Fiat vs Abarth – what's the difference?

Abarth, meanwhile, began as a separate company that modified Fiat cars for racing, but was later brought in-house to manage Fiat's factory motorsport efforts.

We'll compare Fiat and Abarth here, and explain the difference between these two brands. Once you've chosen your favourite, save thousands on used Fiat cars or used Abarth cars for sale at Motorpoint.

What is a Fiat?

Fiat is Italy's largest carmaker and one of the key companies in the Stellantis group. Its name is actually an acronym for Fabbrica Italiana di Automobili Torino, since its first factory was established in the city of Turin.

While it built luxury models in its early years, most of Fiat's history has been devoted to building affordable cars for the masses. Famous examples include the '50s Fiat 500, the original Panda of the '80s, or the revived 2007 Fiat 500 that remained on sale all the way until 2024.

Fiat models

• Fiat 500 – the long-awaited follow-up to the 2007 500, the new 500 originally launched as the electric-only 500e. A mild-hybrid petrol was announced in 2025 for drivers without access to EV charging
• Fiat Grande Panda – a revival of the popular Panda name, this time as a small SUV with a choice of fully electric or mild-hybrid power. It shares a platform with the Citroen C3 and Vauxhall Frontera
• Fiat 600 – another old Fiat model name revived as a small SUV. It's a little bigger than the Grande Panda, making it just large enough for family car duties. Gets a choice of electric and mild-hybrid engines

What is an Abarth?

Abarth was founded by Carlo Abarth in Italy in 1949 as a racing team and performance parts manufacturer. Through the '50s, Abarth developed a relationship with Fiat, and entered many Abarth-powered Fiat models into racing competitions. In 1971, Abarth was brought in-house to run Fiat's factory racing operations. Then, in 2007, the Abarth name was effectively relaunched as the hot hatch version of the Fiat 500.

Modern Abarth cars have something of an in-your-face reputation, with loud exhausts and aggressive styling. That might not suit enthusiasts who want to fly under the radar – but it might be right up your street if you want your car to look as fast as it actually is.

Abarth models

• Abarth 500 – this is Abarth's take on the Fiat 500. You get much more muscle under the bonnet and a raucous exhaust note – even in battery-powered models! Older petrol-powered versions are badged as 595 and 695 models
• Abarth 600 – Abarth's pumped-up version of the Fiat 600, only available as an electric car. Range-topping versions have 280hp and feel pretty quick when you floor it

What's the difference between Fiat and Abarth?

The main difference is that Fiat models are cheaper and slower, while Abarth cars are pricier but offer much better performance. That also extends to running costs, where you can expect Fiat cars to be cheaper to run and insure than Abarth models – again reflecting the latter's greater cost and performance.

Despite the fact Abarth models are based on Fiat cars, they have a very different attitude in the metal and behind the wheel. Fiat cars tend to look quite cute, with friendly rounded details, and lacking the aggressive styling so many rivals seem obsessed with. Meanwhile, Abarth cars often look even more aggressive than your average hot hatch thanks to flashy paint colours, race-car-like body kits, and blistered wheel arches filled with (relatively) massive alloy wheels.

Beyond the extra power, Abarth cars are also set up much racier than their Fiat counterparts. That means lower suspension and a stiffer ride, with better agility and body control as the payoff. You'll also spot body-hugging sports seats in Abarth models, pinning you in place as you attack a twisty back road.

Fiat vs Abarth – pros and cons

Should I buy a Fiat or an Abarth?

Your choice here will mostly be led by your preferences. Are you looking for a cute small car for day-to-day driving, or are you looking for an entertaining, sporty car?

Fiats are more affordable and more easygoing as a daily commuter car. Their suspension is softer and their seats designed more for comfort than support in high-G corners. You'll also find Fiats are cheaper across the board, which means your budget will buy a newer or lower-mileage example.

Abarths are far more exciting to drive than the Fiat models they're based on. That's partly down to the substantial boost in power, but also down to the sporty handling and exhilarating driving experience. You'll need deeper pockets to enjoy the Abarth experience, however, which might mean an older, higher-mileage example.

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