The Herald - The Herald Magazine
DRIVE: ABARTH LIMITED EDITION
ABARTH UK has unveiled its limited edition 695 Rivale – the result of a collaboration with luxury yacht builder Riva – and a two-seater roadster, the 124 spider. Riva's successes in the twenties and thirties and Abarth's in the fifties and sixties were the foundations upon which these Italian models were built. The limited edition Abarth 695 Rivale, making its debut appearance in the UK, is where these two legends of style, performance and craftmanship come together to create what's billed as “the most sophisticated and refined Abarth ever built”. Exclusive styling features and premium materials pay tribute to the elegance and character of the new open '56 Rivale' luxury yacht, with a trademark Riva two-tone Sera Blue and Shark Grey colour scheme with Aquamarine double-stripe beauty line representing a thin line of sea on the horizon.
There is a blue leather interior and optional mahogany finish to the dashboard, steering wheel and gear lever, satin chrome finish to the door handles and tailgate, and optional handwritten name plate fitted with the same screws used on a Riva yacht.
The Akrapovi exhaust system with carbon tailpipes, Brembo brakes with black callipers and grey 17-inch Supersport wheels underline the stunning performance and driving characteristics which Abarth brings to this party. The 180hp MultiAir engine promises a top speed of 139mph and acceleration from 0-62mph in just 6.7 seconds, with a power to weight ratio matching that of a supercar.
Inside, the exclusive instrument panel and Uconnect seven-inch HD touch screen infotainment system brings the latest in onboard technology – Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ready – with navigation and touch or voice controlled operation.
Taking up its position next to the 695 Rivale is the Abarth 124 spider – marking the return of the famous and revered ‘spider' badge – the natural heir to the original launched in 1972.
This two-seater roadster embodies everything for which the Abarth marque is famed – performance, styling and advanced equipment – with each wearing its own metal plaque etched with a unique number to underline its exclusivity.
Sporting a powerful 1.4-litre 170hp engine, the 124 spider is a real driver's car, with the snug, low seating position designed to make you feel at one with the road and at one with the car. Thrilling performance is ensured with a top speed of 142mph, with optimum weight distribution and racing suspension bringing precise and agile handling.
To feed the senses further the Record Monza exhaust as standard delivers the allimportant signature Abarth sound.
Both cars are available now from Abarth's network of UK dealers, with prices yet to be confirmed.