Italy vs Italy — 1966 vs 1972
| 124 Spider 2000 | 124 Abarth Rally | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 102 hp | 128 hp |
| Torque | 120 lb-ft | 123 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,995 cc | 1,756 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 8.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 113 mph | 121 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,304 lbs | 2,006 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,280 mm | 2,278 mm |
| Length | 4,040 mm | 3,920 mm |
| Units Produced | 198,000 | 1,013 |
| Original MSRP | $9,800 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 8/10 |
The 1972 Fiat 124 Abarth Rally emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1966 Fiat 124 Spider 2000 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Fiat 124 Spider lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1966 Fiat 124 Spider 2000 with the 1972 Fiat 124 Abarth Rally reveals how Fiat refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1972 Fiat 124 Abarth Rally holds a clear advantage in raw power with 128 hp compared to 102 hp, a 26-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat 124 Spider uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,995 cc, while the Fiat 124 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,756 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Fiat 124 Abarth Rally edges ahead at 8.0 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. The Fiat 124 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 298 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,013 units built, the 1972 Fiat 124 Abarth Rally is considerably scarcer than the Fiat 124 Spider's 198,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1972 Fiat 124 Abarth Rally commands a significant premium over the 1966 Fiat 124 Spider 2000, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1972 Fiat 124 Abarth Rally rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.