The new 165 HP Multiair 1.4 turbo petrol engine is the result of a winning partnership between Fiat Powertrain Technology and Abarth race-derived know-how.

Since the Fiat Powertrain engine was first presented at last year’s Geneva motor show, Abarth engineers have been working hard to squeeze every last drop of power out of it and to improve its sporting performance in typical Abarth style.

The new Abarth Punto Evo

Multiair engine technology has revolutionised the world of petrol engines. Compared to a conventional petrol engine of equivalent size, a MultiAir engine develops more power (up to 10%) and more torque (up to 15%), while consuming significantly less (up to 10%) and emitting less CO2 (up to 10%), fewer particulates (up to 40%) and less NOx (up to 60%).

The genius of the Multiair engine is embodied in its electro-hydraulic valve control system. Both fuel consumption and pollutant emissions have been slashed by using the engine’s intake valves to control the air flow directly, without a butterfly valve in the intake. Using this already advanced technology as a starting point, Abarth’s development department has made a series of modifications to arrive at the innovative new 165 HP Multiair 1.4 16 V. Power output, for example, has been optimised by the intelligent application of a new, larger turbocharger from Garrett. The result is superb performance with peak torque of 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) at 2250 rpm, and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in only 7.9 seconds.

The sporty new Abarth Punto Evo also features a new performance mode selection system that modulates engine, braking and steering action to offer a choice of two different driving styles – Sport and Normal – to suit road conditions and driver preference.

The mode selector is conveniently located on the central tunnel in front of the gear lever and lets you switch between the two modes quickly and easily, simply by moving a lever. The currently selected mode is displayed on the dashboard. If you are looking for a safe, relaxing drive, all you have to do is select Normal mode, while if you feel the need to enjoy the full performance of your Abarth Punto Evo, flip the switch to Sport position and thrill to the power! Sport mode makes the car more responsive, using electrical servo systems to modify handling and deliver the ultimate sporting feel. Due attention has also been paid to safety of course, so Sport mode also engages the TTC system automatically.

As in rally cars, the driver is assisted by GSI (Gear Shift Indicator). On the Abarth Punto Evo, GSI acts like an intelligent “co-driver” and provides a signal on the instrument panel to tell you when the right moment has arrived to shift up reducing fuel consumption.

The Abarth Punto Evo’s 1.4 Multiair petrol engine also features Fiat’s innovative Start&Stop system. This switches the engine off automatically when the vehicle comes to a halt and the engine is left to idle, and restarts it again as soon as you are ready to move off. The system finds its ideal application in situations like city traffic and sequences of traffic lights. Whenever the control logic permits, Start&Stop automatically switches off the engine, saving up to 10% of fuel consumption and emissions in the urban cycle and up to 3.5% in the NEDC test cycle.

As soon as you take your foot off the brake or engage first gear, the system immediately restarts the engine to give you instant power and responsiveness. On top of this, if you accidentally stall the engine while moving off, all you have to do is press down on the clutch to re-start it automatically.

Start&Stop offers additional benefits in terms of comfort since it eliminates noise and vibrations from the passenger compartment while the car is stationary.

The system is full interactive, and tells you whether the function is engaged or not via clear indications on the instrument panel. Start&Stop can be disengaged quickly and easily by a switch on the dashboard near the steering column.

The innovative Multiair engine guarantees sports performance plus low emissions and reduced fuel consumption. Tests carried out by Abarth engineers have demonstrated that fuel consumption has been reduced despite the fact that power output has been increased. In particular, consumption is only 8.1 l/100 km in the urban cycle; only 6.0 l/100 km in the combined cycle, and 4.8 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle. The Multiair engine is also impressively clean and already conforms to Euro 5 standards thanks to emissions of only 142g/km.

The new Abarth Punto Evo

The EVOlution of active and passive safety

The Abarth philosophy combines both performance and safety. The Abarth Punto Evo is therefore equipped with a series of highly effective systems to guarantee safe handling on all surfaces.

TTC (Torque Transfer Control) is the key to the car’s active safety. TTC improves the transfer of torque from the engine to the wheels and guarantees excellent handling on bends, making fast driving safer and more fun than ever. TTC is a differential locking system that uses the mechanical differential as a reactive element in the transmission to control torque via the braking system and ESP sensors (wheel speed, steering angle, yaw, etc.).

TTC is activated automatically in Sport mode. When engaged, the system automatically adjusts the degree of diff locking applied in accordance with dynamic factors like speed.

In the area of safety, the Abarth Punto Evo sets new standards thanks to 7 airbags, including a driver knee airbag. The Punto Evo is one of very few cars in its segment with a driver knee airbag fitted as standard on all versions.

