Abarth 695 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Abarth 695

The genesis of the Abarth 695 traces back to the transformation of the Fiat Nuova 500 by Carlo Abarth's tuning house in the 1960s. Conceived as a sprightly upgrade for racing and spirited driving, the Abarth 695 emerged in 1964, quickly making a name for itself on European circuits and rallies. Its development was marked by a philosophy of maximising performance from minimal displacement, turning the 695 into a showcase for what could be achieved with smart engineering and bold modifications. The production ran until 1971 for the classic models, with Abarth’s racing credentials immortalised through notable victories and record runs. The Abarth name survived the Fiat takeover in 1971, continuing its tradition of performance-focused vehicles.

Model History

The Abarth 695 was introduced as an evolution of the Abarth 595, itself based on the Fiat 500 D chassis. The progression culminated in several variants: the base 695, the 695 SS, and racing-specific editions like the Assetto Corsa Radiale. The range was produced in very limited quantities—early 695 SS models, for instance, saw less than 1,000 units, with even fewer surviving today. After a hiatus, the Abarth 695 line was revived in the 2010s, now presented as a high-performance derivative of the modern Fiat 500, including editions like the Biposto and 695 Tributo Ferrari, marking a direct link to Abarth’s historic philosophy of compact sportiness.

Highlights of the Abarth 695

The originality of the Abarth 695 lies in its combination of ultra-lightweight design, compact rear-engine layout, and substantial engine tuning, all rooted in a daily-driver city car chassis. Classic versions offered special features: an uprated engine with up to 38 PS, specific Abarth badges and trim, widened wheel arches, a lifted engine lid for cooling, and options like a sport chassis or front disc brakes. Modern reinterpretations deliver turbocharged performance, Akrapovic exhaust systems, and rare trims with carbon detailing and upgraded brake systems. Limited-edition runs, such as the 695 Maserati Edizione, feature both exclusive colour schemes and upmarket interiors.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Aficionados of the Abarth 695 value its many special and collectible variants. Notable among these are the 695 SS Assetto Corsa Radiale, featuring magnesium wheels, wide arches, and distinct mechanical upgrades for motorsport. The 695 Edizione Maserati and 695 Tributo Ferrari represent modern collector targets, produced in strictly limited runs with unique colours, exclusive materials (such as Poltrona Frau leather and carbon fibre), and individually numbered plaques. Versions like the Biposto merge lightweight construction with minimalistic, racing-derived interiors and are frequently equipped with specialist gearboxes, such as racing dog-ring transmissions.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Abarth 695's compact dimensions and lightweight construction underpin its lively and communicative handling. Classic models delivered surprising pace for their size and age—acceleration from 60 to 80 km/h in just over 5 seconds and top speeds up to 140 km/h in SS specification. Four-speed gearboxes and, in some editions, limited-slip differentials enhanced traction and agility. Modern Abarth 695s, such as the Biposto, leverage turbocharged power, enabling 0–100 km/h in under 6 seconds and track-ready handling. Racing-focused suspension upgrades, large Brembo brakes in recent editions, and bespoke gear ratios highlight the motorsport DNA. The original Assetto Corsa models featured magnesium wheels and reduced weights for maximum circuit performance. - Abarth 695 SS Assetto Corsa Radiale: Magnesium wheels, uprated engine, flared arches

• Abarth 695 Edizione Maserati: Limited to 499 units, unique paint and luxury interior
• Abarth 695 Biposto (since 2014): 190 PS, racing dog-ring gearbox, 997 kg kerb weight, 0–100 km/h in 5.9 s

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Visually, the Abarth 695 distinguishes itself with distinctive Abarth badges, flared wheel arches, and (in SS models) a raised engine lid for improved cooling. Special models offer unique colour palettes—Maserati Bordeaux, grey tones, and two-tone leather interiors are common for limited editions. Interior details include Jaeger-LeCoultre instruments, Poltrona Frau leather, special carpets, and aluminium or carbon fibre inlays in modern variants. Sports seats, flat-bottomed steering wheels, and bespoke gear knobs are standard, while classic versions provided four practical seats. Later editions add specific elements—Xenon lights, additional fogs, and 17-inch wheels—emphasising both heritage and modern flair. Options on modern examples include Akrapovic exhausts, Beats audio, carbon accessories, Brembo brakes, and more.

Other relevant features

Replica and 'Evocazione' conversions are popular in the Abarth 695 scene, with enthusiasts customising Fiat 500s using period-correct Abarth upgrades: modified engines, uprated suspensions, unique exterior trim, and corresponding badges. Many early 695s served as a basis for EV powertrains or high-performance swaps. Both classic and modern 695s convey the Abarth philosophy: combining minimalist weight with enthusiastic, unfiltered driving character plus a signature exhaust sound—for many, a defining joy of Abarth ownership.

Summary

The Abarth 695 embodies small-car performance engineering, evolving from 1960s circuit weaponry to today’s exclusive limited editions. With its roots in Fiat’s city-car tradition, the 695 delivers focused handling, punchy engines, lightweight build, and options ranging from purist racing tools to luxury special editions. Its strong supply on the classic market ensures finding the right 695 is realistic, while collector models in particular command attention for their exclusivity and motorsport lineage.