The more powerful, faster Abarth version of Fiat's 124 Spider two-seater sports car is being launched by Desira dealerships this weekend.

The official launch weekend is being staged from Friday until Sunday at the Fiat performance brand's Desira sites at Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Diss and Bury St Edmunds.

The Abarth 124 Spider, is based on the standard Fiat roadster but used the more powerful 170hp version of the 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo petrol engine.

The six-speed manual model is priced at £29,565 on the road with the six-speed automatic at £31,605.

The new Abarth 124 spider marks the return of the 'spider' badge, and is the natural heir of the original model launched in 1972. The 2016 car incorporates performance, technology and iconic Italian style as the key factors of a very successful line-up.

Performance is assured with 0 to 62mph in 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 143mph but, adding to the sporty driving experience, the sound of the engine really matters in an Abarth so the Record Monza exhaust comes as standard, generating a unique growl.

The manual model is characterised by quick and accurate shifting with a short-throw, direct lever, while the Sequenziale Sportivo automatic gearbox, with steering wheel-mounted paddle shift, exploits all of the engine's torque.

Each car is tested and certified by an Abarth technician who applies a metal plaque showing the sequential number of each car to certify the exclusiveness of the Abarth 124 Spider.

Five body colours are available, emphasising sport and heritage – special solid Turini 1975 White and Costa Brava 1972 Red, metallic Isola d'Elba 1974 Blue, Portogallo 1974 Grey and San Marino 1972 Black.

The new Abarth 124 Spider has a three-gauge instrument binnacle featuring a large central rev counter, a speedometer on the right and a data display on the left allowing the driver to monitor all key driving information at a glance.

Standard equipment includes climate control, cruise control, electrically-folding door mirrors and an infotainment system with ergonomic, selector dial on the centre console. The system features a seven-inch colour display, DAB digital tuner, MP3 player, two USB ports, aux input and Bluetooth connectivity.

There is also a stereo with four speakers while, for superior sound quality, a Bose premium sound system with nine speakers, including dual headrest speakers on both seats and a subwoofer, is optional, as is satellite navigation.

Gerry Southerington, Abarth brand manager, said: 'The 124 Spider is a new car and a new chapter in the exciting Abarth story. It's what many of our existing customers have been waiting for, and I am confident we will now welcome a new group of owners into the Abarth family.

'Great looks, stunning performance and unique equipment will set the 124 Spider apart from other roadsters and I am excited about this car's UK launch.'

Visitors are encouraged to confirm if they will be attending the launch weekend by logging on to www.desiragroup.com

Desira Norwich – Heigham Street, telephone 01603 397719.

Desira Great Yarmouth – North Quay, NR30 1RD, telephone 01493 808717.

Desira Diss – Victoria Road, IP22 4GS, telephone 01379 770740.

Desira Bury St Edmunds – Western Way, IP33 3SP, telephone 01284 333352.