The Abarth Punto Evo also boasts a powerful and effective braking system. Disc brakes are fitted to all wheels, with ventilated discs and Brembo double piston, fixed calipers at the front. The suspension system is derived from a tried and tested Abarth configuration. Front suspension is provided by independent McPherson struts, while rear suspension is semi-independent with a torsion bar. Abarth has also fitted a larger anti-roll bar together with front springs that are 20% harder than those of a standard suspension system. The result is impeccable road holding plus a high level of passenger comfort.

The new Abarth Punto Evo

The EVOlution of race-inspired aerodynamics

Also on a style level, the changes that Abarth have made to the Punto Evo concentrate on improving the car’s performance and aerodynamics.

Compared to the Fiat version of the car, the front bumper has been extended in width to incorporate the side flaps. The black intake cowl on the front has also been made deeper to match the lateral air outlets. This corrects and controls air flow and significantly improves aerodynamic efficiency around the sides of the car, just as on the full rally version.

The rear of the Abarth features a completely redesigned bumper incorporating side air outlets. The diffuser, designed to optimise air flow, is a major feature of the bumper. The diffuser is the same as on the previous version, but has been given a new surround to enhance its looks and align its styling with the front splitter.

The exhaust features larger diameter twin tail pipes, an obvious tribute to Abarth’s glorious history. The new pipes, however have been given a different satin finish.

The reversing lights and rear fog lights have been moved to the centre of the diffuser, forming a focal point as on formula racing cars, while new side reflectors outline and accentuate the profile of the aerodynamic deflector, simulating the effect created by the LED light cowl on the rear window.

The spoiler has been completely redesigned, not only in terms of colour (it is now the same colour as the rest of the body, giving the car a longer, more dynamic look), but in terms of size too. Its longer, tapered shape has improved the car’s CX and CZ values and made the new Abarth Punto EVO more stable than its predecessor.

The logo trim has also been redesigned and combined with a new grille with a more sporty appearance. In the same way the badge is no longer round as on the previous version but has returned to the original shape, as used on the 500.

The side flaps and skirts are finished in the same colour as the body, emphasising the car’s aggressive nature and its “stuck to the road” handling. The side graphics have also been restyled to match the front bumper and given new dimensions. The result is more in proportion with the side of the car and gives the body colour areas a sleeker appearance. Another new feature is the completely redesigned 17’’ spoked wheels, with the Abarth scorpion logo in the centre.

Abarth Punto Evo interior

The car’s interior has been completely updated too. The new materials have an appearance and finish inspired by the surface of motor racing circuits, bringing all the excitement of the track into the car.

The new central control console is divided into two sections. The audio section is characterised by a black surface and a central LCD display. Underneath, a separate section houses the air conditioning controls. The top of the console houses the air vents and a storage compartment.

The purpose-designed Jaeger instrumentation features larger dials for the speedometer and rev counter, new race-inspired graphics, and a new anti-glare cowling covered in leather with open red and yellow stitching.

The visual link with the new textured seats is obvious. The seats and seat backs are upholstered in soft black leather while the seat sides are finished in high-tech fabric to give the ideal balance between comfort, breathability and wear resistance.

Abarth Punto Evo interior

Customers can still choose the optional “Abarth Corse” seats by Sabelt. These seats offer a perfect blend of racing characteristics including light weight and the ability hold the body steady against lateral and longitudinal forces.

The EVOlution of power – the “SS” kit

As was to be expected from Abarth, a high performance kit will be made available to coincide with the launch of the Abarth Punto Evo to boost engine power even further. In keeping with Abarth tradition, the tuning kit will give the new car more power than the basic model, enabling the Multiair 1.4 16v Turbo engine to develop a maximum power of 180 HP.

Following Abarth’s performance tuning philosophy, the “SS” kit also includes modifications to chassis components, including perforated, ventilated discs, high performance brake pads, lower springs, and 18” Abarth “SS” alloy wheels painted in white or titanium, and fitted with performance tyres.

The performance delivered by the Abarth Punto Evo “SS” kit is further enhanced by a special “powered by BMC” air filter.

As for the Grande Punto and the 500, the Abarth Punto Evo’s “SS” kit comes in a classic wooden performance case. To guarantee the highest standards of quality and safety, the kit can only be installed by Abarth’s official performance tuning network.

