AC Evo Car Spotlight: Abarth 695 Biposto
Abarth 695 Biposto: The Tiny Terror
The Abarth 695 Biposto is a compact powerhouse that combines lightweight design with aggressive tuning to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Dubbed the "smallest supercar," the 695 Biposto is all about maximizing performance in a tiny package.
Power/Drivetrain Overview
At its heart, the Abarth 695 Biposto features a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing 187 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through either a 5-speed manual or a race-inspired dog-ring gearbox. With its featherweight 997 kg (2,197 lbs) curb weight, the Biposto rockets from 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds, delivering surprising performance for such a small car.
Handling Characteristics
The 695 Biposto is designed for agility, with a stiffened chassis, upgraded suspension, and Brembo brakes ensuring sharp responses and exceptional stopping power. Its compact size and short wheelbase make it a joy to drive on tight, twisty circuits, though it can be a handful for less experienced drivers due to its lively handling.
Suited Track Types
The 695 Biposto excels on tracks where nimbleness and quick direction changes take precedence over outright speed.
- Brands Hatch: Perfect for showcasing the 695 Biposto’s quick reflexes and ability to dart through tight corners.
- Laguna Seca: Its compact size makes it ideal for navigating the technical sections, including the Corkscrew.
Suited tracks outside Early Access: Tsukuba Circuit, Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya (Club layout), and Lime Rock Park.
Unique Quirks
The Abarth 695 Biposto is packed with quirky details that set it apart. These include polycarbonate windows with sliding panels, no rear seats, and a titanium roll bar for weight reduction. The optional dog-ring gearbox offers a raw, race-inspired driving experience, and its aggressive styling ensures it turns heads both on and off the track.
The Competition
In the early access list, the Abarth 695 Biposto’s closest competitor is the Hyundai i30 N Hatchback. While the i30 N provides a more practical, everyday driving experience with turbocharged power, the 695 Biposto focuses entirely on raw, lightweight performance and a track-first mentality. These two cars cater to enthusiasts with differing priorities, but both deliver thrilling performance on the right circuit.
Outside of the game, the 695 Biposto competes with cars like the Mini John Cooper Works GP, Volkswagen Polo GTI, and Renault Clio RS, all of which share its focus on compact performance with a unique twist.