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Abarth 595 SS

ClassicAbarth
32 hp
Horsepower
585 kg
Weight
RWD
Drivetrain
1965
Year

Abarth 595 SS (Classic)

The Abarth 595 SS is the hotter, lightened version of the tiny Fiat 500-based Abarth coupé, transformed by Carlo Abarth into a feisty period road racer. Small, simple, and full of character, it captures the spirit of 1960s Italian tuning with a big personality packed into a very small shell.

Key Specs (BoP-dependent, typical sim values)

  • Powertrain: 595cc air-cooled inline-2, naturally aspirated, rear-mounted

  • Total Output: ~32 hp (stock 595 SS tune)

  • Redline: ~5,000–5,500 rpm

  • Transmission: 4-speed manual

  • Weight: ~585 kg

  • Dimensions: ~2,970 mm long × 1,320 mm wide × 1,320 mm tall | Wheelbase ~1,840 mm

  • Tires: Narrow period-style road tires on small steel wheels

  • Brakes: Small hydraulic drums

  • Layout: Rear-engine, rear-wheel drive

In the Simulator Feel

The Abarth 595 SS is a lightweight, momentum-driven classic that rewards smoothness, patience, and tidy steering inputs. It may not have much power, but its low mass makes it surprisingly lively, with quick direction changes and an eager rear end that can rotate if you lift or brake too hard. On the right circuit, it feels brilliantly playful — a proper old-school driver’s car where maintaining speed matters far more than chasing horsepower.

Engine & Sound: The tiny air-cooled twin has a busy, buzzing note that sounds strained in the best possible way as it works toward the top of the rev range. It’s not loud in the modern sense, but it has a wonderfully mechanical, period-correct rasp and a sense of urgency that suits the car’s character.

Handling Characteristics:

  • Cornering: Nimble and responsive, with quick turn-in and lots of attitude if you overdrive it.

  • Traction: Limited grip from the narrow tires, so smooth throttle application is key.

  • Braking: Modest stopping power; plan your braking points early and keep the car balanced.

  • Top Speed: Low by modern standards, but strong enough for tight historic circuits and short straights.

Driving Style Tip: Drive it like a classic momentum car. Keep your inputs gentle, preserve corner speed, and avoid sudden lifts mid-corner if you want the rear to stay planted. It shines on short, technical tracks where agility counts more than outright pace.

Livery & Aesthetics: The 595 SS is charming from every angle, with its compact proportions, simple round lighting, and unmistakable Abarth badges and striping. In sim, it has that perfect old Italian homologation look — small, purposeful, and just a little bit mischievous.

Whether you're learning car control or just looking for a smile-inducing drive, the Abarth 595 SS delivers a delightful dose of classic Abarth spirit in one of the most iconic small-car packages ever made.