Abarth 500C Price Guide

The Abarth 500C is the convertible version of the Abarth 500, combining the turbocharged engine and sporting suspension with an electrically retracting fabric roof. The roof folds back while the pillars remain in place, adding open-air drama to an already theatrical car.

The Car

Available from 2010, the 500C initially came exclusively with the MTA automated manual gearbox — a configuration that robbed the car of much of its appeal. A five-speed manual became available from mid-2011, transforming the ownership experience. Power outputs and trim levels mirrored the hatchback 500. The roof operates at speeds up to 60mph and the mechanism is generally reliable, though the fabric wears over time and rear visibility is reduced with the roof stowed.

Buying

Ensure the car has the manual gearbox unless you are genuinely happy with the MTA’s jerky behaviour. The roof seals deserve inspection for water ingress. Otherwise, the same buying advice applies as for the hatchback: cambelt history, clutch wear, and service regularity are the key checks. The 500C was succeeded by the 595C designation from 2012.