In the realm of automotive enthusiasts, there has always been a special place for roadsters – those small, open-top cars designed with the sole purpose of delivering driving pleasure. However, in recent years, roadsters seemed to be on the verge of extinction, until Fiat and Abarth decided to breathe new life into legendary names in the form of the Fiat 124 Spider and Abarth 124 Spider. This endeavor was a collaborative effort between Fiat and Mazda, resulting in the revival of a classic that has captured the hearts of driving enthusiasts around the world.
From Concept to Reality
Initially, the joint project between Fiat and Mazda aimed to develop two roadsters sharing the same platform. However, as the process unfolded, it became clear that the differences between them would be significant enough to give each car its unique identity and character. As a result, the Fiat 124 Spider and Abarth 124 Spider emerged with their distinctive personalities, despite their foundation on the Mazda MX-5 platform.
Regrettably, the collaboration between Fiat and Alfa Romeo for the Spider model remained a concept and did not come to fruition. Nevertheless, Fiat decided to resurrect the classic name Fiat 124 Spider and found in the collaborative project with Mazda the perfect avenue for doing so.
Ultimately, two distinct models were born: the Fiat 124 Spider and its sportier counterpart, the Abarth 124 Spider. Both roadsters made their debut in 2016 and immediately gained the appreciation of driving enthusiasts worldwide. Let’s take a closer look at these models to explore the differences and similarities between them.
Fiat 124 Spider: Italian Style and Performance
The Fiat 124 Spider is a reinterpretation of the classic roadster, drawing inspiration from the original model produced between 1966 and 1985. This car captivates with its Italian style and distinctive design elements. Despite sharing the Mazda MX-5 platform, Fiat ensured that the 124 Spider had a unique and exclusive appearance.
The interior of the car is breathtaking in its simplicity and elegance. Leather seats, aluminum accents, and a classic steering wheel combine to create an unparalleled ambiance. This car is designed for those who appreciate style and tradition.
Under the hood of the Fiat 124 Spider lies a turbocharged 1.4-liter gasoline engine, producing 140 HP and 240 Nm of torque in the European version, adapted for emissions standards. However, in the American market, this very engine delivers an impressive 160 HP and 250 Nm of torque, making it more dynamic than the Mazda MX-5. It’s the essence of “dolce vita” on four wheels.
The Fiat 124 Spider is available with a six-speed manual (or automatic Aisin B400, which has a dangerous manufacturing defect subject to service action!) gearbox, transferring power to the rear wheels. This setup ensures excellent driving experiences and incredible stability during cornering. The suspension has been fine-tuned to cater to the needs of drivers, and the low center of gravity makes the Fiat 124 Spider a true “driver’s car.”
Abarth 124 Spider: Sporty Performance and Competitive Spirit
If the Fiat 124 Spider is all about elegance and style, the Abarth 124 Spider embodies sportiness and competitiveness. Abarth is a renowned brand for tuning Fiat models, and now, they have transformed the 124 Spider into a true sports car.
The Abarth 124 Spider features a more potent engine than its “civilian” counterpart. Its 1.4-liter turbocharged engine generates a remarkable 170 HP and 250 Nm of torque. This translates to even better performance, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 232 km/h. This car is designed for those who love sporty driving and the thrill of being behind the wheel.
Similar to the Fiat 124 Spider, the Abarth 124 Spider is available with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. However, the suspension is tuned for an even sportier character, enabling precise handling in corners and even more driving enjoyment.
Production in Japan
It’s worth mentioning that both the Fiat 124 Spider, Abarth 124 Spider, and Mazda MX-5 are produced in Japan. This underscores the significant influence of Japanese technology and craftsmanship on these cars, which have garnered acclaim worldwide.
Fiat and Abarth 124 Spider vs. the Competition
When compared to other models in the market, the Fiat and Abarth 124 Spider distinguish themselves with their Italian style and character. While the Mazda MX-5 is an excellent roadster, it offers a slightly different concept, focusing more on pure driving pleasure.
In comparing Fiat and Abarth to the competition, it’s worth noting the Toyota 86 (also known as the GT86 or Subaru BRZ) and the Porsche 718 Boxster. The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ offer similar performance and concepts to the Fiat 124 Spider, but they have a slightly different approach to style and finishing. The Porsche 718 Boxster, on the other hand, is in a higher price bracket, offering a different level of performance. Your choice between these models will depend on your preferences and budget.
The Choices
The Fiat 124 Spider, Abarth 124 Spider, and Mazda MX-5 represent three distinct approaches to the classic roadster. The Fiat 124 Spider pays homage to Italian style and elegance, the Abarth 124 Spider embodies sportsmanship and adrenaline, and the Mazda MX-5 represents Japanese excellence and the spirit of roadsters. The choice is yours, based on your preferences and expectations. Each of these cars has something unique to offer, captivating open-air driving enthusiasts.
Prices for Fiat models start at approximately 15,000 EUR and can go up to 30,000 EUR, depending on the version and options. The starting price for the Abarth 124 Spider is around 19,000 EUR and can reach as high as 46,000 EUR, reflecting the sportier performance of this model.
Both the Fiat and Abarth 124 Spider are available in Europe, but their availability may vary by region and market. In total, there are more than 200 used Fiat and Abarth 124 Spiders available in the European market.
In conclusion, the Fiat and Abarth 124 Spider mark the revival of a classic roadster in a modern interpretation that will delight open-air driving enthusiasts. These cars combine style, tradition, and modernity. Your choice between them depends on your preferences – whether you cherish Italian style and elegance or crave sporty performance and a competitive spirit. Ultimately, each of these models promises unforgettable open-air driving experiences.
| Car | Fiat 124 Spider | Abarth 124 Spider | Mazda MX-5 ND (the slowest) | Mazda MX-5 ND RF (the fastest) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Inline-4 1368 cm³ Multiair Turbo | Inline-4 1368 cm³ Multiair Turbo | Inline-4 1496 cm³ Skyactiv G-131 | Inline-4 1998 cm³ Skyactiv G-184 |
| Power | 140 HP / 5500 | 170 HP / 5500 | 131 HP /7000 | 184 HP /7000 |
| Torque | 249 Nm / 2250 | 249 Nm / 2250 | 150 Nm / 4800 | 205 Nm / 4000 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 7.5 s | 6.8 s | 8.6 s | 6.8 s |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 232 km/h | 203 km/h | 220 km/h |
