The early 595C keeps the recipe of the tiny over-caffeinated Abarth while adding a folding fabric hood that completely changes the atmosphere on board. With its 1.4 T-Jet and very short wheelbase, it feels more raw than a period MINI Cooper S Cabrio. The engine answers quickly, the front axle tugs hard under load and the exhaust is a big part of the charm.
Yet the cabriolet still keeps the dry, nervous character of the hatch. Manual cars make the most sense if you want to enjoy the turbo, while the robotised MTA suits leisure use more than anything else. The folding roof, rear window and side seals demand more attention than on a closed 595, especially on cars that live outside or are used rarely.
