This time, I had the opportunity to test drive a very intriguing car.

It is an Abarth 595 customized by a Porsche owner. The owner is a Porsche friend whose car I have reviewed several times before. He has a deep passion for Porsche, yet he purchased an Abarth 595 and went on to customize it extensively.

Usually, this blog refrains from covering cars with extensive customizations because it’s hard to convey the true nature of the vehicle. However, this time, I was intrigued by how a Porsche owner customized the Abarth 595 and what kind of driving experience he achieved. So, I’d like to review it from that perspective.

Meeting the Porsche Owner Behind the Custom 595

First, let me introduce the owner of this 595. He started with a 981 Boxster Black Edition, then moved on to a 718 Boxster Spyder, and eventually settled back on a 981 Boxster Spyder—a true hardcore Porsche enthusiast recognized by himself and others.

So why did he buy an Abarth 595 and customize it? Honestly, at first, I found it a bit surprising. But after talking with him and test driving the car, the reasons became clear.

The 595 has a personality completely different from Porsche. However, its compact body and nimble driving must have captured the heart of a Porsche owner. Moreover, the ability to pursue a driving style tailored to his preferences through customization was a big attraction.

Comparison with the 595C and Main Customizations

Actually, I have experience driving a 595C before. I reviewed a limited edition 595C (EsseEsse) that my younger brother bought. Comparing that impression with this custom 595 highlights the differences.

The 595C impressed me with its interior and presentation, but I found the ride quality at high speeds somewhat lacking. Especially on the highway, it never felt completely settled, and increasing speed didn’t really improve the ride comfort.

Also, the sharpness in winding roads was less than expected. Despite its small size, it didn’t turn as nimbly as its short wheelbase might suggest. I had expected a Ferrari-like exaggerated steering response, but instead, it felt tuned more for stability, which was a bit of a letdown given its sporty looks.

Forged wheels TWS RS317 17inch×7.5J

This custom 595 completely changed that impression. The main performance-related customizations are as follows:

• KW V3 coilover suspension
  • Ride height adjustment: Front approx. -1cm, Rear approx. -3cm (vs. stock)
  • Damping adjustment: Rebound at manufacturer’s recommended setting, Compression 2 steps softer
  • Camber adjustment: -2 degrees (front only)
• Floor braces 75-PERFORMANCE (two locations: front and center)
• TWS RS317 17-inch 7.5J wheels (3.8kg lighter per wheel than stock)
• Diverti air induction kit
• Top mount bushings (ASSO)
• Throttle spacer (ASSO)
• Performance collar rigid collar (ASSO)
• Brake pads front and rear (ASSO)

These modifications significantly changed the car’s performance and driving characteristics.

Driving Impressions of the Custom 595

Now, for the actual driving impressions. The first thing that surprised me was the improved ride comfort. Compared to the 595C I drove before, it is noticeably more supple. It’s not quite the firm yet instantly composed ride of a Porsche, but it’s a big improvement over stock.

What stood out most was the change in handling. The stock 595’s steering response was somewhat dull, and while this custom 595 still has some of that, when you apply load or reach a certain speed, it turns much better than expected.

Reinforced with floor braces

Stability has also improved dramatically. There’s no anxiety in corners, and you can confidently dive into the apex. This is likely thanks to the coilovers and floor braces. The body rigidity is increased, and tire contact feels enhanced. I believe the floor braces play a major role here.

Equipped with air induction kit

The engine characteristics have also changed. Originally, the engine wasn’t particularly powerful and the car is designed to make the most of its available power. While the power itself hasn’t changed much, the air induction kit improves throttle response and the intake sound resonates clearly inside the cabin. This allows you to enjoy the engine sound and response more while driving.

However, there is a caveat. To fully appreciate the handling improvements of this custom 595, you need to carry a certain speed. At low speeds, it might feel similar to stock, but once you get up to speed, the difference becomes clear.

Summary: The Effectiveness of the Customization and the Appeal of the 595

This custom 595 can be said to be a car that brings out the best of the 595 from a Porsche owner’s perspective.
It retains the compactness and nimbleness that make the stock 595 appealing, while adding driving stability and improved handling. What impressed me most was the stability and fun during high-speed cornering.
You get a sensation of confidently attacking corners that the stock 595 didn’t offer. This is a point that clearly shows the owner’s dedication.

The change in engine sound is also a big plus. The intake sound reverberating inside the cabin makes driving more enjoyable. This is not just about going fast but about enjoying the act of driving itself, something that resonates with Porsche enthusiasts.

However, understanding the true value of this custom 595 may require a certain level of driving skill and experience. The car’s behavior changes significantly depending on how you apply load and corner.

In conclusion, this custom 595 is a very interesting car that maximizes the 595’s appeal while adding Porsche-like driving enjoyment.

For those interested in the Abarth 595 or considering customization, I hope this review is helpful. The possibilities for customization are endless. I encourage you to experience the joy of creating a 595 tailored to your own taste.