The new Abarth Punto Evo

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

ABARTH PUNTO EVO 1.4 Multiair Turbo 165 HP E5 3P Start&Stop

Engine
• 4 cylinders in line, 4 valves per cylinder, 1368 cc
• Maximum power 165 HP (120 kW) at 5500 rpm
• Peak torque 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) at 2250 rpm
• Turbocharging with a Garrett GT1446 fixed geometry turbocharger
• Electronically controlled static ignition
• Start&Stop
• Gear Shift Indicator
• New Multiair electro-hydraulic inlet valve control

Transmission
• 6-speed mechanical gearbox
• Normal/Sport performance modes

Suspension
• McPherson front suspension with enforced anti-roll bar
• Torsion bar strut half-independent rear suspension

Steering system
• Electro-hydraulic power steering

Brakes
• Brembo M4X40 front brake caliper
• 284 mm self-ventilating front discs Ø 305 mm x 28 mm
• 228 mm rear discs Ø 264 mm x 11 mm
• ABS + ESP
• TTC – TORQUE TRANSFER CONTROL

Wheels
• ET 39 7” x 17” alloy wheels with 5 petal design and internal paint finish
• 215/45 R17” tyres

Ecology
• Complies with Euro5 EEC-p5 standards

CO2 emissions
• 142 g/km

Consumption
• 6.0 l/100 km in the combined cycle
• 4.8 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle
• 8.1 l/100 km in the urban cycle

Performance
• Top speed 213 km/h

Acceleration
• 0-100 Km/h in 7.9 secs

Updated 10/5/2010 with interior photos.

The brand new Abarth 500C is the result of developments in both style and performance. This is not the first time that Abarth has undertaken the performance tuning of a convertible and the company has used all its past experience to improve both stylistic and technical factors.

The new Abarth 500C

While the eye is inevitably drawn to the new body finish, based on elegant two-tone colour schemes, the extended, dynamic-looking spoiler instantly reminds you that the Abarth 500C is first and foremost a high class sportster. In addition to enhancing the aggressive appearance of the 500C, the spoiler effectively boosts CZ loading and creates a smoother air flow.

The looks of the Abarth 500C have also benefited from the new design 17” diamond finished alloy wheels, including the sought-after diamond finished 5 petal white wheels.

Another strong point of the Abarth 500C is its exceptional interior climate and acoustic comfort. Thorough aerodynamic research has minimised turbulence with the roof open, allowing the sound of the road and engine to be enjoyed to the full. The new car therefore delivers a more complete sport driving experience and enhanced enjoyment. In an Abarth 500C, you can experience all the thrills of a real sports car. With the roof up, performance is on a par with a hard top. When the roof down, the range of sensations and emotions is dramatically extended, and includes all the pleasures of feeling the wind in your hair and the sound of the twin tail pipes.

Abarth 500C interior

The roof is electrically operated and slides along guides in the car’s sides to let you enjoy your Abarth 500C all year round. A true object of design, the Abarth 500C’s roof stands out for its elegant, electrically controlled movement and its impressively finished and carefully administered technical features, including a glass rear window and third brake light built into the spoiler. The soft top comes in a choice of two colours (black or titanium grey), to suit the classic Abarth colours as well as the 2 two-tone colour schemes created specially for the car: one overtly sporting (black and race white) and the other in two elegant shades of grey. Finally, a coloured graphic runs around the two-tone body, simultaneously dividing and uniting the two souls of the car: below, all the performance of a true sportster, above, all the elegance of a convertible.

The new Abarth 500C

Performance: Abarth tuning

The 500C is a true Abarth, as its 140 HP 1.4 Turbo T-Jet engine clearly shows. Performance is impressive: 0-100 km/h in only 8.1 seconds and a peak torque of 206 at 2000 rpm. An engine that not only delivers thrilling performance but also makes the Abarth 500C extremely pleasant to drive day in, day out.

The engine is a 4 cylinder, 16 valve, unit of 1,368 cc, fitted with an IHI RHF3-P fixed geometry turbocharger. The unit delivers exciting performance, pushing the car to a top speed of 205 km/h and accelerating it from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.1 seconds. These exceptional figures are also the result of an overboost function engaged by pressing the “Sport” button, which modifies engine control unit mapping, turbo pressure, and steering wheel loading. Yet despite its true Abarth spirit, the 500C still only consumes 6.5 l/100 km in the combined cycle.

The car’s sporting yet flexible engine is also environmentally friendly and already conforms to the strict Euro 5 standards soon to be introduced.

On top of its superb engine, the Abarth 500C boasts all the technical content of the model from which it is derived, including TTC (Torque Transfer Control) The most obvious innovation, of course, is the race-derived “ABARTH Competizione” gearbox, fitted as standard.

Abarth 500C interior

It was 1949 and Karl Abarth officially began marketing the first product, a race-derived gearbox with steering wheel control for the Fiat Topolino, capable of delivering quick gear changes in sporty driving conditions. With the same philosophy, more than 60 years later, the “ABARTH Competizione” is offered as standard on the Abarth 500C. This electro-hydraulically actuated, 6-speed gearbox is operated by steering wheel paddles and controlled by a system that maximises economy and performance when driven hard.

