Many will agree that hot hatches exist to please with their combination of ample power output, sharp handling and small size. But how do you find out, as a car manufacturer, whether a specific model is a hit or a miss when it comes to sheer enjoyment? Abarth has a scientific answer: you recognize faces and measure heartbeat rates.
The aftermarket firm invited Dr. Dale Esliger from Loughborough University, UK, to participate in an experiment. A number of volunteers went down the Mallory Park racetrack as passengers with a pro driver at the wheel.
The data showed that most people felt happiness during most of the ride, with occasional outbursts of fear and shock.
According to Dr. Esliger, the research in this area is still limited, but is worth pursuing further as carmakers keep trying to find ways to increase driver engagement with their cars.
As of today, the current Abarth vehicle lineup for Europe consists of modernized Fiat 500 variants. The latest entry is the 695 Tributo 131 Rally (see video), which comes equipped with a 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine capable of 182 PS (180 hp / 134 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque.