Love the car! I am a little disappointed you failed to mention it has factory Bilstein suspension, strut tower brace, and rear limited slip differential. I'm going to have to zonk you for that...
We have a 2018 Fiat 124 Spyder Red Top Ltd Ed Lusso. We LOVE it. Fun, affordable and cool. It’s awesome, so much fun. My wife uses it as her daily driver. 17,000 miles and no problems. Averaging 36 mpg also. Great car.
My dealer had 2 lusso red tops on the lot...and boy where those pretty. I didn't think a cream interior and dark red top would look good, but I really wanted it. Now the wife and I are contemplating a mare blue lusso with saddle interior.
Yes. The engine has been around, is proven, and can make good power if you want it to. Much of the rest of the car is MX5, so it's safe to say the entire car has many decades of aftermarket support ahead of it.
The mechanical underpinnings are most certainly a Miata, with the engine being an exception. However, Fiat has used this engine in everything, even Chrysler and Dodge have put it in a miriad of vehicles. I don't think finding mechanical parts will be hard if you should need them, however any kind of body work requiring replacement panels will be an absolute nightmare. God forbid you ever need a bumper, fender, hood, quarter panel... you're gonna struggle big time.
That must have been the hardest review you ever had to do with all the older folks in your way haha. Good job being professional with all of them in your way 😂
I have a 2018 124 Abarth. I absolutely love it. Fun fun fun fun fun. Everywhere I go everyone wants to know what it is. Yeah it ain't going to win any races, but it handles great, is a blast to drive, and the trunk can carry a full cart of groceries. My wife loves to drive it too. Oh and I'm 6'1 and I fit easy.
I just got this car and I love it !! Perfect car and great on gas & gets a lot of compliments and looks beautiful! great car for people who want something different and unique! I’m 25 and wanted to be different and not like everyone else & im happy i got it ❤️❤️❤️
daily an abrth for about 4 month for now the more i drive the more i like. it is very interesting as an airline pilot stand point of view. one of the best machine that i ever put my lil butt in.
We have one of these and absolutely love it. It's been two years and it's still special. Love all the FL retirees trying to get into the car.........priceless
I prefer the FIAT styling over the Miata. The Miata was intended as an improved updated version of the classic British roadster. I had a '99 Miata I drove the wheels off of. Literally. Loved it. Other than a few styling tweaks to the original design, I never understood why they made such a radical change through to the present. The last few years design at the rear reminds me of a sad, melted puppy face. The FIAT to me keeps the original intent of a British inspired sportscar design.
@@charlesbolton8471 Oh yeah for sure, loved those. But the original Miata was designed by Americans in SoCal who were inspired by British roadsters, and wanted Japanese quality and reliability. The new FIAT design definitely has the classic 124 as inspiration. The newer Miata styling is atrocious
Dude made a masterpiece out of this video. Haven’t been on UA-cam in a while but usually when I come on to watch some car videos I look for you. Very knowledgeable about cars man love that. Keep up the good work!!! The last part of the video was amazing. Great Content!!!
@@RaitisRides @Raiti's Rides Brand new here and love the presentation style and information provided... You have a new subscriber... Thanks buddy and all the best.. 👍🏼
I test drove the 124 Spider Abarth and the Miata Club Sport back to back on the same day both manuals. To be honest I like the 124 styling better and I felt like the power band on the Abarth made it more fun to floor it from a stop. The only thing that stopped me was the price. No way was I going to pay over $600 a month for that car. Now, I want to pick one up on the used market. Not a bad deal here in Texas you can buy a 2018 Abarth for about $25K.
Also drove both vehicles. The fiat is much slower and kinda left me wondering when it starts to go. About 1.5k from redline. Mazda puts a mapping in that limits performance during the break in period, 600 miles. So it feels about as tame as the fiat. After the break in the throttle is allowed to 100% and the difference is very evident. For 39k however you can get a decked out club or grand touring MX5 with every option you can get. Or for 26k you can get the base package which is still a great option if you don't need tons of fancy stuff or you look to do your own customization. But the recaro seats are worth getting for a stock seat I will say.
