When the Japanese Mazda nailed it with their MX-5 Miata, it opened another new horizon on the western shore. The Italian Fiat was so impressed with the accuracy and efficiency of Miata’s design that they adapted Miata’s design for their upcoming sports convertible coupe, the 2017 model of 124 Spider. Actually, Fiat commissioned Mazda to develop the top-down for them.
Appearance
The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider bears great semblance with Miata and it is the exterior we are talking about. However, some details were modified to suit the taste of the posh Italian clientele. Gone were the sexy curves, sharp features and functional details of the base. Instead, Fiat chose to don it with snazzy sheetmetal just like the previous 124 Spider.
Miata and Fiat shares the same 90.9-inch wheelbase but the Italian is longer by 5.5 inches longer in overall length. As for the foldable roof, Fiat still insisted having the same manual folding method that Miata uses. Enough for the automatic “everything” for the rich crowd, eh?
Interior
If you are expecting that 124 Spider would at least accommodate a different interior, then we’re sorry to let you down. Its interior was polished Miata-style down to the HVAC system control knobs, window switches and the UConnect-less infotainment system. However, the cabin is roomier to humor the larger drivers.
Powertrain
Fiat has not yet released much info about the specs except for the 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that can generate 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Transmission may be a 6-speed manual or automatic, making the package an authentic Italian roadster.
Release
Details about the pricing are yet to be decided by the company but 124 Spider will be ready by the summer of 2016. Since ‘124’ is quite a significant number, Fiat will be offering limited-edition prima Edizione Lusso trim with customized number-badges and Azzurro Italia paint (simply translated as ‘blue’).
- Category : Sports Coupes and Convertibles
- Engine : 1.4L turbocharged, inline-4
- Transmission : 6-speed manual or automatic
- Power : 160hp
- Torque : 184 lb.-ft.
- Price : (to be decided)
- Release : Summer of 2016