The innovative MTA-derived (Manual Transmission Automated) system is based on a conventional mechanical gearbox on which the traditional gear lever has been replaced with an actuator electronically controlled by the TCU (Transmission Control Unit) to optimise gear changes and mechanical efficiency. The gearbox can be used in two modes: auto for maximum comfort, and manual for maximum performance. “Sport” mode can be engaged in both gearbox modes and reduces gear shift times.

The new “ABARTH Competizione” gearbox makes driving even more fun thanks to race-derived functions like steering wheel paddle-shifting, just like on a real super-car.

Further confirmation that the 500C is a genuine Abarth comes from the fact that a specific “SS” tuning kit is currently being developed specially for it, offering an even higher level of performance.

The Abarth 500C is aimed at customers seeking everything the scorpion brand represents in terms of performance and innovation, plus the ultimate in style and versatility.

The new Abarth 500C

Safety

The Abarth 500C incorporates all the safety systems already installed on the Abarth 500.

Designed to conform to the strictest standards, the Abarth 500C is one of the safest vehicles in its class. Stable and effective braking, exhilarating acceleration from a 140 HP engine, and ultra-reliable handling mean that the Abarth 500C will get you through even the tightest scrapes without you batting an eyelid. The 500C is equipped as standard with 7 airbags (two front, two window and two side airbags plus one driver knee airbag): a record for this class of vehicle. The new version is also equipped with sophisticated technical solutions to maximise active safety and control: these include ABS with EBD (Electronic Braking Distribution), a sophisticated ESP system (Electronic Stability Program), ASR (Anti Slip Regulation) traction control, Hill Holder to facilitate starting off on slopes, and HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assistance) to help with emergency braking.

The Abarth 500C also features two advanced control systems: “TTC” (Torque Transfer Control) and “GSI” (Gear Shift Indicator). TTC improves the transfer of torque from the engine to the wheels and in particular gives excellent handling on bends, making sports driving safer and more fun than ever. GSI (Gear Shift Indicator) provides a signal on the instrument panel (a LED that flashes five times) to tell you when to change gear. In Normal mode, GSI tells you that changing up will help reduce fuel consumption. In Sport mode, the signal means that changing gear will give you better performance.

Finally, the Abarth 500C is fitted with dynamic systems and comfort-enhancing equipment to ensure that occupants enjoy luxury as well as safety on all types of journey. Take the suspension system for example. The front suspension is based on independent McPherson struts, while the rear suspension is semi-independent, with an inter-connecting torsion bar. Specially developed by Magneti Marelli, both suspension schemes have been optimised specifically for the Abarth 500C to ensure superb handling and the highest possible level of comfort.

The new Abarth 500C

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

ABARTH 500C – 140 HP 1.4 16v Turbo T-Jet

Engine
• 4 cylinders in line, 4 valves per cylinder, 1368 cc
• Maximum power 140 HP (103 kW) at 5000 rpm
• Peak torque 206 Nm at 2000 rpm in Sport mode
• IHI RHF3-P fixed geometry turbocharger

Transmission
• “Abarth Competizione” 5-speed gearbox
• MTA shift system with electrical actuation of mechanical gearbox and steering wheel paddles

Suspension
• McPherson strut independent front suspension
• Torsion bar rear suspension with special calibration and anti-roll bar

Steering system
• Dualdrive electric power steering with Sport mode
• Sport/overboost button (modifies effect of Dualdrive electric power steering and boosts engine torque from 180 Nm to 206 Nm)

Brakes
• ZPH 4.1.2 floating front caliper with 54-mm ø piston
• Self-ventilating front discs, diameter 284 x 22 mm
• CII 34 floating rear caliper with 34-mm ø piston
• 240 mm x 11 mm ø rear discs
• Electronic Stability Program
• TTC (Torque Transfer Control)

Wheels
• Standard: 6.5×16” aluminium alloy wheels with 195/45 R16” tyres
• Optional: 7×17” aluminium alloy wheels with 205/40 R17” tyres

Ecology
• Complies with Euro5 EEC-f5 standards

CO2 emissions
• 155 g/km

Performance
• Top speed 205 km/h
• Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 8.1 secs

Consumption
• 6.5 l/100 km in the combined cycle –
• 5.4 l/100 km in the extra-urban cycle –
• 8.5 l/100 km in the urban cycle

Roof
• Roof open/close switch
• Glass rear window

Updated 10/5/2010 with interior photos.

Benny Simonsen, younger brother of GT ace Allan Simonsen, has signed with Pulce Racing to drive the Vospers-Abarthisti Abarth 500 Assetto Corse in the 2010 Trofeo Abarth 500 GB championship.

Benny is making his race circuit debut after a very successful career in Scandinavian karting, winning numerous championships.

He joins the fledging Pulce Racing formed as a spin off from experienced Le Mans Series protagonists JWA Racing. Pulce Racing are one of the few teams to acquire a dealer car – in this case, provided by Vospers, the largest car dealer in the south west of England.

