The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider arrived on the scene as an intriguing alternative in the roadster segment, drawing attention from those considering the ubiquitous Mazda MX-5 Miata. While sharing a platform with the Miata, the 124 Spider brought its own unique flavor to the table, most notably with its Italian styling and turbocharged engine. For car enthusiasts and potential buyers alike, understanding the nuances of the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is crucial. Let’s delve into what makes this roadster stand out.
Fiat 124 Spider side view showcasing its sleek Italian design and roadster silhouette
Italian Design and Turbocharged Performance
Initially, many, including myself, were laser-focused on the MX-5 when considering a fun, open-top sports car. However, the Fiat 124 Spider emerged as a compelling contender. Fiat’s marketing efforts in the US might have been understated, but word-of-mouth and online reviews started highlighting the 124 Spider as a worthy alternative. The primary draw for many, and certainly for me, was the styling. The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider boasts a distinct Italian aesthetic that sets it apart from its Japanese counterpart. It’s arguably a more visually striking car, capturing the essence of classic Italian roadster design.
Beyond aesthetics, the allure of an Italian engine under the hood of an Italian-styled car, combined with the reliable underpinnings and build quality derived from the Mazda MX-5, was undeniable. Both vehicles rolled off the same production line in Hiroshima, ensuring a base level of quality and engineering. However, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider carved its own niche with several unique selling points compared to the MX-5:
- Italian Styling: A subjective but significant advantage for many, the 124 Spider’s design exudes Italian flair.
- Turbocharged Italian Engine: The 1.4L MultiAir turbo engine delivers a different driving experience. Torque is readily available from 3000 to 5500 rpm, with boost kicking in around 2800 rpm, offering a responsive and engaging power delivery with minimal turbo lag once on boost.
- Italian Suspension Tuning: The suspension setup in the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is tuned differently, resulting in reduced body roll and a more compliant ride over bumps, potentially offering a more comfortable daily driving experience without sacrificing sporty handling.
- Robust Transmissions: Both the 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions are derived from stronger NC generation MX-5 variants, suggesting enhanced durability.
- Enhanced Cabin Refinement: Features like thicker windshield glass and increased sound insulation in the soft top contribute to a quieter cabin, making longer drives more pleasant.
- Interior Upgrades: Slightly upgraded seats, door panels, and dashboard materials offer a more premium feel in the 124 Spider compared to the base MX-5.
- Practical Trunk Space: The 124 Spider provides a larger and more usable trunk, a surprising benefit in a compact roadster.
- Exclusivity: Being produced in smaller numbers, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider offers a degree of exclusivity for those wanting something less common than the MX-5.
Rear view of the 2016 Fiat 124 Spider highlighting its taillights and trunk design
Potential Drawbacks and Maintenance Considerations
However, owning a 2017 Fiat 124 Spider also comes with considerations:
- Out of Production: The 124 Spider is no longer in production, meaning you’ll be limited to the used car market.
- Parts Availability: Fiat-specific parts (non-Miata), particularly body panels, trim pieces, and unique lighting assemblies, may become harder to source in the future. This is a factor to consider for long-term ownership and potential repairs.
- Parts Pricing: Stellantis (Fiat’s parent company) markups on Mazda-sourced parts can be significant. Savvy owners may find it more cost-effective to source equivalent Mazda parts directly whenever possible, potentially saving 50% or more.
- Dealer Service: Access to knowledgeable service can be a concern. If a dedicated Fiat/Alfa Romeo dealership isn’t readily accessible, owners might have to rely on general Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM dealerships, where expertise on the Fiat 124 Spider may be less specialized. This could impact diagnostics and repairs requiring specific Fiat knowledge.
Trim Levels and Performance Characteristics
My personal experience is with a 2018 Fiat 124 Spider Lusso Red Top Edition equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission. While the automatic is smooth, it’s not as overtly sporty as the automatic found in cars like the BRZ and lacks a dedicated sport mode in the Lusso trim (unlike the Abarth version). The manual transmission in the 124 Spider, however, is the highly regarded 6-speed manual from the NC MX-5, known for its engaging and precise feel.
The 1.4L turbo engine is a highlight. It delivers a distinctly Italian character and ample torque. For manual transmission versions, it’s worth noting that the turbo can dump boost between shifts if not managed correctly. Aftermarket diverter valves, like those from Go Fast Bits (GFB), are available to mitigate boost loss during gear changes, enhancing the driving experience for manual versions.
Trim levels for the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider include:
- Classica: The base trim, which is considered somewhat basic in terms of infotainment and interior features, and typically comes with 16″ wheels.
- Lusso: The mid-range, luxury-focused trim, featuring upgraded interior materials and features like heated leather seats, offering a more refined experience.
- Abarth: The sport-oriented trim, boasting a limited-slip differential, strut tower braces, Brembo brakes, and more aggressive styling. While offering enhanced performance, the Abarth’s styling can be polarizing. The Abarth automatic transmission includes a Sport mode absent in the Lusso and Classica automatics, and even the manual Abarth may include a sport mode setting. The Abarth also features a slightly firmer suspension and a louder factory exhaust. Notably, Abarth models include TPMS sensors, while Classica and Lusso models utilize a wheel speed-based low tire pressure detection system, which is surprisingly effective.
All trims offered optional adaptive LED headlights, which significantly enhance the car’s appearance. In terms of handling, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider exhibits less body roll compared to the MX-5 due to its unique suspension tuning, although neither matches the tautness of cars like the GR86/BRZ.
Abarth 124 Spider front view showcasing its more aggressive styling
Abarth 124 Spider in a dynamic driving scene on a winding road
Conclusion: A Unique Roadster Choice
The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider presents a compelling and stylish alternative to the Mazda MX-5. It successfully blends Italian design flair with Japanese reliability, offering a unique roadster experience. While potential buyers should be mindful of parts availability and service considerations associated with an out-of-production model, the 124 Spider provides a distinctive and enjoyable open-top driving experience, particularly for those drawn to its Italian charm and turbocharged engine. For those seeking a roadster that stands out from the crowd, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is definitely worth considering in the used car market.
