Bburago's 1/43 Abarth 500

I reckon the Fiat 500 is one of the best "retro-looking" cars around - unlike the BWM Mini, this really captures the spirit of the old Fiat 500 of yesteryear. Within three weeks of the 500's launch, the entire year's production of 58,000 had been sold out. To date, Fiat has received more than 205,000 orders for the 500. While Italy has been the 500's main market (In October 2007, some 9000 cars have been sold in Italy, making it the 3rd bestselling car there), the 500 has gained a strong following in many countries.

The 500 Abarth is a performance model of Fiat 500. The 1.4 L engine with IHI RHF3-P turbocharger is rated at 135 PS (99 kW; 133 hp) at 5500 rpm and 180 N·m (130 lb·ft) (206 N·m (152 lb·ft) in sport mode) torque at 3000 rpm.

I was very chuffed seeing this model in Coop for CHF3.90. It is officially licensed by Fiat. A splendid little casting, it even has the wheels nicely re-created from the road-going version. Tampo-ing is very well done.

As blogged before, I use Bburago 1/43's for "stunt work" - these models taking the place of the Matchbox SuperKings that used to be readily available. But so pleased am I with this casting, it was actually within the display cabinet for short period of time. Now safely parked elsewhere within the garage.