It's what's under the hood that made this car the top of my list. Living at altitude the MX5 feels anemic, where the turbo 1.4 in the Abarth works really well up here. Also my god the engine sounds great with the Monza exhaust. The limited slip diff also makes this usable in the winter with appropriate tires.
Thanks for that comment JC. I live and tour in the Rockies which is always a performance issue with NA engines. You generally lose about 25% of the power compared to sea level. Turbo is the way to go up here. My 160hp NA motorcycle takes a big performance hit up here while my twin turbo pickup pulls like a beast.
I had a Miata for 5 years. I had to change the battery once. FIAT cannot be your only car if you really need to get where you are going, no matter what. Had two of them, never again.
Also, Mr. Raiti, I wanted to point out a fact about the antenna. The antenna should be in the highest position so there is no interference with the other body parts of the vehicle. When the top down, the shark fin is ideal but when the top is up, the shark fin will have a large amount of disturbance (hence the bigger antenna).
I agree the grill but overall Miata is prettier (RF version), and doesn’t have those terrible fake vents.. I don’t think I’d ever buy a car with fake vents
the Spider styling with a Miata drivetrain and suspension would be my preference. But if I have to pick between the two, I'm going Miata 100% of the time.
@@RaitisRides Don't forget the MX-5 clutch is much lighter / easier to use. Plus instant throttle response ! When you drive them back to back the clear winner is the MX-5 !
Not really. People have been building race cars out of the Miata and Honda S2K with Turbos or LS engine swaps for years. These cars can be little sleepers.
In the US, the base 124 is 160HP. I have one and it is an absolute pleasure. It’s my daily driver and I’ve had no issues. I get a ton of compliments as well.
I cant tell you how much I appreciate that you speak clearly, concisely and most important quickly! Some UA-camrs hem and haw and drive me right of my mind! I literally want to pull the words out. Great job, glad I found your channel.
The only thing on this car that is FIAT is the engine. Fortunately the 1.4t is a really tough motor. Fiats generally have fit and finish/ electronics issues. Not a problem in this car.
I was in the market for a Fiat 124 Spider Abarth but decided against it. The car was agile and handled wonderfully but it actually wasn't as fun as the Fiat 500 Abarth I previously had. It was a nice car but way over priced and I am not sold on the quality. Great video though Joe especially with everyone around you. :) Way to keep cool.
This video is excellent! The promotion and description of this Fiat 124 Spider Abarth, is very well done.//// I'm planning on buying one now.. . . a silver one. Thank you, Tony. Liked 1.2K and subscribed -Rocco
My partner has had her abarth for 2 years now, sounds great with the record monza exhaust. It was the better car for us compared to mx5, the turbo makes it a much more fun car at civilized street speeds, you can throw it around a corner and accelerate through the turbo midrange punch, so it feels a lot quicker and characterful in real world. Also the abarth chassis spec with bilstein shocks and brembos aren’t available on mx5 here. The manual box on abarth is last gen mx5, but on plus side it also avoided the issues first gen ND mx5 had with the new manual box. Now were in the process of trading it on an i30N fastback for something arguably just as fun but with more room and comfort
Interesting, since the car is no longer sold in Europe. I just sold mine a couple of months ago. If you can get one, don’t hesitate, the quality is on eye level with the MX-5.
Abarth has a history as the racing arm of Fiat. Not as prestigious as an Alfa Romeo. More prestigious and fun than a Fiat. They've been racing since tCarlo Abarth officially started the brand in 1949.
I would get this Fiat 124 Abarth, & a Mazda Miata RF anyday ❤💪. Oh by the way Joe I just configured this 124 Abarth yesterday, it was absolutely gorgeous in the color that I picked also completely spect out 👍. Thanks Joe.
164hp turboed for almost 40k? Go get a naturally aspirated Miata with more power. It's a FIAT... Throwing money down the drain. Nice review Joe, always fun seeing you navigate through people.
