2012 Fiat Abarth 695 Tributo

35 Bids Winner - KW500
4:34 AM, 28 Jul 2025Vehicle sold
Sold for

£25,745

(inc. Buyer’s Premium)
Winner - KW500

Background

Carlo Abarth and Enzo Ferrari had quite a lot in common, it seems. Both had been competitive racers in their youths, and both would go on to become respected preparers of racing cars once their competitive fires waned. It is tempting to declare that they were both proud and fiery Italians, too, except that Carlo Abarth was born Karl Abert Abarth in Vienna, Austria. The two men knew each other and reportedly enjoyed a good working relationship. In true Enzo Ferrari curmudgeonly style, however, the Italian would remind everyone of Abarth’s heritage by describing him as “a diligent and capable German.” That is despite Abarth having moved permanently to Italy in 1934, becoming a naturalised Italian citizen in 1949 and changing his Christian name to “Carlo” at that point. Oh, and being born in Austria not Germany! An interesting insight in Mr Ferrari’s temperament perhaps.

The Fiat Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari of 2010 wasn’t the first official collaboration betwixt and between prancing horse and angry looking scorpion. That title was reserved for the Ferrari-Abarth 166 MM racing car of 1953. The later collaboration would certainly prove easier to thread nippily through rush hour traffic in London or Milan, however. It is easily forgotten, perhaps, that the 695 Tributo Ferrari wasn’t the first Ferrari flavoured 500 iteration. There was a 2008 “Ferrari Edition” 500 primarily designed as a courtesy car for use by Ferrari dealers. The 695 Tributo Ferrari, however, was a much more serious proposition with Ferrari engineers involved in tuning the suspension, exhaust, and even driving dynamics, making this far more than just a cosmetic tribute with a few blingy badges judiciously applied.

As well as a 1.4L T‑Jet turbocharged engine producing a heady 180bhp, there was a special electrohydraulic MTA paddle-shift gearbox in tribute to Ferrari’s automated manuals and a small range of genuine Ferrari paint hues. Interestingly, and presumably based on anticipated popularity, the numbers produced varied by shade. Rosso Corsa topped the charts with 1,199 released globally. This compared to 299 for Modena Yellow and 99 each for Abu Dahbi Blue and Titanio Grey. Just 152 right hand drive Fiat Abarth 695 Tributo Ferraris were produced for the UK with all of these being finished in Rosso Corsa.
 

Key Facts


  • One of 152
  • FSH
  • Under 10k Miles

  • ZFA31200000659015
  • 9,992 Miles
  • 1368cc
  • manual
  • Red
  • Black
  • Right-hand drive
  • Petrol

Vehicle location
Bonhams|Cars Online HQ, United Kingdom

Background

Carlo Abarth and Enzo Ferrari had quite a lot in common, it seems. Both had been competitive racers in their youths, and both would go on to become respected preparers of racing cars once their competitive fires waned. It is tempting to declare that they were both proud and fiery Italians, too, except that Carlo Abarth was born Karl Abert Abarth in Vienna, Austria. The two men knew each other and reportedly enjoyed a good working relationship. In true Enzo Ferrari curmudgeonly style, however, the Italian would remind everyone of Abarth’s heritage by describing him as “a diligent and capable German.” That is despite Abarth having moved permanently to Italy in 1934, becoming a naturalised Italian citizen in 1949 and changing his Christian name to “Carlo” at that point. Oh, and being born in Austria not Germany! An interesting insight in Mr Ferrari’s temperament perhaps.

The Fiat Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari of 2010 wasn’t the first official collaboration betwixt and between prancing horse and angry looking scorpion. That title was reserved for the Ferrari-Abarth 166 MM racing car of 1953. The later collaboration would certainly prove easier to thread nippily through rush hour traffic in London or Milan, however. It is easily forgotten, perhaps, that the 695 Tributo Ferrari wasn’t the first Ferrari flavoured 500 iteration. There was a 2008 “Ferrari Edition” 500 primarily designed as a courtesy car for use by Ferrari dealers. The 695 Tributo Ferrari, however, was a much more serious proposition with Ferrari engineers involved in tuning the suspension, exhaust, and even driving dynamics, making this far more than just a cosmetic tribute with a few blingy badges judiciously applied.

