Looks are subjective. Drive them back to back & you get the feel of both these roadsters. I did that in the 1st week of March 2017. 1st was the White 2017 Fiat 124 Spyder Abarth which had Brembo brakes & did look good. Trimed in black a sharp looking car. My focus is daily driving not weekend toy. That said the clutch was heavy ( Vs my 2014 Honda Accord Coupe V6 manual 6 speed ) , too heavy for a sports car IMO. The shift gate felt tight , kept thinking I was in 1st from a stop but it was 3rd. 2 stalls as a result. Throttle response was delayed by the turbo lag & I confess it was the 1st turbo engine I've driven. So as a daily driver this car had negatives besides lack of space. Manually operating the top was a 2 second job either up or down ! Next day was a White 2016 Mazda MX-5 Club soft top with the Brembo brakes / BBS wheels. Nice black accents too ( front splitter / side skirts / rear trim. The clutch felt so light / the shift gate wasn't tight so right away the MX-5 felt much easier to drive fast. Throttle response was instant with the Naturally aspirated 2.0L engine. In turns the MX-5 felt more athletic , very nimble Vs the 124. Interiors are very similar / top was again easy ! The winner in eye daily driving eyes was the MX-5 Club by a large margin. So I put my money down & bought that MX-5 Club. 3.6 years later so happy with this car ! Cold weather hits I put the winter tires on & its amazing in snow. In 2019 the MX-5 got more HP & upped the Red line too. Still great cars good to have the choice between the 2.
Just to clarify, you're cool with the 10 minute run time? I only ask because I'm occasionally confronted with social media experts who claim that shorter is always better.
***** Yes, the 10 to 15 minute videos are awesome! I feel like anything longer than 15, for a vehicle, is going into to much depth. And you guys as hosts make the finishing touches!
@@1PITIFULDUDE Drive them back to back & I guarantee the MX-5 will look much better ! It drives better & you don't have to worry about a focked up oil change every 5000 miles ! Check out the oil change procedure ! Fiat might be pulling out of the US with the 124 in 2021 ! If you BUY a car on looks Vs cost of ownership many of those people have regretted that decision EVERY DAY OF OWNERSHIP !
Great music, damn these reviews are shockingly good. I always say to myself whenever I am watching these that I can't believe Kelly Blue Book would create these fun awesome reviews. Bravo.
Its a rare car for sure. About the best thing it has going for it. Don't ever get into an accident with your 124 because parts will be VERY RARE to fix it !
Got a 124 Lusso w/Stick, Fully Loaded... OMG.. HEAVEN !!!!.... Good-Win Racing 4 Tip Racing Exhaust, makes it even Faster than the Factory Abarth .... Getting THAT, then the Go Fast Bits DV+ Diverter Valve... WOO HOO.... Myself?, I Don't care for the Front / Back end treatments on the Abarth....SO.... I get MORE power than the factory ABARTH, with the LOOKS of a LUSSO..... HAPPY CAMPER !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOVE THIS CAR !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BUY ONE !!!!!! FUN !!!... 54, and FEEL LIKE A KID AGAIN !!!!.... DO IT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I HATE the front/back of the Abarth.... BUTT UGLY.... I'll take my LUSSO FauxBarth.. Faster,,Then Coilovers, Anthacite Wheels, etc... Only thing missing will be the Scorpion Badges... I could give a fuck about the rest And CHEAP?? I"ll be paying MORE for my car in the end.. without the BUTT UGLY ABARTH LOOK.... Fiat NOW wants $2000 for the black hood / trunk.. which I HATE TOO !!
Absolutely agree with you there Dennis. Unless its made out of carbon fiber, there's no real reason to black our your hood/trunk lid. It just cheapens the look of the car. I'm also not a fan of black rims (again with the Abarth). It totally has no contrast with the tires, which is a shame cause the Abarth has nicely styled wheels. I'm getting a manual fully optioned Lusso myself (in brown leather). Can't wait to feel the same level of enthusiasm you have for this vehicle.
I took a 124 up the PCH for a few days and it's a pretty awesome little car (very little). I'd definitely consider purchasing one for fun weekend trips.
So, I own a red Abarth with the Heritage Racing stripe and I will tell you I have never owned a car that attracted so much attention. I can rarely pull into a parking lot without someone coming up to me and asking about the car. Fiat hit it out of the park with the Abarth 124 Spider styling.
@@BibtheBoulder to each his own. One man's ceiling is another man's floor. I much prefer the top of the line model with all the options and the Abarth badging. Most people have no idea what an Abarth is, so it make the car more fun to own.
Next time, drive the 6 speed manual. It's a whole new ball game! I ended up test driving-and buying a Spider Classica after comparing and driving a new MX5. My only negative with the Spider so far is the noise-as with the MX5 at highway speeds (70ish) ...especially with the top up. Other than that, it's a quiet, smooth driving car. It's a blast to drive, and my mileage is increasing (30+) now that my foot is getting educated. The added weight is mainly for extra sound-deadening. Thank you! The turbo lag is hardly noticeable (especially with the manual 6 speed), and gives the Spider a huge amount of passing power on the highway. If your legs are long, like mine, that's what the tilt steering wheel is for. Did you not know about that? Fiat has a winner!
