(May 19, 2012) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — With 180 horsepower, the Fiat Abarth 695 Maserati Edition, the new limited edition of only 499 vehicles to be sold mainly in European markets, is making its public debut this weekend at the 30th anniversary of the Mille Miglia, which Enzo Ferrari called “the most beautiful race in the world.”



Displayed at Piazza della Loggia in Brescia, in the midst of the collectors’ automotive jewels and “luxury cars” of today, the glamorous car represents the bond between Abarth and Maserati and is based on a host of shared values, including attention to detail, elegance and a passion for performance and sport.

Following the collaborative project three years ago with Ferrari and the creation of the Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari, this project reinforces the presence of Abarth in the luxury sport segment, this time flanked by a brand whose history of sporting achievements and elegant road cars is recognized worldwide. Karl Abarth and Alfieri Maserati: two legends, united by passion for mechanics and engines, who lent their names to two of the most prestigious companies to manufacture cars marked by style and unmistakable performance.

The new Abarth 695 Maserati Edition is an exclusive convertible that blends the sportiness of a high-performance car with the refined, elegant aesthetics of a convertible. In keeping with Maserati’s standards, this new limited edition is distinguished by excellent handling and outstanding sportiness, together with a great level of comfort and attention to materials and details.

The special edition features exclusive style details and technical features developed by Abarth engineers for Maserati. To start with, the 1.4 Turbo T-Jet 16v engine is boosted to 180 horsepower and teamed with the electrically operated Abarth Competizione manual gearbox with steering wheel controls, which enhances the performance of the engine with reduced gearshift times as well as offering an experience of superior comfort behind the wheel.

To improve performance, in particular for acceleration, the car is fitted with performance tires on 17-inch alloy wheels featuring a special Maserati-inspired “Neptune” design. The ride and braking system have also been strengthened to cope with the extra power: Brembo 305 mm disc brakes with grey fixed four-piston calipers and special Koni shock absorbers guarantee performance in complete safety.

The Abarth 695 Maserati Edition wouldn’t be complete without the variable back-pressure “dual mode” exhaust, designed to improve engine performance and deliver an inspiring sound above 3,000 rpm, with tailpipes that have been modified to assume the hexagonal shape that has always been a hallmark of Maserati cars.