2017 FIAT 124 Spider
The 2017 FIAT 124 Spider marked a significant return for the iconic Italian nameplate, bringing a stylish, rear-wheel-drive roadster experience back to the market. Built in collaboration with Mazda and sharing its platform with the MX-5 Miata, the 124 Spider offered a distinctly Italian flavor with its own unique powertrain and styling cues. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a fun, open-air driving experience with a touch of European flair.
Highlights
- Engine: At the heart of the 124 Spider lies a spirited 1.4-liter turbocharged MultiAir four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharger provides a healthy dose of low-end torque, making it responsive and enjoyable for city driving and spirited back-road excursions. It's paired with either a precise six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic.
- Safety Features:
- Antilock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skids and loss of traction by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power when it detects the vehicle is about to spin out.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Minimizes wheelspin during acceleration, improving grip and stability, especially on slippery surfaces.
- Backup Camera: Provides a visual aid when reversing, enhancing safety and preventing collisions with objects or pedestrians behind the vehicle.
- Optional Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): Higher trims could be equipped with features like Blind Spot Monitoring (alerts drivers when a vehicle is in their blind spot) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (warns of approaching vehicles when backing out of parking spots).
- Trims:
- Classica: The entry-level trim that still offered the core roadster experience with essential features and a focus on driving dynamics.
- Lusso: "Lusso" translates to "luxury" in Italian, and this trim added upscale touches like leather-trimmed seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, automatic climate control, and larger 17-inch alloy wheels.
- Abarth: The performance-oriented trim. The Abarth received a sport-tuned suspension, a limited-slip differential, a more aggressive exhaust note, sport seats, and unique styling elements, including a sportier front fascia and rear diffuser. This trim was designed for those who prioritized sharper handling and a more engaging driving feel.
- Notable Aspects:
- Distinctive Italian Styling: The 124 Spider boasts a design that clearly differentiates it from its Japanese counterpart, drawing inspiration from the classic 1966 Fiat 124 Spider. It features a bold grille, distinctive headlights, and a sculpted body that evokes a sense of European elegance.
- Engaging Driving Dynamics: Leveraging the Mazda MX-5's renowned chassis and suspension tuning, the 124 Spider offers sharp handling, responsive steering, and a low center of gravity, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.
- Soft-Top Convenience: The manually operated soft top is a hallmark of classic roadsters. It's designed for quick and easy operation, allowing drivers to quickly convert the car from a coupe to an open-air experience with minimal effort.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 FIAT 124 Spider typically means embracing a fun and engaging driving experience. The turbocharged engine provides a lively and characterful power delivery, and the rear-wheel-drive layout, combined with its lightweight construction, translates into agile and communicative handling. The open-top motoring is a major draw, offering an immersive connection to the road and the environment.
In terms of maintenance, expect routine servicing like oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations to be comparable to other compact sports cars. Being based on a Mazda platform, parts availability should generally be good, and many independent mechanics will be familiar with its underpinnings. Insurance costs can vary depending on your location, driving record, and the specific trim level chosen, but as a relatively niche sports car, it might be slightly higher than a mainstream sedan.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 FIAT 124 Spider offers a lot of charm, potential buyers should be aware of a few things. The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, while peppy, might not feel as refined or as potent as some of its competitors with larger or more powerful engines. The interior, while well-appointed in higher trims, can feel a bit sparse in the base model, and the infotainment system might not be as cutting-edge as what's found in newer vehicles. Trunk space is limited, which is typical for a small roadster, so practicality for longer trips with significant luggage might be a concern. Lastly, while the collaboration with Mazda is a strength in terms of chassis, some might prefer the more focused, purer sports car feel of the MX-5 Miata, as the 124 Spider's torque delivery and styling offer a different character.
Overall Summary
The 2017 FIAT 124 Spider is a stylish and enjoyable rear-wheel-drive roadster that successfully blended Italian design flair with proven Japanese engineering. It offers a compelling package for those seeking a fun, open-air driving experience with a distinct personality. While it might not be the most practical or the most powerful option in its segment, its charming demeanor, engaging handling, and eye-catching looks make it a rewarding choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a classic roadster formula with a modern, European twist.