M. Edwards but they do have 2 Tone Dash options. Did you see the saddle leather? Also thanks for the info about the sound level at 70. That's a little bit disconcerting but.....there's always some sort of trade off...
Yes, I noticed the "tobacco" color option on the upgraded dash, which was the overall interior color of my 2000 Evolution Orange Miata. I've seen a few negative comments about the turbo lag. Believe me, it's hardly noticeable. This car has PLENTY of pep and I love the extra power the turbo gives you without having to downshift to pass!
I did back to back test drives 2 completely different cars in the 6 speed manual. 2017 Abarth Vs 2016 Club. No contest ! MX-5 all day every day over the Fiat 124. Heavy clutch / turbo lag / drop off at 6000 rpm / felt heavier in corners ... the 124 failed to impress me DRIVING IT ! the MX-5 super light clutch / instant throttle response / flat torque curve / nimble in corners had me BUYING IT ! For 2020 I don't see the Fiat 124 surviving past this year. Limited dealers / limited places for service. Turbo's run hotter than naturally aspirated cars so it won't last as long.
Miata racing is probably the most fun race I've ever watched. They don't care about contact and will go 6 or 7 wide on a turn that usually will have 2 or 3.
I have to test drive an MX-5, I'm eager to see how I fit at just a bit more than 6 foot 1 inch. I'd go with the MX-5, mostly because I trust their engines over a Fiat engine.
Yea , I own a 2016 MX-5 Club & did a back to back test Vs a 2107 Fiat 124 Spyder. They drive like 2 different cars. The 124 was a let down to me. Wanted to like it but the MX-5 just drove so much better !
This car is a knock out and a super reliable joint venture. Sergio did some good things but he should have let this 124 Spider carry on as a halo car for Fiat in America just like Mazda is doing with the Miata.
Learn to drive a turbo and all is good. I started driving turbos 32 years ago, when turbo lag was counted in multiple seconds, not a fraction of second. Keep in mind, this is not a drag-racer, it's a momentum car.
From a start the MX-5 is quicker with a flat torque curve. The 124 has turbo lag & also drops after 6,000 rpms. The MX-5 has a super light clutch feel while the 124 clutch feels like it came from an old pickup truck. Very disappointing on a sports car to have a heavy clutch. Takes the fun right out of it in traffic.
Id rather buy this, I’m not bringing it to the track, I just want a nice convertible i can cruise along the beach in, and also I largely prefer the classic styling of the spider over the futuristic look of the mazda
Trunk space is OK-a tad larger than the MX5, the glove box-now between the seats is very adequate and very deep. There is also a storage compartment behind both seats.
This one is very reliable, the 1.8 is based on the abrath version, that engine has been for a while without any problems, so the reability is going to be good, the car is made in the same factory in Hiroshima like the Miata and is nearly the same car, just with the fiat engine, so don't worry about the reability! ;)
Its reliable, it's made by Mazda in the same factory, Hiroshima but the engine is from the abrath 500, that car has been for a while and seems like this little engine is very reliable and tuneable, there is a chip tune where this car can go up to the 200hp, amazing!
+FutureParadise looking to the reliability index made by those that put their money in it (Warranty Direct), Fiat's engines are more reliable than Mazda's.
I've known Fiat owners that have owned Fiats for years with no issues. I had a 2000 Miata that nearly took me to the poor house. This Spider, according to the hundreds of OWNERS on the owners forum LOVE their Spiders!
Proud owner of a Fiat 124 Classico here. Love love love my car. Only problems: comes with a rear license plate holder that has no instructions on how to install, and she absolutely refuses to go into reverse unless I'm at a dead stop. Otherwise, my Italian girlfriend is a dream...
My Classica has a tendency to want to go back in 3rd rather than 5th, but I think it's still "breaking in". I've read going forward and putting in reverse could damage the linkage or something. I can't put mine back in 1st unless I'm almost stopped, but that hasn't bothered me. I love my spaceship!
As a current Fiat 124 Spider Classica owner, with over 20,000 fun miles, the only advice I can give is NOT to get an automatic....which are on the resale market 9:1 vs the manual in my area. I have the 6 speed manual and couldn't be happier.....and I' m a previous Miata owner. If you''re too fat or two tall, get a Mercury. Also, I have YET to see a telescoping steering wheel on a car. I do wish peope would stop mentioning that's "missing" on this car.
Saw a Hellcat engine jammed into a Miata ( NA ? ) , it left chunks of rubber everywhere plus huge clouds of smoke. Check it out ... do a Google search !
Except for those with knee issues that a manual kills the deal for. Not to mention, it makes for a really nice deal when you purchase for many as they are getting a good discount due to the AT. I got mine for a DD, and I've gotten tired (not to mention my knees heavily protesting) the constant shifting of manuals over time.
