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2010 Abarth 500 Celebrity Challenge Edition
Highlights
- One of only 13 Challenge-edition cars
- Road legal track-day weapon
- Extensive Challenge upgrades
- Upgraded to 165bhp and Stage 1 remap
- Just 25,000 miles
- Three registered keepers
- MOT to July 2025
The Appeal
The original Abarth 500 was honed for racing, with some road cars built almost as a side hussle. This remarkable car fits neatly into that race-driven Abarth ethos because it is one of the 13 cars specially prepared for the British School of Motoring Abarth 500 Celebrity Challenge in 2010 at Silverstone.
This car was driven by Neil Primrose, drummer with rock band Travis. Each one received an extensive makeover - these are far more than road cars with the rear seats removed. Highlights include a power hike to 165bhp (from 135bhp) and an Essesse performance kit. Work finished, they were raced around Silverstone in aid of a cancer charity.
The Celebrity Challenge Edition dials up the appeal of a car already recognised as one of the modern era’s best hot hatches. Quicker, more engaging and exceptionally rare, this is the Abarth 500 you really want.
This car has covered less than 25,000 miles from new and comes to market with a long MOT to July 2025. Alongside the lengthy list of improvements, this one also has a Stage 1 remap. Regular servicing and maintenance includes a recent clutch. In great condition with interesting provenance and a great spec, this is your Abarth 500 Top Trump.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered on 21st July 2010
- Only 3 registered keepers
- Built for the BSM challenge, one of 13 cars
- Driven by Travis drummer Neil Primrose
- Brochure, photos, articles and wristbands for the event
- 2 keys
- Recent clutch
- MOT to 19th July 2025 with no advisories and 24,301 miles on test
- Road registered on plate CK10PZF
- The private plate shown in photographs is not included
Specification:
- Bespoke MSA-compliant safety cage by Custom Cages
- Interscope sound system
- Blue&Me Bluetooth connectivity
- USB connectivity
- Air conditioning
- Abarth upgraded ECU
- Performance upgraded from 135bhp to 165bhp
- Leather steering wheel
- 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels finished in white
- Cross-drilled brake discs with performance brake pads
- Uprated suspension springs
- BMC performance air filter
- Esseesse kit
- Abarth Monza exhaust
- Abarth Corse seats by Sabelt
- Four-point safety harness
- Stage 1 remap
The Condition
- Correct grey paintwork with racing roundels
- Heavily modified car as shown in photographs and detailed above
- Very well kept with few signs of age or use across car
- Interior remains in very good order with barely any indications of age
- Modified interior with certified cage and race seats with harnesses
- No reported electrical or functional issues
- Appears to be entirely correct to the Championship specification
The Mechanics
- High specification car as detailed above
- 1,368cc 165bhp engine to Championship tune
- 5spd manual gearbox
- Essesse performance kit with upgraded ECU, suspension, air filter and exhaust
- Clutch recently replaced
- Stage 1 remap advised by seller
- Cross-drilled discs and performance brake pads
- MOT advisories to note on current test, but they appear minor
- No reported running or driving issues
- Very low mileage car with only three keepers
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
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