Testing continues on a weekly basis in the UK and will include some warm weather running in southern Spain later this month.

Abarthisti-sponsored Vospers/Pulce Racing Abarth 500 Assetto Corse

Denise Watt, Managing Director, Pulce Racing said: “Pulce Racing are really excited to be on the Trofeo Abarth grid with a driver of the calibre and speed of Benny. We are going to be championship contenders from race one.”

Race driver Benny Simonsen commented: “I can’t wait for that first race to start, and I’m really pleased to have signed with such a professional team as Pulce Racing. I’m sure we’re going to be up the front fighting for race wins and the championship.”

John Hutchinson, Brand Manager for Vospers Abarth, said: “Vospers are proud to be a part of the Trofeo Abarth 500 GB. Abarth is already very appealing to those who remember the brand’s golden age during the ’50s and ’60s, and the race series will help attract a whole new generation of enthusiasts. Indeed, Vospers are thrilled to be supported by Abarthisti, the UK’s largest online community of Abarth owners and enthusiasts.”

Pulce Racing are also working in conjunction with Abarthisti on a range of tuning, styling and performance upgrades and accessories for all Abarth models. Details of these products will be announced as they become available.

Here’s a quick run-down of what we understand will be the main developments for Abarth in the UK next year:

The Abarth 500C comes to the UK in June July 2010.  Expect it to feature Start&Stop technology as standard, plus Xenon headlights and rear parking sensors.  This will mean an uplift in prices, as these options by themselves would normally add £1,050 to the price of a standard 500C.  No word yet on exactly what the sticker price will be, though.

The Abarth 500 continues largely unchanged for 2010, having already had its options list extended a couple of months ago with Xenons, etc.  Contrary to rumours, it won’t be getting the new MultiAir engine until 2011 at the earliest, so fence-sitters might as well get their orders in now.

The new Abarth Grande Punto will arrive in July 2010.  It won’t be called Punto Evo – that will be reserved for its Fiat brother – but will instead retain the Grande Punto name.  Its design is said to widen the gap between the Fiat and Abarth versions, and we’re hoping that means no Armco barrier across the front bumper or ugly Chrysler badge.

It’ll come with a 1.4-litre turbocharged MultiAir engine developing 170bhp 165 bhp (for some reason!) as standard.  Start&Stop will be standard, too.  More exciting, though, is the option of an MTA (automated manual) transmission, possibly with steering wheel-mounted paddles (update: still no word on this).

An Assetto handling kit will be available from launch, but the esseesse kit will follow on later.  Details of the kit are still being worked on. (update: esseesse likely to be available first, although with a disappointing 15 bhp increase).

The last piece of news is that the Abarth hillclimb challenge, using the Abarth Grande Punto 500, will likely make a repeat appearance for 2010, with an anticipated eight events across the country.

(Various updates applied as news comes through).

The Trofeo Abarth 500 GB is excited to announce the highly anticipated 2010 calendar. The inaugural series will comprise 6 events in the UK and one European race weekend.

Interest in the new championship has been high since the official launch at Silverstone in October, and the announcement of the schedule will be followed soon by an attractive prize package.

2010 Trofeo Abarth 500 GB Provisional Calendar Announced

Organisers have been working hard to create a calendar that delivers the best platform for all the stakeholders. To achieve this, the Trofeo Abarth 500 GB will align itself with MotorSport Vision Racing (MSVR) and visit well known tracks including Oulton Park, Snetterton and Brands Hatch.

Many events on the calendar will have historical significance. The opening round at Oulton Park is one of the most attended events of the season and by being on the calendar we will be part of the official start to the UK Motorsport season.

The following race at Silverstone will be on the opening rounds of the FIA Formula Two Championship. Snetterton will be unique in the fact that it will be supporting the British Superbike Championship.

In July the Championship will be featuring alongside the FIA World Touring Car and Formula Two Championships on the Brands Hatch GP circuit. The Trofeo Abarth 500 GB will join the Trofeo EU for a combined grid that will offer a great spectacle.

Paolo Callea, organiser of the Trofeo Abarth 500 GB said: “Running our races with MSVR offers us events that suit the championship ethos. With this agreement we get to race at iconic British race tracks alongside well established national and international race series including World Touring Cars (WTCC), British GT and Formula Two. This calendar and the support of MSVR provides a great platform on which build the Trofeo Abarth 500 GB in its first season.”

MSVR Chief Executive, Jonathan Palmer said: “I’m very pleased that MSVR has continued its rapid expansion by adding the Trofeo Abarth 500 GB to its list of registered championships. Paolo Callea has already done a great job getting the Abarth championship off the ground, and with backing from Abarth, a strong calendar and expertise and support from MSVR I’m sure we will see strong grids and great racing in 2010.”