I agree 100%! The traffic around where I live has quadrupled over the last few years and there are far too many red lights! Stop and go traffic is a nightmare when you are driving a straight stick. I loved to shift when I was young, but that was...well, let's just say, a LONG time ago! Thank God for automatics!
I've seen in quite a few reviews that this automatic is pretty damn good. Not to mention that it's faster than the manual at zero to 60. It also has manual control so it's not like it's boring or anything. Sure you have better control with a true manual but it's 2017. Time to stop hating on automatics. They're pretty good units. Also, there are plenty of True car guy / gals that drive automatics...
@@tracyperry6231 I bought the MX-5 Club with a 6 speed manual a joy to drive even in traffic. That 124 clutch was no joy though ... for some reason really felt heavy like it belongs in an old pickup truck.
love the F 124 . I am just too terrified of FIAT's abysmal reliability from Consumer Reports to buy this car. I hope the model turns out better in time than the 500.
cdupright Consumer reports are a bunch of Japanese biased retards I had an Abarth for 4 years not a single problem. My neighbors all drive fiat 500's never having any reliability issues if any sort. Go and buy the car you WONT be disappointed
For a REAL reliability index, look to the ones that PUT THEIR MONEY in it, IE that of Warranty Direct. Current days Fiats are more reliable than WV, and even of some of the Japanese (IE Subaru and Mitsubishi). The general reliability of Fiat is still a little worse than that of Mazda, but, looking to the single parts, their engines (that't the part they put in this car) ARE MORE RELIABLE than those of Mazda.
@@neutronalchemist3241 Your funny ! Turbo's run hotter than Naturally Aspirated engines. They will break quicker ! That Skyactiv 2.0L engine is great with a flat torque curve. Instant throttle response .. . no waiting !
Can someone explain me why fiat has bad reputation in therms of reliable in America? Because it has been in the us for five or six years with de "500" that is a worldwide reliable car Beside that, fiat was in the 70's with models that here in Argentina were bulletproof engine vehicles that you still see on the streets And i dont think that a lot of cars have been sold in those years
The 124 has classic vintage Ferrari styling, way better than the Miata and also is faster, quieter, and handles better. This is a winner and I will go test drive one.
Nice review, but no mention of engine reliability!? Who cares how fun it is to drive if it's crap under the hood. Styling is MUCH better than Miata. But I'm willing to bet Mazda reliability is far superb. As Fiats have a reputation for being unreliable and in the shop all the time. Do your homework, we need information not just a fluff..
Well, at least the recent(ish) Grande Puntos have been quite reliable. You can see many for sale with almost 300 000 km (186 000 miles) in the meter and still working well.
+o2i3u5klwerh. More like the Apple users that fall into the "fad" and buy an Apple Product or people buying a Miata because it looks cool. Android being the 124 Spyder which both suffer from a negative image but is actually better.
What can an iPhone do that an Android can't. To me, an iPhone is prettier looking but not as capable. Maybe when they first came out, they were the phone to have.. but that ended, what, 5-6 years ago?
@@thenov1944 The 2017 Fiat 124 Abarth model weighs in about 150 pounds more than my 2016 MX-5 Club. I test drove the 2017 124 Abarth with the 6 speed manual after seeing an online RUclips review in March 2017. The local Fiat / Alfa Romeo dealer had one in stock so one nice March day after work I stopped by to test drive that car. White with Black trim Brembo brakes nice wheels looked sharp ! The test drive was a letdown. The clutch had a heavy feel to it. The shifter was notchy hard to find 1st Vs 3rd gear. Turbo had lag so throttle response was delayed. I was in traffic so that heavy clutch was being felt at every stop light. Even the exhaust note was muted unlike a Abarth 500 that pulled in right in front of me that sounded awesome. The next day I test drove a 2016 Mazda MX-5 Club soft top with the Brembo / BBS package in Artic White with Black trim. Same color scheme as the Fiat 124 ! Nice light clutch / throttle response was instant from the naturally aspirated engine. The shifter fell into my hand & the gears were easy to find. What a difference in driving feel over the Fiat ! I made an offer & bought that 2016 MX-5 Club because its drivetrain was so much better than the Fiat 124. I also liked the curves of the MX5 especially from the drivers seat the hood reminds of a Stingray from years before. Now as of 2021 Fiat does not manufacture the 124 Spyder. Consider limited dealerships too ! Also parts will be hard to find. As the car is a peicemeal parts bin put together. The glass is all Mopar branded. The interior has Mazda parts but also the gauges / seats / interior trim is Fiat brand. The engine / suspension / exhaust / body panels are all Fiat parts ! So if you ever get into an accident good luck getting parts to fix it. Also they will be more expensive if you can find them ! Saw the oil change procedure & its a PITA ! Why do you bury an oil filter & turn the bottom side up ? What a mess ! Exclusivity works both ways. NO THANK YOU Fiat !
So if you didn't like the design and then found out it was from pininfarina, you would like the design but if you did like the design and found out it wasn't from them you would suddenly not like the design?
I wouldn't trust this reviewer regardless of what he said. He is just desciber of what you get. That tells me nothing. I already know the stats. Really?
