Following the launch of the Fiat 124 Spider, the Italian brand's performance arm has now confirmed pricing for the sportier Abarth version.

Starting at £29,565 OTR for the 1.4 T-Jet 170hp Manual, the Abarth two-seater roadster is described as the natural heir to the original rally model launched in 1972.

Equipped with a four-cylinder 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo engine, the new spider delivers 170 hp and 250 Nm of torque. With a top speed of 143 mph the car can go from 0 to 62mph in 6.8 seconds, aided and abetted by a standard fit Record Monza exhaust, generating a unique sound signature.

The Spider is available with a six-speed manual or an automatic Sequenziale Sportivo gearbox. The manual is characterised by quick and accurate shifting with a short-throw, direct lever, while the automatic gearbox can be operated via a steering wheel-mounted paddle shift. The Automatic costs from £31,605 OTR.

Each car is tested and certified by an Abarth technician who applies a metal plaque showing the sequential number of each car - a unique number for each customer.

Five body colours are available, emphasising sport and heritage, including: a special solid "Turini 1975 White” and "Costa Brava 1972 Red", metallic "Isola d'Elba 1974 Blue", "Portogallo 1974 Grey" and "San Marino 1972 Black".

The new Abarth 124 spider has a three-gauge instrument binnacle featuring a large central rev counter, a speedometer on the right and a data display on the left allowing the driver to monitor all key driving information at a glance.

Standard equipment includes climate control system, cruise control, adjustable, electrically-folding door mirrors, and an infotainment system with ergonomic, selector dial on the centre console. The system features a 7-inch colour display, DAB digital tuner, MP3 player, two USB ports, AUX input, and Bluetooth connectivity.

There is also a stereo with four speakers while, for superior sound quality, a Bose premium sound system with nine speakers, including dual headrest speakers on both seats and a subwoofer, is available as an option, as is satellite navigation.

“The 124 Spider is a new car and a new chapter in the exciting Abarth story,” says Gerry Southerington, Abarth brand manager. “It’s what many of our existing customers have been waiting for, and I am confident we will now welcome a new group of owners into the Abarth family. Great looks, stunning performance and unique equipment will set the 124 spider apart from other roadsters and I am excited about this car’s UK launch.”

The new Abarth 124 spider arrives in the UK this summer.