The provisional 2010 calendar is:

• 3&5 April Oulton Park (supporting F3/GT)
• 17/18 April Silverstone GP (supporting FIA Formula Two)
• TBC Snetterton (supporting BSB)
• 17/18 July Brands Hatch GP (supporting FIA Formula Two and WTCC)
• 24/25 July Silverstone GP (supporting Silverstone Classic, HSSC)
• 4/5 September Brands Hatch Indy (event TBC)
• TBC Spa

Keith Cronin will be entering a privately-run Grande Punto Abarth S2000 in this weekend’s IRC Rally Scotland.

Keith Cronin's Grande Punto Abarth S2000 during prep

The British Rally Champion arrived in Perthshire earlier in the week to conduct testing and reconnaissance of the stages.

Since early in the year, plans were being made to contest Rally Scotland so that the team could test their pace against the regular IRC competitors. The original intention was to contest the event in their regular Mitsubishi. However, as the Cronin Motorsport team intend to contest a number of rounds of the IRC next season, it was decided that having won the British Rally Championship, they should get a taste of S2000 action prior to next year.

It took 10 days to get an acceptable deal put together for the hire of the PROCAR run Abarth Punto. A short testing session in Italy at the end of October was curtailed due to very heavy rainfall, so the crew will welcome another test before having to press into action against the current IRC champion Kris Meeke in his Peugeot, who is the number one seed. Seeded at number two is Guy Wilks, who was British Rally Champion in 2007 & 2008. He will drive a Skoda. Both of these will be very much the pacesetters as they have been competing in S2000 cars all season. Cronin and Shinnors are seeded at number 3 in the Punto, just ahead of Adam Gould who was awarded the BF Goodrich drive in a sister car to Meekes Peugeot.

Cronin welcomes the opportunity to compete at this level but knows that it will be a steep learning curve as the pace in these cars is much faster than the regular Group N cars.

Last weekend he commented “The most important thing for me in Scotland is to get mileage in the car to get used to the different driving style and then build my speed and hopefully set some competitive times.”

See: www.keithcroninrallying.com

A unique watch with the brand of the Scorpion: the new BRM V12-T-44-Abarth is here!

Sporting spirit, stylish design, strong character and advanced technology: this same explosive cocktail has taken two great companies to the top in their respective sectors. It is only natural, therefore, for Abarth to associate its name with that of famous French watch makers BRM to produce a truly special, limited series watch, personalised with Abarth colours. That watch is the BRM V12-T-44-Abarth.

The BRM V12-T-44-Abarth watch

The BRM V12-T-44-Abarth is a creation of rare elegance, like an Abarth car in terms of sporting philosophy, personalisation and inimitable style. Made in a limited series of only 49, the BRM V12-T-44-Abarth will be sold exclusively through the www.brm-manufacture.com website at a price of 4,900 €.

Inspired by Abarth style, the BRM V12-T-44-Abarth is an automatic chronograph of 44 mm in diameter, with a black titanium case and a black crown engraved with the characteristic Abarth scorpion. The buttons are elegantly engraved with “Start / Stop” and “Back to Zero”. The black display features white numbering with the BRM and Abarth logos, also in white. The hour and minute hands are in chrome, while the second hand is in red and the sub-display hands are in yellow. The black Nomex strap features red stitching exactly like that of an Abarth fascia. The heart of the BRM V12-T-44-Abarth is an ETA Valjoux 7753 automatic Swiss movement. Every watch is numbered on the back.

The BRM brand is the creation of the competitive spirit that has driven its creator, Bernard Richards, from his earliest years. BRM has been making watches for over 25 years and produces some 2,000 examples a year at its factory at Magny en Vexin. The entire production is hand finished and subjected to continuous quality controls (in which a hundredth of a millimetre is the maximum permitted tolerance).

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

BRM V12-T-44-Abarth
Automatic chronograph
Case size 44 mm
Case material: black PVD titanium
Abarth scorpion engraved on black crown
Buttons engraved with “Start / Stop” and “Back to Zero”.
Strap clasp in brushed steel
Black display with white numbers and logos (Abarth and BRM)
Chrome hour and minute hands
Red chronograph hand
Yellow sub-display hands
Black Nomex strap with red stitching
(Extra strap in black rubber)
Strap buckle in black PVD with grey clasps
3 year warranty

“ETA Valjoux 7753″ Swiss automatic chronograph movement
Case and lugs in superfine 18/8 stainless steel
Waterproof to a depth of 100 m
Sapphire concave crystal glass (base and lens)
Black section of case: extra hard PVD titanium
Super light hands
Superfine stainless steel screws

SPECIFICATIONS FOR ETA VALJOUX 7753 AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT
Round case
Automatic
28,800 BPH
27 rubies, 46 hours reserve
Case thickness 7.90 mm
60s chronograph
12 hour 30 minute countdown
Calendar
Date button at 10.00
Chronograph start/stop button at 2:00
Chronograph reset button at 4:00

The Trofeo Abarth 500 GB race series was officially launched last week at Silverstone, with selected guests, drivers and race teams invited to inspect, admire and test the Abarth 500 Assetto Corse race cars, while learning more about the proposed 2010 series. Among the guests were comedian Patrick Kielty and supermodel Jodie Kidd.