Genuinely think this Fiat is one of the best looking cars in recent memory. Just looks strait awesome. I'd get this one over the Miata.
+Angus O'Leary Absolutly man!
Angus O'Leary my favorite from fiat is the 500
Well if u buy a car cuz it looks good, u're the perfect fiat customer
Angus O'Leary I must agree! I prefer this look to the Miata! Sharp!
Guenounovitch Really? I'm one of those superficial automotive enthusiasts who needs his performance car to look as good as it handles. Crazy, I know.
Drove the Abarth 124 yesterday. The sweet exhaust note alone is reason enough for me.
MrButtonpresser EXACTLY!
Did you get to drive the Classica or Lusso as well? And how do they compare?
Did you BUY it Mr sweet exhaust note ?
Alan Gregori No. Darn thing broke down in the demo drive. Yep.
@@MrButtonpresser Nothing like a Fiat for Reliability !
I would definitely get the 124 over the Miata. I think it looks way better
Looks are subjective. Drive them back to back & you get the feel of both these roadsters. I did that in the 1st week of March 2017. 1st was the White 2017 Fiat 124 Spyder Abarth which had Brembo brakes & did look good. Trimed in black a sharp looking car. My focus is daily driving not weekend toy. That said the clutch was heavy ( Vs my 2014 Honda Accord Coupe V6 manual 6 speed ) , too heavy for a sports car IMO. The shift gate felt tight , kept thinking I was in 1st from a stop but it was 3rd. 2 stalls as a result. Throttle response was delayed by the turbo lag & I confess it was the 1st turbo engine I've driven. So as a daily driver this car had negatives besides lack of space. Manually operating the top was a 2 second job either up or down ! Next day was a White 2016 Mazda MX-5 Club soft top with the Brembo brakes / BBS wheels. Nice black accents too ( front splitter / side skirts / rear trim. The clutch felt so light / the shift gate wasn't tight so right away the MX-5 felt much easier to drive fast. Throttle response was instant with the Naturally aspirated 2.0L engine. In turns the MX-5 felt more athletic , very nimble Vs the 124. Interiors are very similar / top was again easy ! The winner in eye daily driving eyes was the MX-5 Club by a large margin. So I put my money down & bought that MX-5 Club. 3.6 years later so happy with this car ! Cold weather hits I put the winter tires on & its amazing in snow. In 2019 the MX-5 got more HP & upped the Red line too. Still great cars good to have the choice between the 2.
A 10-minute review? Thanks KBB!
Hope they keep them up! Love mid length reviews, especially with the people of kbb.
Just to clarify, you're cool with the 10 minute run time? I only ask because I'm occasionally confronted with social media experts who claim that shorter is always better.
***** Yes, the 10 to 15 minute videos are awesome! I feel like anything longer than 15, for a vehicle, is going into to much depth. And you guys as hosts make the finishing touches!
Good to know. Thanks for chiming in!
Personally I think that the exterior of the 124 is better looking than the miata
I agree, the ND and RF look goofy and somewhat cheap but to each her/his own.
@@1PITIFULDUDE Drive them back to back & I guarantee the MX-5 will look much better ! It drives better & you don't have to worry about a focked up oil change every 5000 miles ! Check out the oil change procedure ! Fiat might be pulling out of the US with the 124 in 2021 ! If you BUY a car on looks Vs cost of ownership many of those people have regretted that decision EVERY DAY OF OWNERSHIP !
This guys facial expressions really add an edge to these reviews. I think it's really funny
Great music, damn these reviews are shockingly good. I always say to myself whenever I am watching these that I can't believe Kelly Blue Book would create these fun awesome reviews. Bravo.
Made my day. Always love when people notice my music. Cheers!
***** Hey Micah!
well done, micah's informal style goes well with youtube...
I love the music! What do you typically use to make it?
Hey!
I just purchased this car. Very nice and economical. I got it for 21k. Unique too. Not too many people drive this car.
Its a rare car for sure. About the best thing it has going for it. Don't ever get into an accident with your 124 because parts will be VERY RARE to fix it !
One of the honest and non biased reviews of 124...a classic looking value many are missing ...and should look at as a credible roadster option.
I think the Fiat looks better
I always look forward to these reviews, especially by this guy. They are fun to watch, very informative, and also very well directed.
Got a 124 Lusso w/Stick, Fully Loaded... OMG.. HEAVEN !!!!.... Good-Win Racing 4 Tip Racing Exhaust, makes it even Faster than the Factory Abarth .... Getting THAT, then the Go Fast Bits DV+ Diverter Valve... WOO HOO.... Myself?, I Don't care for the Front / Back end treatments on the Abarth....SO.... I get MORE power than the factory ABARTH, with the LOOKS of a LUSSO..... HAPPY CAMPER !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOVE THIS CAR !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BUY ONE !!!!!! FUN !!!... 54, and FEEL LIKE A KID AGAIN !!!!.... DO IT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I HATE the front/back of the Abarth.... BUTT UGLY.... I'll take my LUSSO FauxBarth.. Faster,,Then Coilovers, Anthacite Wheels, etc... Only thing missing will be the Scorpion Badges... I could give a fuck about the rest And CHEAP?? I"ll be paying MORE for my car in the end.. without the BUTT UGLY ABARTH LOOK.... Fiat NOW wants $2000 for the black hood / trunk.. which I HATE TOO !!
