Abarth 695 Biposto debuts as brand’s fastest road car at Geneva
Abarth introduced the 695 Biposto at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, a stripped-back, two-seat 500 with 190hp, a 997kg kerb weight and track-focused equipment.
Abarth launched the 695 Biposto at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, presenting the fastest street-legal model in its history. Stripped to just two seats and weighing 997kg, the Biposto is a track-inspired version of the Fiat 500. It is aimed at enthusiasts seeking a road car with uncompromising performance focus, offering a unique blend of racing technology and compact dimensions. The Geneva debut marked a significant moment for the Abarth brand, underlining its commitment to motorsport-inspired engineering and design.
Introduction: Abarth 695 Biposto at Geneva
Engine and Performance
The heart of the 695 Biposto is its 1.4-litre turbocharged T-Jet engine, producing 190hp and channelling power through the front wheels. This engine allows the Biposto to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of 230km/h. These figures place the Biposto among the quickest hot hatches of its era. The car’s lightweight construction, achieved by minimising sound insulation and removing the rear seats, contributes to its impressive power-to-weight ratio. At 997kg, the Biposto is not only the most powerful but also the lightest street-legal Abarth available at the time.
The performance focus is evident throughout the car. The powertrain’s responsiveness and the car’s acceleration capabilities are intended to appeal to those who value speed and precision. The T-Jet engine, already proven in other Abarth models, is pushed to its limits for this application, and the reduced kerb weight ensures that every one of its 190 horses is put to effective use.
Track-Inspired Equipment and Options
Abarth has equipped the 695 Biposto with hardware rarely seen on a road-going Fiat 500. The car sits on 18-inch OZ alloy wheels and features a full Brembo braking system for enhanced stopping power. Adjustable Extreme Shox dampers allow the driver to tailor the ride for track or road use, while the Akrapovic exhaust system reduces back pressure and enhances the car’s sound. Inside, Sabelt seats with four-point harnesses and a rear titanium roll bar by Poggipolini replace the standard fitments, further reinforcing the car’s motorsport credentials.
Buyers can further tailor the Biposto with optional kits: the 124 Speciale Kit, Carbon Kit and Pista Kit. Each offers additional racing-oriented features, allowing owners to customise the car’s look and performance to their preferences. Zender-designed bumpers, wheel arches, side skirts and spoilers give the Biposto a distinctive, aggressive stance. The fixed polycarbonate windows, complete with sliding panels, are a nod to racing tradition and help reduce weight further.
- 18-inch OZ alloy wheels for reduced unsprung mass
- Brembo braking system for improved stopping power
- Extreme Shox adjustable dampers for custom ride settings
- Akrapovic exhaust for enhanced sound and reduced weight
- Sabelt seats with four-point harnesses
- Rear titanium roll bar by Poggipolini
Purpose-Built for Performance, Not Comfort
The Biposto’s focus on performance comes at the expense of everyday usability. There is no rear seat, and the fixed polycarbonate windows eliminate any prospect of electric operation or full opening. The interior is pared back, with minimal sound deadening and a visible roll bar. These decisions underline Abarth’s intent: this is a car for track days and fast road driving, not city commutes or family trips. The lack of comfort features and the stripped-down cabin mean that practicality is sacrificed in favour of pure driving enjoyment.
Despite these compromises, the Biposto’s appeal lies in its single-minded approach. It is designed for enthusiasts who prioritise performance and exclusivity over everyday convenience. The car’s specification and limited practicality suggest it will attract collectors and dedicated drivers rather than mainstream buyers. The unique combination of lightweight engineering, high-output engine, and bespoke components set the Biposto apart from typical city cars and even most hot hatches.
Production and Pricing
At the time of its launch, Abarth had not announced how many 695 Bipostos would be built or what the final price would be. The car’s limited practicality and specialised focus mean it is likely to be produced in small numbers, appealing mainly to collectors and enthusiasts. The exclusivity of the Biposto, combined with its performance credentials, is expected to make it a sought-after model among fans of the brand.
Conclusion: A Niche Performance Icon
The Abarth 695 Biposto stands out as a bold statement from Abarth at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. With its stripped-back design, racing-inspired technology, and focus on lightweight performance, it represents a unique offering in the world of compact sports cars. While it may not suit every driver’s needs, it offers an uncompromising option for those who want a road car with the spirit of a track machine. For those interested in the other highlights from the 2014 Geneva event, further details on key premieres and concepts can be found in dedicated coverage of the show.