@@RaitisRides Responding to hate with grace, commendable. I enjoyed the run down. Very thoroughly and still under 10 minutes. The convention center should have made an exception and allowed the two Abarths to be fired up. Everyone there would have ran to go buy one from the sound alone lol
Wow I just looked it up and says that the 60-0 stopping distance is 121' for the spider and surprises me, because my Challenger SRT8 stops in 110' and is much heavier. It has 4 piston brembos on all 4 corners, and thought that he said the Fiat does as well. So the ones on mine must be more heavy duty or something, because that's the only thing that would make sense. It is a good looking car though and definitely like it much more than the Miata personally
Y'all, before y'all decide which one is better, please drive them. I love the 124, and if it wasn't for the crappy climates in Houston, I would get one
I've driven both, owned an ND, and I'd happily own either of them. The automatic seems to negatively affect the FIAT version more than the Mazda version -- if you are preferential to automatic roadsters, the Mazda one will feel a little more lively. If manual? They are both a riot!
In Dortmund, Germany we have 275 raindays a year. But I enjoy mine anyways. Go and get one. I dont care for temperatures. If it doesnt rain I will drive open. :)
The 2020 MX-5 Miata is now powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0L four-cylinder that generates 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque. That’s an improvement of 26 horsepower and 3 lb-ft. compared to last year’s model. The Fiat 124 Spider Abarth is powered by a turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder with 164 horsepower and 184 lb-ft., I would assume that the Miata is faster.
2019 has that motor at 18q hp and it is much faster than the fiat is. The 2018 was still faster than the fiat. The powerband on the 124 is set much too high where the MX5 starts closer to mid and.
Remarkable composure with all those clueless senior citizens buzzing around you! I'm a senior, too, but I'd have the presence of mind to keep my distance when someone was filming. I loved seeing them trying to get in and out of this low-slung car, and I can say that because I just bought one (Lusso trim, not Abarth) and struggle myself a bit, LOL. But they made me feel young, svelte, and limber by comparison. Noticed some leaves in the trunk sill. Bad prep by the dealer! But I love this vehicle. I drive mine on the Pacific Coast Highway with the top down.
Now - the 124 is just not a MIATA....;-) The ABARTH is totally much more different. The difference are not only mirrors, the seats or some interior details. The missing tools might be the low price ABARTH. Next time take the one with the full options added in Turino. A real Abarth has Brembo braking, Bielstein gear, Monza Record exhaust, LED Lights, Kamera System, Keyless Go and more and more. Might be perfect to drive that car....
I quite like the 124 Spider and the Miata but I do not have a hard-set preference for either (though the classic, more unique looks of the Fiat I do like more ). Whatever happens to be cheaper in the used market, I guess lol. I have a feeling that the 124 is already a used car bargain because of the reputation that Fiat has in the U.S./Canada. I do not know about the reliability of the Fiat MultiJet 1.4 Litre Turbo (I have doubts), but I do appreciate the fact that this engine has a cast iron block and simpler port fuel injection vs the Miata's all-aluminum 2.0L direct fuel injection. I already see 2017 models on Autotrader for less than $16,000 used w/ under 50K miles (80K kilometres), which gives the idea that the 124 Spider's value is going to plummet like a stone compared to the Miata already! It might actually be better to spend extra money for a used Miata ND 2016+ model just for reliability's sake.
The Mazda direct injection causes less carbon buildup than other brands. I add Berryman B-12 Chemtool to the gas tank once or twice a year. If you do a lot of short drives, it is a good idea to go on a long weekend trip once in awhile and drive at 70 mph plus for hours, especially on hot days. I like weekend trips to Gatlinburg or Chattanooga. The Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg have a lot of nice curvy roads after hours of interstate boring straight roads.
take it..if you get one. The last are produced 2018. The Abarth tuning is finsihed in Turino / Italy.... the basics 124 are mounted in Hiroshima / Japan. CHeck the 124 Tribute... only 124 certified cars.
You know what...I said I had all types of new cars, but I've never had a convertible. This might be it:). Love the fact that it's manually convertible...No expensive motor that ends up breaking after a while. I might have to trade my Fiat Abarth for this convertible 124 Fiat Abarth. Nice:)
Its underpowered in comparison to a S2K Honda. All its powerband is around 1.5k from redline; but unlike the S2K, it has no real substance to it. At least the MX5 powerband starts around 3.5k till redline. Even before the 2019 update the MX5 was still quicker with just 155 hp.
