The gearbox of the Fiat 500 Abarth 695 70th Anniversario is central to the driving pleasure this special edition delivers. Limited to 1,949 numbered examples in 2019, this Abarth marks 70 years of the scorpion badge and transforms the compact city car into a genuine sporting toy. Driven hard through every rev, its transmission deserves particularly close attention.
At EDEN BOITES, French specialists in exchange gearboxes and reconditioning, we help you understand, monitor and repair the gearbox on your Fiat 500 Abarth 695 70th Anniversario. Here is everything you need to know before any work is carried out.
A Transmission Built for the Fiat 500 Abarth 695 70th Anniversario
Powered by the 1.4 turbocharged petrol engine producing 180 hp and 250 Nm of torque, the 70th Anniversario is available with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed automated sequential gearbox. That generous torque, delivered through a compact chassis, places demanding loads on the gears, synchromesh rings and clutch — all the more so when the car is driven in a spirited manner.
As with the entire 500 range, the powertrain is mounted transversally. This layout frees up cabin space and improves weight distribution, but it also makes access to the gearbox more awkward during repairs. The cable-operated gear linkage, lighter than a conventional rod system, remains susceptible to flex and wear over the kilometres.
The Role of the Differential
Integrated within the transmission, the differential allows the driven wheels to rotate at different speeds through corners and keeps this lively 500 well in hand. A gearbox fault can, however, affect its operation and cause further damage if the problem is left unaddressed.
What Symptoms Should You Watch Out For?
On a Fiat 500 Abarth 695 70th Anniversario driven with enthusiasm, several warning signs point to a tired gearbox:
- difficulty selecting gears or excessive play in the gear lever, often caused by a worn linkage or degraded gearbox oil;
- unusual noises (whining, rumbling) that betray worn bearings;
- gears crunching or refusing to engage, indicating advanced synchromesh wear;
- oil traces beneath the car, revealing a failed seal or gasket.
On such a rare model, improvising is never advisable: only a qualified professional can carry out a reliable diagnosis and prevent the problem from worsening. You will find our full range of references in the gearbox collection.
Repair or Exchange?
From a simple oil change to a complete unit replacement, the scope and cost of work can vary enormously. When wear is too advanced, an exchange gearbox is often the most balanced solution: your gearbox is replaced by a fully reconditioned and tested unit, ready to restore the character of your Abarth.
This approach avoids the long lead times of a new gearbox while delivering a high level of reliability. You can order the right unit for your 70th Anniversario and hand it to your mechanic for fitting, without going through costly intermediaries. Browse compatible models in our Fiat catalogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep driving with a crunching gearbox?
No, it is strongly inadvisable to continue. Crunching indicates synchromesh wear or insufficient lubrication, and every kilometre driven accelerates the deterioration. Have the car checked as soon as possible.
Is the automated sequential gearbox more fragile than the manual?
It contains more electronics and actuators, but remains reliable when properly maintained. An electronic diagnostic can pinpoint the exact cause of any gear-selection fault.
How do I find the exact reference for my gearbox?
Send us your VIN or registration number and our advisers will identify the gearbox that matches your Fiat 500 Abarth 695 70th Anniversario.
Does an exchange gearbox preserve the original sporting character?
Yes. A gearbox reconditioned to the correct tolerances regains its full operating specification and preserves the driving enjoyment that defines the Abarth.
For further reading, see our guides on the Fiat Punto gearbox and the Fiat Panda gearbox, as well as our article on the differences between manual and automatic gearboxes.
Why Choose EDEN BOITES?
EDEN BOITES brings its reconditioning expertise to your Fiat 500 Abarth 695 70th Anniversario. Our exchange gearboxes carry a warranty of up to 24 months and can be paid in up to 10 instalments to spread the cost. We deliver throughout France and the European Union, with lead times confirmed on quote, and exchange units are covered by a satisfaction-or-refund guarantee in accordance with our Terms and Conditions. Restore your Abarth to its full vigour by browsing our Fiat catalogue.
