Where the Toyota 86 and the MX-5 Miata are autocross and track-day darlings, the softer-handling Fiat is the small roadster to buy if you prioritize sunny-day cruises over track events. At low engine speeds, the 1.4-liter has little to give, and its gusto wears off well before the tach needle hits redline. At least when kept in the middle of the range, the Fiat engine amuses with solid punch and a brassy exhaust note.
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It can be fun trying to keep the 124's engine on boil by constantly working the buttery six-speed manual ( a six-speed automatic is optional), but the nonlinear power delivery makes the task tricky. Likes: Italianesque exhaust note, slick six-speed manual, less punishing ride than rivals.ĭislikes: Difficult to keep engine in its powerband, laggy at low speeds, handling isn't as engaging as the Miata's.Īll 124 Spider models come with a turbocharged four-cylinder making 160 horsepower in Classica and Lusso models and 164 horsepower in the Abarth. Standard features include a six-speed manual transmission, a limited-slip differential, and a sport exhaust with four exhaust tips. You could add thousands of dollars in options, but you'll have the same driving enjoyment either way, thanks to the Abarth's more sporting attitude. The pick of the 124 Spider range is still the rowdy Abarth version. Classica models offer optional racing stripes in two different styles–Double Rally stripe and Retro stripe–and can be ordered with a blacked-out Urbana appearance package. Abarth models now come with a sport exhaust system and can be ordered with the Veleno Appearance Group package, which adds Abarth-branded floor mats, a metal-covered footrest for the left foot, and red mirror caps, tow hook, and front-bumper lip spoiler. The 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen and a federally required backup camera are now standard across the 124 Spider lineup, and the Technology Group package now includes SiriusXM satellite radio and keyless passive entry. Enthusiasts such as us will prefer the rowdier Abarth version with its more aggressive suspension and raspier exhaust note, but no matter which model you choose, the 124 Spider is no grocery getter, so plan accordingly. It's a bit more relaxed than the Miata, but it still provides thrills on a twisty road-and the same top-down, wind-in-your-hair feeling of freedom. It's more than a bunch of new badges, however, as the 124 Spider sports an exclusive turbocharged Fiat engine, unique suspension tuning, and a more upscale interior. With its unique mix of Italian style and Japanese engineering, the Mazda MX-5 Miata–based Fiat 124 Spider is a sushi roll stuffed in cannelloni.
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