Joe, my vote is for the Miata, much more reliable and Mazda will be around in 5 years. Styling on both cars is great, but for my taste I prefer the Mazda. I feel badly that the Fiat reintroduction into the US market was not well received but I think the reality is that they still do not build reliable cars, especially when compared to the Japanese. Fix it again Tony is unfortunately still applicable today.
I dont get where this reliability-thing is coming from. Italian, French and British car manufacturers have a bad reputation from the past. But honestly, the cars nowadays have a good quality. Also the engines. Modern car manufacturers all over the world have similar standards now. The first Mazda MX-5 NDs had also their issues with the gearboxes (the Fiat/Abarth has the more reliable gearbox from the MX-5 NC!), and with the soft top! Its not the fault of the Italians. Also I dont think that Fiat-Chrysler will be gone in 5 years (where is this coming from?). And if so, they will merge into another car company with all the parts.
Fiat 500s are blowing up here and there with a multitude of engine problems. One of the reasons they are getting discontinued in USA. The 124 is also slated for removal unless its sells pick up before 2024. So for a much more expensive, slower, weaker, and less attractive car based on the MX5, MX5 still the winner. Fiat should've just let mazda use their 1.5 engine from other countries and pay them a cut for slapping their badge on it.
this is my exact car the 2020 fiat 124 spider abarth black with the veleno red package. its amazing how much attention and stares this car gets. everywhere i go people ask me what kind of car is at? oh, i put different wheels and tires on. but the stocks were great too!
I had hoped to get an expert's opinion about the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth engine in the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth. But, I guess you haven't test drove the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth. Although I thought you stated you weren't fussy about the engine in the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth . But you never said why you didn't like the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth. But, i do appreciate you going into detail on the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth and the design features of the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth. thanks, (Fiat 124 Spider Abarth)
I've had a ND Miata and a 124 spider. They are very similar and different at the same time. Personally I love the 124, it's so much fun! The Miata definitely has a better more linear engine.
Fake vents are a zonk. But... If it sprints from 0 miles per hour to 60 miles per hour in 5.6 seconds and reaches top speed of up to 150 miles per hour then... wow.
I've been in the market for one of these and was wondering what type of fuel you put in it. I know the owner manual states that the car should receive premium, but can take regular. I think the car has a knock sensor which changes the timing of the ignition caused by the difference in the fuel quality. Still, I would like to eliminate knocking altogether to preserve the engine.
Still have my eye on the 124 Spider. Currently have a 2012 Fiat 500C red top & love it but am looking for something with more open air like this. Just bought the 2020 Fiat 500X trekking plus. That is awesome everywhere
The style is great. Lot's to like about this car. However, Fiat has come and gone before and has always had trouble keeping a strong presence in the USA. lately, we are hearing all kinds of rumors about financial troubles and poor sales. Seems likely that Fiat will pull out of the US market at some point in time. Therefore, I will buy the Mazda. It has a long consistent track record.
I agree the 124 is better looking but I still went for the Miata . Better motor especially with the improvements they made to it for 2019. $39,000 ?!? My Miata was $14,000 cheaper!
@@schwitzpeach4027 how many Fiats did you ever owned? Me, 4. , reliable cars if your care. Fiat has great engines for a long time. That one in 124 spider is just pure smile. I own one.
Am shopping for a mx5 and saw one of these parked at the shopping center, had no idea what it was but it looks beautiful in person. Managed to speak to the owner and turns out he's selling it, go home and find out it's the mx5's distant cousin or something. Awesome, but it's an auto. I need a manual :) Seriously expensive looking car though. They sound nice too.
I test drove a 2017 Fiat 124 Abarth Spyder back in March 2017. I like the style of this Italian roadster & the interior is a little nicer than the MX-5 Miata. Where this car misses is the engine & drive train. That 1.4 L turbo has significant lag. Plus the clutch feels very heavy Vs the MX-5 Miata. I bought a 2016 MX-5 Club with the Brembo / BBS package & could not be happier. I drive my car daily & put snow tires on in the winter. Awesome car ! I'm glad we do have a choice to these affordable roadsters !