As well as a 1.4L T‑Jet turbocharged engine producing a heady 180bhp, there was a special electrohydraulic MTA paddle-shift gearbox in tribute to Ferrari’s automated manuals and a small range of genuine Ferrari paint hues. Interestingly, and presumably based on anticipated popularity, the numbers produced varied by shade. Rosso Corsa topped the charts with 1,199 released globally. This compared to 299 for Modena Yellow and 99 each for Abu Dahbi Blue and Titanio Grey. Just 152 right hand drive Fiat Abarth 695 Tributo Ferraris were produced for the UK with all of these being finished in Rosso Corsa.
 

Video

Overview

This vibrant 695 Tributo Ferrari is, indeed, a factory right hand drive model in Rosso Corsa but appears to have spent a short amount of time in another overseas territory which drives on the left. DVLA records confirm that this 695 Tributo Ferrari was manufactured in 2011, first registered in January 2012 but first registered in the UK in August 2013. This is suggestive of the car possibly having spent 18 months or so in a UK Crown Dependency, Overseas Territory or similar.

What ever the case this 695 Tributo Ferrari has covered less than 10,000 miles to date and been enjoyed and, seemingly, cherished by three former keepers. The current owner acquired the 695 in November 2023 at 9,200 miles. On the day of our shoot the special edition Jaeger speedometer was registering 9,992 miles aptly demonstrating this Fiat’s continued light use to date. Despite this sparing use the accompanying service book documents five professional services to date. In short a very low mileage example with a very diligent maintenance history and packed to the gunwales with exclusive 695 Tributo Ferrari features and kit.
 

Exterior

It is really no surprise that the Rosso Corsa versions of the 695 Tributo Ferrari were predicted to be the most popular. When someone says “Ferrari” it is very hard not to mentally picture a vivid red one. The familiar form of the Fiat 500 is further enhanced here with that genuine Ferrari hue complete with silver grey striped decals starting on the diminutive bonnet, running over the roof and terminating on the rear hatch. Notably no Fiat branding appears visible on this special edition model. The main marque badges are Abarth ones, a pair of special Abarth / Ferrari emblems are affixed behind each door and the boot lid wears a 695 Tributo Ferrari iteration. 

A chunky looking body kit further enhances the sporting credentials of this rare example. A deep chin bib is balanced by a deep lip spoiler above the rear window. Pronounced side skirts complete the set and provide a suitable context for the special edition 17-inch alloy wheels. These matt anthracite finished items are reputedly designed to ape those of the Ferrari 430 Scuderia’s Challenge. These are shod with a matching set of high quality Pirelli P-Zero Nero tyres in a grippy 205/40 configuration. These are date stamped from 2021 meaning they have covered only around 2,000 miles to date. The overall external condition of the 695 Tributo Ferrari is every bit commensurate with such a low mileage example.
 

Interior

The cabin of the 695 Tributo Ferrari features many more special edition enhancements than the exterior does, which is saying something. Probably the most obvious upgrades are the pair of ‘Abarth Corsa by Sabelt’ seats finished in leather and Alcantara, with carbon body and seat base. These feature high backs and deep bolsters as well as red embroidered Abarth script to their backrests and giant looking, scorpion centred seat adjustment knobs. These special perches are even a full 10kg lighter than the standard ones. The rear seats fold individually to boost luggage capacity, are finished in black leather with red stitching and feature the distinctive 500 “lozenge” head rests.

