Photos by Robert Isaacs
There are many cars to see at the Seattle Auto Show, held at CenturyLink Field this weekend, but not many with the spunk and attitude of the Fiat 500. And Seattle agrees – you see them rolling around the city all the time.
My personal fave may be the 500 Abarth, but that’s because I’m addicted to the sweet, sweet sound of turbo spool and the muscular looks. The 1.4L engine puts out a 160 hp with the manual transmission, taking this 2,500 pound car from zero to 60 in less than seven seconds.
But not everyone goes for the more aggressive looking kit and the limited choice in colors.
Those looking for less umph and more sweet Italian simplicity look no further than the original Fiat 500. This 2 door compact hatch can easily fit 4 people and the Cabrio model will make those sunny days in Seattle a treat to behold from behind the wheel.
For a bit more legroom in the back, take a peak at the 500L. The ‘L’ may have the same engine output as the 500 Abarth, but it boasts a lot more space both for passengers and for packages in the truck.
Now, if you’re one of the many eco-friendly Seattleites and you want all the 500 looks and none of the emissions – tough. The Fiat 500e, an all electric car with an approximate 100 MPGe in the city, is only available in our southern sisters of Oregon and California.
While you have the chance, head down to the Seattle Auto Show and take a peak around the Fiat booth – especially to catch the ‘1957 Edition’ in Celeste Blu, with its throwback rim styling, before it heads off to the next auto show.