I am one of the few on this forum old enough to have followed and supported Abarth racing exploits back in their heyday. However I do not associate today's branding and cars with those days though there are many that do. It is relatively easy to market the modern 500 as a descendant of the original and attach some of the marque's racing heritage to the brand but more difficult with the GPA. The latter doubtless has to carry the baggage of the poor reputation of Fiat and their dealers in this country. In my opinion the GPA is a good, likeable car but is up against some stiff competition in its price sector.
Although the IRC is getting some exposure on Eurosport, there is no real sporting cachet attached to the GPA and, compared to the competition, it is quite pricey for what is, on paper, a relatively average technical spec.
I doubt that the new model will attract a greater proportion of buyers, it is hardly better looking or value. Plus, there are few dealers and the fact they are located at Fiat dealer premises is hardly likely to allay any worries on the part of prospective purchasers.
I myself said that I would never buy another Fiat after the problems with Fiat dealers and a brand new Barchetta. It was only the fact that one of those dealers offered me a damn good price to take the thing off my hands that persuaded my to buy the GPA. At least, thus far, it has proved to be a reliable, fun car and thankfully Autoworld have been equally good.
I have been perceived in the past as anti Abarth and anti forum. Neither of those is the case. I don't see the brand through rose-tinted glasses like so many and hate marketing bullsh!t though am resigned to its necessity in today's world.