Absolutely agree with you there Dennis. Unless its made out of carbon fiber, there's no real reason to black our your hood/trunk lid. It just cheapens the look of the car. I'm also not a fan of black rims (again with the Abarth). It totally has no contrast with the tires, which is a shame cause the Abarth has nicely styled wheels. I'm getting a manual fully optioned Lusso myself (in brown leather). Can't wait to feel the same level of enthusiasm you have for this vehicle.
Aw come on but you can't say the Abarth is ugly that's just blasphemy
Alex EMP i dont think its ugly. but IMO the Lusso looks better.
Congrats Dennis ! Not too many of these around. Exclusive club.
nothing like waking up to a KBB review!
I took a 124 up the PCH for a few days and it's a pretty awesome little car (very little). I'd definitely consider purchasing one for fun weekend trips.
Love mine. I get complements all the time. Way better looking than the Miata.
This just made me put this on my list for a new convertible
So, I own a red Abarth with the Heritage Racing stripe and I will tell you I have never owned a car that attracted so much attention. I can rarely pull into a parking lot without someone coming up to me and asking about the car. Fiat hit it out of the park with the Abarth 124 Spider styling.
I prefer the base 124. Not keen on the Abarth. Looks like Tracey Emin has bastardised it....
@@BibtheBoulder to each his own. One man's ceiling is another man's floor. I much prefer the top of the line model with all the options and the Abarth badging. Most people have no idea what an Abarth is, so it make the car more fun to own.
@@Kstxrd Well said...
Dang...that was a good review. Once of your better ones, if I may say so.
Best looking 'average price' car to be released in a long time
Next time, drive the 6 speed manual. It's a whole new ball game! I ended up test driving-and buying a Spider Classica after comparing and driving a new MX5. My only negative with the Spider so far is the noise-as with the MX5 at highway speeds (70ish) ...especially with the top up. Other than that, it's a quiet, smooth driving car. It's a blast to drive, and my mileage is increasing (30+) now that my foot is getting educated. The added weight is mainly for extra sound-deadening. Thank you! The turbo lag is hardly noticeable (especially with the manual 6 speed), and gives the Spider a huge amount of passing power on the highway. If your legs are long, like mine, that's what the tilt steering wheel is for. Did you not know about that? Fiat has a winner!
M. Edwards but they do have 2 Tone Dash options. Did you see the saddle leather? Also thanks for the info about the sound level at 70. That's a little bit disconcerting but.....there's always some sort of trade off...
Yes, I noticed the "tobacco" color option on the upgraded dash, which was the overall interior color of my 2000 Evolution Orange Miata. I've seen a few negative comments about the turbo lag. Believe me, it's hardly noticeable. This car has PLENTY of pep and I love the extra power the turbo gives you without having to downshift to pass!
I did back to back test drives 2 completely different cars in the 6 speed manual. 2017 Abarth Vs 2016 Club. No contest ! MX-5 all day every day over the Fiat 124. Heavy clutch / turbo lag / drop off at 6000 rpm / felt heavier in corners ... the 124 failed to impress me DRIVING IT ! the MX-5 super light clutch / instant throttle response / flat torque curve / nimble in corners had me BUYING IT ! For 2020 I don't see the Fiat 124 surviving past this year. Limited dealers / limited places for service. Turbo's run hotter than naturally aspirated cars so it won't last as long.
Miata racing is probably the most fun race I've ever watched. They don't care about contact and will go 6 or 7 wide on a turn that usually will have 2 or 3.
I have to test drive an MX-5, I'm eager to see how I fit at just a bit more than 6 foot 1 inch.
I'd go with the MX-5, mostly because I trust their engines over a Fiat engine.
noah wayne nah lmao
Yea , I own a 2016 MX-5 Club & did a back to back test Vs a 2107 Fiat 124 Spyder. They drive like 2 different cars. The 124 was a let down to me. Wanted to like it but the MX-5 just drove so much better !
lame excuse to follow the other Miata sheeple. be a wolf, dawg
Love this guys reviews!
This car is a knock out and a super reliable joint venture. Sergio did some good things but he should have let this 124 Spider carry on as a halo car for Fiat in America just like Mazda is doing with the Miata.
Came here because I’m debating between this and Alfa Romeo. Thoughts?
Great video. KBB does its job well. Kudos.
Beautiful spider! Love it!
From one dad to another, "what if" I see what you did with the Wild Krats reference.
Exceptionally good, all round review :D
My review was better. Watch it.
chad haire Great video chad - both directed towards different audiences.
have 166 more to watch
Awsome review!!! Good Driving On The Track!!!
1:59 love that shot!
Learn to drive a turbo and all is good. I started driving turbos 32 years ago, when turbo lag was counted in multiple seconds, not a fraction of second. Keep in mind, this is not a drag-racer, it's a momentum car.
