# Abarth 500 — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Abarth 500 on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/abarth-500

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2021
- **Ideal trim**: Competizione
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–45,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £13,000

## Why this model

The Abarth 500 (or 595 as it's often badged by 2021) is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a small car with a huge personality! It's super fun to drive, sounds amazing, and really stands out from the crowd. It's not the most practical car, but for sheer driving enjoyment and character, it's a solid pick.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data for February 2026, a 2021 Abarth 500 Competizione with around 30,000-50,000 miles should be around £13,000. Prices can vary by ±15% depending on specific mileage, condition, and optional extras like the Sabelt seats or upgraded infotainment. Always be prepared to negotiate slightly.

## Which trim to buy

The Competizione trim is definitely the one to go for if you want the full Abarth experience. It comes with the punchier 180hp engine, often includes fantastic Sabelt bucket seats, Brembo brakes for serious stopping power, and the iconic Record Monza exhaust that sounds incredible. It offers the best blend of performance and features for the money, making it the ideal choice for an enthusiast.

## What to check before you buy

- Suspension components (bushes, dampers) can wear quickly due to stiff setup
- Electrical gremlins (infotainment, sensors)
- Turbo actuator issues (less common on newer models)
- Exhaust rattles (especially with aftermarket or Record Monza exhaust)
- Minor rust spots on older models, check for early signs

## Running costs

Running an Abarth 500 can be a bit more than a standard city car due to its performance nature. Fuel costs for a 40 MPG car at £1.50/litre work out to about £0.17 per mile. Road tax (VED) for cars registered after April 2017 is £190 per year. Insurance can be on the higher side, especially for younger drivers, so always get a quote before committing.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 180 hp (Competizione)
- **Mpg**: 40-45 MPG
- **Reliability Score**: Average (6/10)
- **Safety Rating**: Based on Fiat 500 (3-star Euro NCAP 2017), but Abarth has upgraded brakes and suspension.

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Abarth 595 | £19,500 | £10,500 | 145 hp 1.4 T-Jet engine; Sports suspension; 7-inch Uconnect infotainment |
| Abarth 595 Turismo | £22,000 | £12,000 | 165 hp 1.4 T-Jet engine; Leather upholstery; Automatic climate control |
| Abarth 595 Competizione | £25,000 | £13,800 | 180 hp 1.4 T-Jet engine; Brembo brakes; Record Monza exhaust |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £13,000 | 0% |
| 2027 | £11,500 | 11.5% |
| 2028 | £10,000 | 23% |
| 2029 | £8,800 | 32.3% |
| 2030 | £7,800 | 40% |

Buying a 2021 Abarth 500 (or 595) now means you're getting a car that has already taken its biggest depreciation hit. From this point, while it will continue to lose value, the percentage loss year-on-year will be less severe than if you bought it new. These cars tend to hold their value reasonably well for a hot hatch due to their niche appeal and character.

Total value lost since new: 40%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Mini Cooper S
- Ford Fiesta ST
- Suzuki Swift Sport

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.