Comedian Patrick Kielty and supermodel Jodie Kidd were at the launch

Since the Trofeo Abarth 500 Europe came to Brands Hatch earlier this year, the rumoured British version of the series has been the talk of the paddock. Following feedback from drivers, teams and sponsors, the series is now in its final stages of preparation. It launches with the stated aim of creating a package of racing that benefits all stakeholders – from competitors and sponsors, to owners and fans.

Abarth 500 Trophy at Brands Hatch

The provisional race calendar is as follows:-

Provisional 2010 Trofeo Abarth 500 GB Race Calendar

The Abarth dealer network has been encouraged to support the series, and so far five dealers – Platts (Stoke on Trent), Thames (Slough), S. G. Petch (York), Lipscomb (Aylesford) and Vospers (Plymouth) – have confirmed their involvement, with more due to come on stream shortly.

Three race teams have so far committed to the series: Coastal Racing, with Carl Bradley as team manager and driver, will run a multi-car team in 2010 where they will be looking to build upon their success in the Mini Challenge and Clio Cup. Meanwhile Rees Sport, run by former BTCC, Tuscan and MGF driver Matt Kelly, will capitalise on their experience gained in the Porsche Carrera Cup by entering their own Abarth 500 Assetto Corse next year.

Pulce Racing, backed by the engineering expertise of a Le Mans series race team, will be running the Vospers car, and their Assetto Corse will be sporting the Abarthisti logo.

Abarth 500 Assetto Corse race cars awaiting delivery

The series features identical Abarth 500 Assetto Corse race cars, based on the road-going Abarth 500. Powered by the same 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, but with extensive internal modifications and a larger Garrett turbocharger, the race cars develop 190 bhp at 6,500 rpm. With a reinforced roll cage welded to the bodyshell, as well as further modifications to the chassis and brakes, the Assetto Corse cars are built in Turin before being shipped to the UK in batches of four. The first batch has already been delivered to their owners, following shakedown tests at Fiat Group’s proving ground at Balocco.

The inaugural race will take place over the weekend of 3/5 April 2010 at Oulton Park, and Abarthisti will be following the series throughout the year.

More information about the Trofeo Abarth 500 GB can be found on the official website.

Abarth 500 Assetto Corse race cars during testing at Silverstone

Source: Abarthisti – The 2010 Trofeo Abarth 500 GB

By winning the two races held at the Vallelunga circuit, near Rome, Sicily’s Salvatore Tavano has clinched the Abarth 500-Selenia Trophy, a promotional formula featuring the Abarth 500 Assetto Corse. He won Race 1 ahead of Lombardy’s Francesco Iorio, who takes third in the Championship, and Race 2 ahead of Veneto’s Nicola Baldan, who finishes runner-up in the Trophy standings.

In this first season of the Abarth single-make series, Tavano won nine of the 12 races, while Baldan took two victories and Villa grabbed one.

Salvatore Tavano crowned Abarth 500-Selenia Trophy Champion

The first edition of the Abarth 500-Selenia Trophy went to a driver who, despite being only 29 years old (he was born in Syracuse on 13 March 1980), has a broad experience. He won in single-seaters (Federal F3 and Formula 3000, in which he finished fourth in the 2001 European series, winning at Zolder) and in Touring cars. He was a works driver for Alfa Romeo, with whom he won the 2003 Italian title in an Alfa 156 GTA, before competing in the World Touring Car Championship, in which he won at Mexico in 2006. Last year, he was entered in the GT Championship, in which he took his Ferrari F430 to victory at Valencia.

Abarth 500-Selenia Trophy, Vallelunga

In Race 1, Tavano made a good start from pole position and kept first place until the finish line, followed by Iorio. Behind them, Baldan had a poor start and was passed by Rizzoli. Ivan Capelli finished at a good fifth place.

Having posted the fastest lap time in the first race, Tavano started Race 2 from pole position again, with youngster Alex Campani beside him. At the first braking into the Cimini curve, Andrea Rizzoli and Manuel Lasagni went off track causing the safety car to be deployed. Once the race resumed, Tavano was still leading, ahead of Campani and Baldan. Those three were all close together and, in the last lap, Baldan overtook Campani. The third step of the podium was not enough for the latter to be crowned in the Under-23 category, in which Tobias Tauber scored more points than anyone else, finishing all the 12 races held to date.

