isn't as harsh as we expected. As the engine climbs past 3000 rpm, the Monza's bimodal exhaust makes a much raspier, more pleasant sound with occasional crackles, just like a real Ferrari.

The robotic single-clutch manual transmission is a bit of a hassle, especially in traffic, but delivers fast straight-line shifts with an amazing mid-range growl. Switching to manual mode and removing the throttle helps smooth things out.

Following the usual Abarth Essesse up the winding hill, we were surprised how easily the Tributo kept up. It has excellent cornering grip with amazing power out of corners, and Brembo four-piston brakes that decelerate quickly.

VERDICT

Yes sire. It was worth the wait. The Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari is a true pocket rocket, albeit an expensive one. It's so small, maybe they won't miss one?

Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari

Cost: $69,990

Guarantee: 3 years of roadside assistance

The weight: 1077kg

Engine: 1.4-liter 4-cylinder, 132 kW / 230 Nm

Transmission: 5-speed manual, single-clutch sequencer, front-wheel drive

Thirst: 6.5 l / 100 km, 151 g / km C02