From a start the MX-5 is quicker with a flat torque curve. The 124 has turbo lag & also drops after 6,000 rpms. The MX-5 has a super light clutch feel while the 124 clutch feels like it came from an old pickup truck. Very disappointing on a sports car to have a heavy clutch. Takes the fun right out of it in traffic.
Excellent Review! I dig that reviews because they keep a positive outlook and great attitude.
I am 13 and looking for a car to get when I get a license. What would be a good starter car
I can't wait to see someone do an RF roof swap to this!
That wouldn't be possible without reengineering the entire hard top.
100 pounds more, but I'd still chose it over the miata. Don't get me wrong though, I like the miata too
Id rather buy this, I’m not bringing it to the track, I just want a nice convertible i can cruise along the beach in, and also I largely prefer the classic styling of the spider over the futuristic look of the mazda
@@2023-Sucked Don't ever get into an accident with that car because its discontinued sadly. Parts for repair will be very rare ! Good luck.
@@ag4allgood can’t even buy one now anyway, with the microchip shortage, the price of these things skyrocketed
I still like the speakers in the headrests, the only other car aside from this and the Miata i can find with this is the Pontiac fiero
If anyone sees this should I get the 2017 fiat spider 124 lusso or the 2015 Mercedes-Benz c300 premium?
great work! from argentina!
Thanks!
fiat spider 124 with manual its awesome!
What about space? Trunk and other storage spaces?
Trunk space is a slight bit larger than that of a current Miata.
Trunk space is OK-a tad larger than the MX5, the glove box-now between the seats is very adequate and very deep. There is also a storage compartment behind both seats.
Is the Fiat 124 reliable?
According to hundreds of owner reviews on their website, YES! It's a track-proven engine used in their racing car. Runs like a top!
@@m.goodpickle9609 Oil consumption issues on some 124s. Go to the 124 on line forum . Can be accessed thru Miata.net .
Kelley blue book, is this car suitable for women?
What exact song is this? Cant seem to find it on soundcloud
soundcloud dot com / micahmuzio. It's titled "8 29 13 Polygraph". I know I wrote it but it's one of my favs.
It indeed sounds awesome! Do you mind if I use some of your songs in my videos?
I'm fine with non-commercial use of my songs. Though I appreciate attribution.
where did you get that car t-shirt, it's so cool
Reliability?
No chance lol. It's fiat! Best to get the Miata if your looking at long term ownership.
This one is very reliable, the 1.8 is based on the abrath version, that engine has been for a while without any problems, so the reability is going to be good, the car is made in the same factory in Hiroshima like the Miata and is nearly the same car, just with the fiat engine, so don't worry about the reability! ;)
I would disagree with you on that
+Akil Hodge made by mazda?
From what I've read, the engine is pretty damn reliable and a Mazda Miata is reliable so why wouldn't this be?
Really hope this car will be RELIABLE.
Just need to swap out that FIAT engine
Its reliable, it's made by Mazda in the same factory, Hiroshima but the engine is from the abrath 500, that car has been for a while and seems like this little engine is very reliable and tuneable, there is a chip tune where this car can go up to the 200hp, amazing!
penvon Asking Fiat to make a reliable car is like asking Lotus to build a dump truck
+FutureParadise looking to the reliability index made by those that put their money in it (Warranty Direct), Fiat's engines are more reliable than Mazda's.
I've known Fiat owners that have owned Fiats for years with no issues. I had a 2000 Miata that nearly took me to the poor house. This Spider, according to the hundreds of OWNERS on the owners forum LOVE their Spiders!
Proud owner of a Fiat 124 Classico here. Love love love my car. Only problems: comes with a rear license plate holder that has no instructions on how to install, and she absolutely refuses to go into reverse unless I'm at a dead stop. Otherwise, my Italian girlfriend is a dream...
My Classica has a tendency to want to go back in 3rd rather than 5th, but I think it's still "breaking in". I've read going forward and putting in reverse could damage the linkage or something. I can't put mine back in 1st unless I'm almost stopped, but that hasn't bothered me. I love my spaceship!
I am 6'2 , can i fit well inside it?
you can fit, depends on what your definition of "well" is.
Love the gran turismo music!
In my area this things just don't sell. You can get a base model for about $20K before additional fees. A real shame because they're cool cars.
Wish I could get one in my area for " $ 20 K " ! !
Is there an electric roof ?
Nope. It's the same manual top that's easy to operate with one hand.
Can you also add how much it costs to lease in every car thank you
Leasing rates vary based on a number of factors....
+muratisteinkeks I meant around
crime 5.
pricing: www.fiatusa.com/incentives.html?TR=1&adid=411005424&bid=20604663&buytype=LF&channel=display&cid=0&modelYearCode=CUX201807&pid=211558913&sid=905577
Although in the review it says for more off the line punch, get the manual but ironically, the automatic is faster zero to 60.
Depends who's driving it !
Such a cute car but has a sporty look.
