Track-Ready: Preparing Your Abarth for Performance Driving

Turning your Abarth 595 or 500 into a track-ready performer requires careful planning and targeted upgrades. To maximise enjoyment and safety during track days, essential modifications and thorough maintenance are crucial. Here's a detailed guide on key track upgrades for your Abarth.

Essential Track Upgrades for Abarth Models

1. Braking System Enhancements

On track, your braking system faces extreme conditions. Investing in high-quality brake pads, discs, and dedicated Abarth brake cooling solutions significantly enhances performance.

Benefits:

• Reduced brake fade

• Improved stopping power

• Consistent brake pedal feel

2. Track-Focused Suspension

Upgrading to track-focused suspension for your Abarth dramatically improves handling precision and reduces body roll, crucial for consistent lap times and cornering stability.

Recommended upgrades:

• Adjustable coilover kits

• Uprated anti-roll bars

• Performance bushings

Benefits:

• Superior cornering and handling

• Enhanced vehicle control

• Increased high-speed stability

3. Grippy Track-Day Tyres

Using track-oriented tyres provides the grip needed for aggressive cornering, braking, and acceleration on the circuit.

Benefits:

• Enhanced grip and traction

• Improved lap consistency

• Superior durability under track conditions

4. Race Seat and Harness

Installing a proper race seat and harness in your Abarth not only improves safety but also enhances driver feedback and vehicle control.

Benefits:

• Increased safety during high-performance driving

• Better lateral support

• Enhanced connection to vehicle dynamics

Maintenance Tips for Track Preparation

Pre-Track Maintenance Checklist:

• Fluid Check: Inspect engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluids.

• Brake Inspection: Ensure pads, discs, and brake cooling ducts are in optimal condition.

• Tyre Pressure: Set appropriate track pressures to maximise performance and longevity.

Post-Track Maintenance Checklist:

• Fluid Replacement: Change brake fluid if necessary due to increased heat.

• Inspection: Thoroughly check suspension components, brakes, and tyres for wear or damage.

• Clean-up: Remove track debris and inspect undercarriage for any damage.

Track-Day Preparation Essentials

To maximise your enjoyment and safety, ensure you have:

• A proper helmet and safety gear

• Adequate hydration and nutrition supplies

• Tools and equipment for minor adjustments at the track

Final Thoughts

Preparing your Abarth for performance driving requires strategic modifications and meticulous maintenance. Whether you're focusing on suspension tuning, braking enhancements, tyre selection, or adding safety features like race seats and harnesses, these upgrades transform your Abarth into a formidable track machine.

Follow these guidelines to ensure your Abarth is fully track-ready and enjoy the exhilarating performance it was designed to deliver.

FAQs: Preparing Your Abarth 500/595 for Track Days

1. What are the essential track upgrades for an Abarth 595 or 500?
Key upgrades include high-performance brake pads and discs, track-focused suspension (like adjustable coilovers and uprated anti-roll bars), track-day tyres, and safety gear such as race seats and harnesses. These modifications improve safety, handling, and consistency under extreme conditions.

2. Why are upgraded brakes important for track use?
On the track, brake systems are subjected to repeated high-stress stops. Upgraded components reduce fade, improve pedal consistency, and shorten stopping distances. Adding Abarth brake cooling ducts can further maintain braking efficiency during long sessions.

3. Are coilovers necessary for tracking an Abarth 500?
While not essential, coilovers provide significant benefits. They allow you to fine-tune ride height and damping, improving cornering stability, reducing body roll, and optimising balance. Ideal for performance-focused setups or competitive track driving.

4. What tyres are best for track days in an Abarth?
Track-day tyres such as semi-slicks or ultra-high-performance summer tyres offer increased grip, better heat resistance, and consistent performance during aggressive driving. They significantly enhance cornering, braking, and acceleration.

5. Do I need a race seat and harness for Abarth track driving?
For serious track use, yes. A race seat with a harness offers increased safety and driver control, keeping you firmly in place during high-speed cornering and braking. It also improves driver feedback, helping you feel more connected to the car.

6. What maintenance should I perform before taking my Abarth to the track?
Pre-track prep should include:

• Checking and topping up fluids (engine oil, brake fluid, coolant)
  
  

• Inspecting brake pads and discs
  
  

• Setting tyre pressures for track conditions
  
  

• Ensuring all suspension components are in good condition
  
  

7. What post-track maintenance is recommended?
After a track day, inspect tyres for wear or damage, check brake fluid condition (replace if overheated), and review suspension and undercarriage for stress or impact damage. A thorough clean will also help spot issues early.

8. Can I daily drive an Abarth with track-focused upgrades?
Yes — with care. Many track upgrades, like coilovers or performance pads, are dual-purpose, but they may reduce comfort or increase noise. Consider adjustable suspension setups or switching tyres before and after track days to maintain daily drivability.