Fiat 124 Spider Abarth
When Fiat announced the revival of the 124 Spider nameplate for 2016, expectations were high -- and the partnership with Mazda ensured the mechanical foundations were sound. Built on the same platform as the ND Mazda MX-5 Miata at Mazda's Hiroshima plant, the Fiat 124 Spider distinguished itself with unique Italian styling that paid homage to the original 1966 Spider, a turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir engine producing 170 horsepower, and a distinctly different character from its Japanese sibling. The Abarth variant dialed everything up a notch with a mechanical limited-slip differential, Bilstein dampers, Brembo brakes, a more aggressive exhaust note, and unique styling elements including a rear spoiler and exclusive alloy wheels. While the Mazda prioritized naturally aspirated purity, the Fiat offered accessible turbo torque that made it easier to exploit in everyday driving. The 1.4 MultiAir engine delivered its 250 Nm of torque from just 2500 rpm, giving the car a more relaxed but equally entertaining driving style. The partnership worked beautifully -- Mazda's legendary chassis dynamics combined with Fiat's turbocharged character created something genuinely unique in the affordable sports car market. The Abarth's Record Monza dual-mode exhaust could be switched between a refined cruise and a raucous snarl that belied the car's modest displacement. Inside, the cabin featured Abarth-specific leather seats, aluminum pedals, and the distinctive scorpion badge that has marked Italy's fastest small cars since the 1950s. Production ended in 2019 as emissions regulations and market dynamics shifted, making the 124 Spider Abarth a short-lived but thoroughly enjoyable modern interpretation of the classic Italian roadster formula.
Being based on the Mazda MX-5, the 124 Spider benefits from excellent Japanese build quality and reliability. The MultiAir turbo engine is generally reliable but check for boost leaks and ensure the intercooler pipework is in good condition. The turbo itself should be checked for play and oil leaks. Some owners report the infotainment system can be glitchy -- ensure it functions properly. The fabric roof should be inspected for wear, tears, and proper sealing. Being a relatively modern car, most examples will be in good condition, but check for any signs of accident damage as the aluminum bodywork can be expensive to repair. The Abarth-specific parts (Record Monza exhaust, Bilstein dampers, Brembo brakes) should all be in working order. Manual transmission examples are the most desirable. Check service history carefully -- while reliable, regular servicing is key to longevity of the turbo system.
The Fiat 124 Spider was produced at Mazda's Ujina Plant No. 1 in Hiroshima, Japan, on the same assembly line as the ND MX-5 Miata. Despite sharing the platform, roughly 90% of the body panels were unique to the Fiat. The engine was shipped from Fiat's Pratola Serra engine plant in Italy to Japan for installation. The Abarth variant was available from launch in most markets. Total production across all markets was modest -- the car never matched the MX-5's sales volumes but found a devoted niche following. The car was sold as the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth in North America and as the Abarth 124 Spider in European markets.