I would love to see Mazda and Hyundai partner up after they end the Spyder. Imagine a N version with the Veloster N's setup converted to RWD. Or Honda and bring back the S2K on the ND2 platform with the Type-R motor. Show Toyota how to bring back a Japanese legend.
@@DragonKnightX12 I keep hearing that Mazda is partnering with Toyota when they bring their new in line 6 cylinder engine to reality. I really love the way naturally aspirated engines feel Vs turbo's. Could we see another MR2 as the 124 Spyder replacement to keep the Miata going ? Fiat already pulled the plug on the 124 in the EU.
Love the car! I am a little disappointed you failed to mention it has factory Bilstein suspension, strut tower brace, and rear limited slip differential. I'm going to have to zonk you for that...
lol
We have a 2018 Fiat 124 Spyder Red Top Ltd Ed Lusso. We LOVE it. Fun, affordable and cool. It’s awesome, so much fun. My wife uses it as her daily driver. 17,000 miles and no problems. Averaging 36 mpg also. Great car.
Thanks David for sharing your ownership experience! I am so happy to hear that she is running well.
My dealer had 2 lusso red tops on the lot...and boy where those pretty. I didn't think a cream interior and dark red top would look good, but I really wanted it. Now the wife and I are contemplating a mare blue lusso with saddle interior.
I daily drive an ND Miata and I absolutely love it. That being said, I really dig the looks of the Fiat, too, especially those seats.
Thanks for sharing that input from your experience!
Just bought one. very comfortable seats.
Yes. The engine has been around, is proven, and can make good power if you want it to. Much of the rest of the car is MX5, so it's safe to say the entire car has many decades of aftermarket support ahead of it.
The mechanical underpinnings are most certainly a Miata, with the engine being an exception. However, Fiat has used this engine in everything, even Chrysler and Dodge have put it in a miriad of vehicles. I don't think finding mechanical parts will be hard if you should need them, however any kind of body work requiring replacement panels will be an absolute nightmare. God forbid you ever need a bumper, fender, hood, quarter panel... you're gonna struggle big time.
That must have been the hardest review you ever had to do with all the older folks in your way haha. Good job being professional with all of them in your way 😂
Joe keeping it so cool!
I love the geezers photo-bombing the hell out of this review. I own the classica it has 16" wheels and the fibre seats. Love it.
What a lovely couple.
Careful, Ted, calling people geezers. Biologically speaking, you're only a heart beat away from being one.
They see him filming but they obviously don't give a fk.
@@nomansland4811 I know that's what I said, how freaking rude
Ted Heavy I’m gonna Zonk him.
I have a 2018 124 Abarth. I absolutely love it. Fun fun fun fun fun. Everywhere I go everyone wants to know what it is. Yeah it ain't going to win any races, but it handles great, is a blast to drive, and the trunk can carry a full cart of groceries. My wife loves to drive it too. Oh and I'm 6'1 and I fit easy.
Good to know that!
I just got this car and I love it !! Perfect car and great on gas & gets a lot of compliments and looks beautiful! great car for people who want something different and unique! I’m 25 and wanted to be different and not like everyone else & im happy i got it ❤️❤️❤️
I bought mine at age 25 too. The miata looks more feminine.
The car is definitely a unicorn. There are so few on the road that it is a real head turner.
David Battaglia I actually love that concept 👍🤗 unicorn 🦄 next one will have a unicorn emblem haha 😂 I would so buy that one also
David Battaglia but thanks for the positive feedback !👍
Since when was it a 1.6? It’s a 1.4 turbo
My best friend owns this Abarth and it’s a total blast. The turbo rush is a thrill. It’s a fun toy.
daily an abrth for about 4 month for now the more i drive the more i like. it is very interesting as an airline pilot stand point of view. one of the best machine that i ever put my lil butt in.
We have one of these and absolutely love it. It's been two years and it's still special. Love all the FL retirees trying to get into the car.........priceless
It's not getting in that's priceless...watching people getting out :)
How is it in the rain
Weezy better than my Giulia for sure
I will say, I do like the look of the 124 better than the Miata. If I had 30K to spend, I would love to grab one of these.