As a current Fiat 124 Spider Classica owner, with over 20,000 fun miles, the only advice I can give is NOT to get an automatic....which are on the resale market 9:1 vs the manual in my area. I have the 6 speed manual and couldn't be happier.....and I' m a previous Miata owner. If you''re too fat or two tall, get a Mercury. Also, I have YET to see a telescoping steering wheel on a car. I do wish peope would stop mentioning that's "missing" on this car.
It would look way better, and closer to the original 124, without that 2nd lower grille. It's not so bad on the Abarth with the chin area blacked out.
Ehi Micah where can we buy your awesome T-shirts?
blipshift dot com. 90% of what covers my torso comes from them.
what is that hissing ..like breathing noise it makes?
karey lester It’s the turbocharger, taking in and releasing air to boost the power output of the engine.
does the Arbath have a turbo?
@@kareybarey13 Oh yes. All the 124s do.
Compared to the mx5, This makes sense if you have a friend called Tony.
You just like perpetuating stereotypes you heard other people say don't you
Way better looking than the Mazda.
Beautiful ❤️❤️❤️😍😍😍
Nice shirt
Thanks v sotdik ka tin
I have one. I can't imagine driving an automatic!
Fiat needs to reboot the X19!!!
I want one of these so bad but I can’t even afford to buy a rusted out ‘92 Toyota Corolla.
I actually think this car is the best looking so far, but does anyone else think this car is a little similar to a fusion?
More like a Maserati Granturismo
I rather get the Miata. Unless they offer a SRT model with the 6.1 Liter motor.
Saw a Hellcat engine jammed into a Miata ( NA ? ) , it left chunks of rubber everywhere plus huge clouds of smoke. Check it out ... do a Google search !
Really nice cars.
now im waiting for the civic hatch
This guy starts out driving an AT, big fail! The AT cars are collecting dust at the local Fiat store.
Except for those with knee issues that a manual kills the deal for. Not to mention, it makes for a really nice deal when you purchase for many as they are getting a good discount due to the AT. I got mine for a DD, and I've gotten tired (not to mention my knees heavily protesting) the constant shifting of manuals over time.
I agree 100%! The traffic around where I live has quadrupled over the last few years and there are far too many red lights! Stop and go traffic is a nightmare when you are driving a straight stick. I loved to shift when I was young, but that was...well, let's just say, a LONG time ago! Thank God for automatics!
I've seen in quite a few reviews that this automatic is pretty damn good. Not to mention that it's faster than the manual at zero to 60. It also has manual control so it's not like it's boring or anything. Sure you have better control with a true manual but it's 2017. Time to stop hating on automatics. They're pretty good units. Also, there are plenty of True car guy / gals that drive automatics...
@@tracyperry6231 I bought the MX-5 Club with a 6 speed manual a joy to drive even in traffic. That 124 clutch was no joy though ... for some reason really felt heavy like it belongs in an old pickup truck.
Needs more displacement and boost
Get a Porsche or an Alpha...spend 2-3x as much. No thanks. My Spider is like a rocket!
love the F 124 . I am just too terrified of FIAT's abysmal reliability from Consumer Reports to buy this car. I hope the model turns out better in time than the 500.
the fiat is built in Japan, right next to the miata. On the same production line, by japanese workers.
I doubt it'll be all that unreliable
cdupright Consumer reports are a bunch of Japanese biased retards I had an Abarth for 4 years not a single problem. My neighbors all drive fiat 500's never having any reliability issues if any sort. Go and buy the car you WONT be disappointed
cdupright Also, any poor reliability scores only came from automatic fiats for some reason, so if you're not a bitch, drive the manual
For a REAL reliability index, look to the ones that PUT THEIR MONEY in it, IE that of Warranty Direct. Current days Fiats are more reliable than WV, and even of some of the Japanese (IE Subaru and Mitsubishi). The general reliability of Fiat is still a little worse than that of Mazda, but, looking to the single parts, their engines (that't the part they put in this car) ARE MORE RELIABLE than those of Mazda.
@@neutronalchemist3241 Your funny ! Turbo's run hotter than Naturally Aspirated engines. They will break quicker ! That Skyactiv 2.0L engine is great with a flat torque curve. Instant throttle response .. . no waiting !
Can someone explain me why fiat has bad reputation in therms of reliable in America?
Because it has been in the us for five or six years with de "500" that is a worldwide reliable car
Beside that, fiat was in the 70's with models that here in Argentina were bulletproof engine vehicles that you still see on the streets
And i dont think that a lot of cars have been sold in those years
Had a 1976 Fiat Years ago , Very Reliable & fun to drive ( Handling )
I think Miata is better with n/a engine
Too each is on. I had a Miata, now I have a Spider. Love it!
The sqeeky wheel gets oil.
모터피디 MotorPD ....yes, but the Spider drives better.
It all depend on your driving style to be honest. Spirited drive = mx5. Cruising and chill = Fiat
Lets compare apples to apples. You can buy two miatas or fiatas for thr price of the Alfa. Entirely different cars....
The 124 has classic vintage Ferrari styling, way better than the Miata and also is faster, quieter, and handles better. This is
a winner and I will go test drive one.
stop comparing the 1970 124 to the 2017. NOTHING in common.
