500 Abarth - 6/7k budget...good/bad idea?

[Nick_MSM]

Looking to replace my wife's Leon 184 FR in a couple of months when the lease is up. As we're in the process of looking for a new house I would like to reduce my monthly outgoings hence looking to buy something cheap-ish but still nice. She's keen on an Abarth and I think they look like pretty good fun.

Can you buy a decent example at £6-7k? I've done some research, there seems to be some high milers out there, but also some quite low mileage/tidy cars in this bracket. Are there any must have options? The leather/xenons/graphics/climate control seem like must haves. Any serious issues to look out for? From what I read they seem pretty sturdy/reliable.

Cheers.

[Nick_MSM]

Thank you very much for your comprehensive reply, very helpful. I like the added rarity of the Esseesse, but the firm ride does seem to be an issue. For what we want it for, the 135 should be absolutely fine. It's probably going to kept for c12 months, possibly longer if she/we enjoy it. I like the look of the later cars but don't really want to spend that sort of money at the moment. One thing I have noticed, hardly any cars have full Fiat/Abarth service history, is this an issue?


I live near Monza Tuning in Sussex which looks handy!

[Nick_MSM]

Thanks for that. I'll see if I can get a drive in one somewhere, the extra power etc would be nice. TBH I am used to a 911, AMG line Mercs with stiff suspension etc so I doubt we'd find it that harsh! Hopefully going to look at a new-ish 135 at a Fiat dealer locally to see if we like it & it suits our needs. If it ticks the boxes then the hunt starts.

[Nick_MSM]

Cheers all good advice Went along to the Fiat dealer today to look at some different models. Semi thinking about buying a new or nearly new car Need to do some man maths really, but it's certainly another option.

[Nick_MSM]

Thanks, seen yours - looks nice but you're miles away unfortunately and I am not really in the market until June to be honest.

Test drove a nearly new Turismo today, performance was a bit disappointing for me but my wife seemed to like it. Still thinking about options but leaning towards used at 18 months-3 years old probably. If anyone is thinking of selling give me a nudge

[Nick_MSM]

We've decided to go for a 2014 or 15 Turismo if anyone's looking to move one on in the next month. Quite fancy a 695 for myself but not enough room on the drive..

[Nick_MSM]

Went full circle in the end...found a nice low mileage/full Abarth history Esseesse with some nice options on it. Really pleased with it so far, even the wife likes it which is a bonus