The seat backs are not the full extent of the carbon fibre in here, either. This also extends to the dash, centre console and door shuts. A centrally placed panel, carbon fibre of course, provides a mount to the numbered special edition plaque bearing number 0876. Other highlights in here include the special Jaeger instrument console which combines speedometer, tachometer and multifunctional digital read out. A truly chunky, three spoke leather steering wheel is fitted and features a flattened bottom. Red leather inserts are noted as is a tricolour 12-o’clock marker should you ever get fully “crossed up.” Behind this sit the change paddles for the electro-hydraulic ‘Abarth Competizione’ gearbox. This is a five speed automated manual unit with manual, automatic and sport modes. Special textured alloy pedals are fitted featuring……….a scorpion of course.

Other valuable refinements include automatic climate control, electric windows and wing mirrors, turbo pressure gauge, ESP, Hill Holder and TTC Torque Transfer Control. An aftermarket Pioneer touch screen head unit is currently fitted but the original Fiat unit is also included. The luggage compartment features the original Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari branded safety kit and exclusive fitted car cover. The condition in here, like the car’s exterior, is hard to fault.
 

Mechanical

The Abarth isn’t all show and no go either. This example features the 1.4-litre, 16 valve T-Jet four cylinder petrol engine. This is fitted with an uprated Garrett 1446 turbocharger with a fixed nozzle turbine. This unit was originally rated at 180bhp at 5,500rpm and a peak of 250 NM of torque at 3,000rpm in Sport mode. The 695 features lowered, and Ferrari tuned suspension with uprated roll bars and bushes. The brakes are uprated, too, courtesy of Brembo monobloc front callipers acting against multi-section front drilled and self-ventilated discs. A unique Record Monza dual mode exhaust system is fitted. This aims to mimic a Ferrari style howl at higher revs without the inconvenience of a “shouty” timbre at lower revs and speeds.

The small engine bay is fully filled and presents beautifully. The eye is immediately drawn to the bright red, scorpion adorned header cover with all inner panel work looking clean, straight and totally free from corrosion or visible imperfections. The underside is equally straight, leak free and in keeping with the car’s light use and diligent maintenance.
 

History

All the key boxes are ticked with the paperwork archive associated with this 695. The V5 Registration Document is present as is the current, advisory free MoT in hard copy. This is valid until December 2025.

The original book pack is present to include the service booklet and its five service stamps at 4,548, 5,997, 7,833, 8,466 and 9,279 miles. The latest of these was performed just over 600 miles ago. Two keys are present, one of which is a special Tributo example.
 

Summary

The “new” Fiat 500 has been a huge success for Fiat. To date more than 2.5 million have been built and sold across all variants. Predominantly a trendy city car the Abarth models were left to inject some Mediterranean heat and spice into the otherwise mild mannered range. The 180bhp 695 is preeminent amongst these with the limited edition Tributo Ferrari model being the one most likely to achieve long-term collector car status whilst doling out some genuine, grin inducing thrills along the way.

This example of the 695 Tributo Ferrari is notable for its incredibly low mileage, diligent maintenance record and resulting impressive condition. The originality quotient is very high, too, with just an aftermarket head unit (original included) as the only noted exception. Even the special car cover and fully branded original accoutrement are still present. Far from being a badge engineered glow up of a standard model, Tributo Ferrari is a thorough, fully reengineered performance version of an already endearing model. If you are a 500 fan, this is the one to own and enjoy. 

We are happy to offer this car for auction with an estimate in the range of £25,000 - £30,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT and we are open weekdays between 10am - 12pm or 2pm - 4pm. To make a booking, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.

 

About this auction

Seller

Trade: MSH2007


Viewings Welcome

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and is strictly by appointment. To book one in the diary, please get in contact.

11d5ccb7-ffdf-4799-8aa6-12140c6ef606/b5921983-abd9-44bb-929f-e4fbaf41e8ff.jpg?optimizer=image&width=650&format=jpg image

Thinking of selling your Fiat