You claim it's 100 heavier than the Miata.
100 what?
turbo = wait for power
I WANT IT!
This fiat better be fucking reliable
i just bought one last night..
Fiat version looks much nicer than the Miata
I’ve sat in both the 124 and Miata. Somehow the 124 has a lot more leg room so I’d choose this one.
The looks. Hmm. They were too scared to move forward.
Nice review, but no mention of engine reliability!? Who cares how fun it is to drive if it's crap under the hood. Styling is MUCH better than Miata. But I'm willing to bet Mazda reliability is far superb. As Fiats have a reputation for being unreliable and in the shop all the time. Do your homework, we need information not just a fluff..
Well, at least the recent(ish) Grande Puntos have been quite reliable. You can see many for sale with almost 300 000 km (186 000 miles) in the meter and still working well.
The 619!
Quite the opposite, the Miata "spawned" from the original Fiat spider. That's providing the term even applies.
Looks like an NB Miata
My Abarth
Hiroshima made Italian car！！
Yea, both built in the same Hiroshima factory. Fiat gets a Mopar windshield & other glass. Also gets some Mazda parts too. Its a combo sandwich !
6'4f can't fit in there, Next!
- .-` i never gonna find myself something i can use
its like Apple taking a lame android and making it good! Congratulations Fiat! You have turned a barbies car into a real mans car!
The other way around. Android (Fiat) is giving the old champion (Miata) a lesson. Today Apple is the one who needs to catch up.
LOL, a Fiat being a "man's car". Yeah right!
+o2i3u5klwerh. More like the Apple users that fall into the "fad" and buy an Apple Product or people buying a Miata because it looks cool. Android being the 124 Spyder which both suffer from a negative image but is actually better.
What can an iPhone do that an Android can't. To me, an
iPhone is prettier looking but not as capable. Maybe when they first came out, they were the phone to have.. but that ended, what, 5-6 years ago?
The most raced car is a barbies car. What does that say about your average dude-bruh car?
I'd be okay paying taxes and insurance on this if it was given to me... Anyone giving one away???
every ounce of that 100 pounds represents a great improvement over the MX5
Lighter is more fun ! Faster ! More athletic ! Plus a much better clutch.
@@ag4allgood Hundred pounds ' cmon man loose some Weight !
@@thenov1944 The 2017 Fiat 124 Abarth model weighs in about 150 pounds more than my 2016 MX-5 Club. I test drove the 2017 124 Abarth with the 6 speed manual after seeing an online RUclips review in March 2017. The local Fiat / Alfa Romeo dealer had one in stock so one nice March day after work I stopped by to test drive that car. White with Black trim Brembo brakes nice wheels looked sharp ! The test drive was a letdown. The clutch had a heavy feel to it. The shifter was notchy hard to find 1st Vs 3rd gear. Turbo had lag so throttle response was delayed. I was in traffic so that heavy clutch was being felt at every stop light. Even the exhaust note was muted unlike a Abarth 500 that pulled in right in front of me that sounded awesome. The next day I test drove a 2016 Mazda MX-5 Club soft top with the Brembo / BBS package in Artic White with Black trim. Same color scheme as the Fiat 124 ! Nice light clutch / throttle response was instant from the naturally aspirated engine. The shifter fell into my hand & the gears were easy to find. What a difference in driving feel over the Fiat !
I made an offer & bought that 2016 MX-5 Club because its drivetrain was so much better than the Fiat 124. I also liked the curves of the MX5 especially from the drivers seat the hood reminds of a Stingray from years before. Now as of 2021 Fiat does not manufacture the 124 Spyder. Consider limited dealerships too ! Also parts will be hard to find. As the car is a peicemeal parts bin put together. The glass is all Mopar branded. The interior has Mazda parts but also the gauges / seats / interior trim is Fiat brand. The engine / suspension / exhaust / body panels are all Fiat parts ! So if you ever get into an accident good luck getting parts to fix it. Also they will be more expensive if you can find them ! Saw the oil change procedure & its a PITA ! Why do you bury an oil filter & turn the bottom side up ? What a mess ! Exclusivity works both ways. NO THANK YOU Fiat !
was this a pininfarina design. If not i dont want anything to do with the car.
So if you didn't like the design and then found out it was from pininfarina, you would like the design but if you did like the design and found out it wasn't from them you would suddenly not like the design?
for the real deal , check out the roadstersalon.com
I wouldn't trust this reviewer regardless of what he said. He is just desciber of what you get. That tells me nothing. I already know the stats. Really?
He expressed some very well educated opinions, other than specs.
What are you talking about?
I would take a Ferrari 488 over this any day!
If you have the money that is!
se7ensnakes apples and oranges!
Me too but I'd sell the Ferrari & get a 2020 MX-5 Club with Brembo brakes / BBS wheels ! Pocket the cash & enjoy life !
the Spider is so much better looking, but I do prefer a non turbo. I would buy the Fiat anyways check out roadstersalon.com
Tony but will you fix it again?