Former Ferrari driver Ivan Capelli also took part in this last round, finishing fifth in Race 1 and seventh in Race 2.

Abarth 500-Selenia Trophy, Vallelunga

Race 1 classification:
1. Salvatore Tavano 11 laps in 21min09.811s – average speed 127.393kph;
2. Francesco Iorio + 1.279s;
3. Andrea Rizzoli + 6.018s;
4. Nicola Baldan + 6.766s;
5. Ivan Capelli + 8.850s;
6. Simone Di Luca + 13.471s;
7. Matteo Milani + 14.656s;
8. Manuel Lasagni + 14.893s;
9. Alex Campani + 24.648s;
10. Alessandro Frigerio + 29.465s.

Fastest lap by Salvatore Tavano, 1min54.430s – average speed 128.515kph.

Race 2 classification:
1. Salvatore Tavano 11 laps in 23min03.409s – average speed 116.932kph;
2. Nicola Baldan + 0.518s;
3. Alex Campani + 0.889s;
4. Simone Di Luca + 3.133s;
5. Matteo Milani + 9.072s;
6. Francesco Iorio + 9.587s;
7. Ivan Capelli + 17.869s;
8. Alessandro Frigerio + 19.101s;
9. Franco Cimarelli + 22.574s;
10. Severino Nardozi + 24.220s.

Fastest lap by Nicola Baldan, 1min54.487s – average speed 128.451kph.

Abarth 500-Selenia Trophy final standings:
1. Salvatore Tavano 245 points;
2 Nicola Baldan 202;
3. Francesco Iorio 114;
4. Andrea Rizzoli 96;
5. Manuel Villa 79.

Under-23 standings:
1. Tobias Tauber 208 points;
2. Alex Campani 193;
3. Simone Monforte 173;
4. Gabriele Larini 112;
5. Patrik Gobbo 100.

Abarth is continuing its tradition of building accessible competition machinery with the unveiling of its new Abarth 500 R3T rally car.

Revealed for the first time at this month’s 51st San Remo Rally, the Abarth 500 R3T will feature in a one-make rallying trophy in 2010. The European and Italian Trophies for the Abarth 500 Assetto Corse circuit racer will continue.

Abarth 500 R3T rally car

For Abarth, the new car marks a return to a discipline in which it has been present for more than 30 years. Starting in 1977 with the first edition of the Autobianchi A112 Abarth Championship, Abarth continued with the Fiat Uno, Uno Turbo, Cinquecento, Seicento, Punto Kit and Super 1600, Stilo and Panda Kit Trophies.

The Abarth 500 rally car will be homologated in group R3T, a category reserved for supercharged cars with a maximum cylinder capacity of 1600cc. This class represents good value through its cost/performance ratio and is ideal for privateers and young drivers wishing to showcase their talent at the wheel of a high-performance car.

The Abarth 500 R3T’s 1368cc engine is fitted with a Garrett GT 1446 fixed geometry turbocharger, delivering 180bhp (132kW) at 5500rpm. It is equipped with a 6-speed sequential gearbox, a self-locking blade differential, twin disc clutch and special half-shafts.

Attention has been paid to the possibility of adjusting the suspension to adapt the set-up to suit different surfaces and drivers’ styles. Four Brembo disc brakes – ventilated at the front, solid at the rear – with an adjustable split system, provide the stopping power. The car also features a hydraulic hand brake.

Abarth 500 R3T rally car

The 1080kg Abarth 500 is fitted with a specific welded-in roll-cage integrated to the body shell, FIA homologated seats with 6-point harnesses and other necessary safety devices.

“Abarth’s ability to produce high quality racing and rallying machinery has never been in question,” says Ivan Gibson, manager, Abarth brand UK. “We have already seen how good the Abarth 500 race car is, and I am looking forward to watching this new rally car perform.”

The calendar for the Abarth rally trophy will be published later this year.

Meanwhile, the Abarth UK Hill Climb programme has ended for this season with the team’s two Abarth Grande Punto esseesse cars once again posting impressive times in the hands of UK journalists.

At last weekend’s Prescott Autumn Classic Hill Climb, Cheltenham – the seventh event this year for the Abarth UK team – writer and columnist John Simister managed a time of 54.81 seconds followed by fellow journalists Tim Dickson (55.20 secs) and John Swift (55.23 secs).

The Abarth UK team in action at Prescott

The times proved that the 180bhp Abarth Grande Puntos are not only high performing road cars, but are more than capable of delivering results in competition. Neither vehicle has used any spare parts throughout the season, and both have run with 100 per cent reliability while being driven to and from all the events contested.

“These are remarkable times considering we have been using standard road cars, without modification for hill climbs,” says Howard Paterson, Abarth team manager. “The cars have been so quick and so good this year, and we have hardly had to do any work on them. They haven’t even had new brakes.”