Thanks for your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
You can get used ones for 18-20k (a bit more for an Abarth).
I prefer the FIAT styling over the Miata.
The Miata was intended as an improved updated version of the classic British roadster.
I had a '99 Miata I drove the wheels off of. Literally.
Loved it.
Other than a few styling tweaks to the original design, I never understood why they made such a radical change through to the present.
The last few years design at the rear reminds me of a sad, melted puppy face.
The FIAT to me keeps the original intent of a British inspired sportscar design.
It does have the better lines!
VALHALLAXE What about Italian inspired sportscar design? You know like the original Fiat 124 or the Alfa Romeo Spyder.
@@charlesbolton8471
Oh yeah for sure, loved those.
But the original Miata was designed by Americans in SoCal who were inspired by British roadsters, and wanted Japanese quality and reliability.
The new FIAT design definitely has the classic 124 as inspiration.
The newer Miata styling is atrocious
Dude made a masterpiece out of this video. Haven’t been on UA-cam in a while but usually when I come on to watch some car videos I look for you. Very knowledgeable about cars man love that. Keep up the good work!!! The last part of the video was amazing. Great Content!!!
Robbie you are way to kind! I really appreciate you saying that! It means so much to have your great support!
@@RaitisRides
@Raiti's Rides
Brand new here and love the presentation style and information provided...
You have a new subscriber...
Thanks buddy and all the best.. 👍🏼
Dude, this is one of the worst reviews of a 124 on the internet... you gotta be kidding me
I test drove the 124 Spider Abarth and the Miata Club Sport back to back on the same day both manuals. To be honest I like the 124 styling better and I felt like the power band on the Abarth made it more fun to floor it from a stop. The only thing that stopped me was the price. No way was I going to pay over $600 a month for that car. Now, I want to pick one up on the used market. Not a bad deal here in Texas you can buy a 2018 Abarth for about $25K.
Also drove both vehicles. The fiat is much slower and kinda left me wondering when it starts to go. About 1.5k from redline.
Mazda puts a mapping in that limits performance during the break in period, 600 miles. So it feels about as tame as the fiat. After the break in the throttle is allowed to 100% and the difference is very evident.
For 39k however you can get a decked out club or grand touring MX5 with every option you can get. Or for 26k you can get the base package which is still a great option if you don't need tons of fancy stuff or you look to do your own customization. But the recaro seats are worth getting for a stock seat I will say.
It's what's under the hood that made this car the top of my list. Living at altitude the MX5 feels anemic, where the turbo 1.4 in the Abarth works really well up here. Also my god the engine sounds great with the Monza exhaust. The limited slip diff also makes this usable in the winter with appropriate tires.
Thanks for that comment JC. I live and tour in the Rockies which is always a performance issue with NA engines. You generally lose about 25% of the power compared to sea level. Turbo is the way to go up here. My 160hp NA motorcycle takes a big performance hit up here while my twin turbo pickup pulls like a beast.
I had a Miata for 5 years. I had to change the battery once.
FIAT cannot be your only car if you really need to get where you are going, no matter what.
Had two of them, never again.
Thanks for sharing your input on this one!
“Italian sister to the Mazda Miata” oo..I like that
Miata wearing an Italian tailored suit! I have one and love it, no issues. Lot's of smiles and looks
Also, Mr. Raiti, I wanted to point out a fact about the antenna. The antenna should be in the highest position so there is no interference with the other body parts of the vehicle. When the top down, the shark fin is ideal but when the top is up, the shark fin will have a large amount of disturbance (hence the bigger antenna).
I like the shape of the grill and headlights more than the miata
I totally agree with you! It really has some style!
I agree the grill but overall Miata is prettier (RF version), and doesn’t have those terrible fake vents.. I don’t think I’d ever buy a car with fake vents
Almost 150K.... amazing and exciting, ....you deserve the success, and soon, ... one million subscribers
Marty Allan thanks for saying that! It is so great to share this journey with you!😎👍🏻
the Spider styling with a Miata drivetrain and suspension would be my preference. But if I have to pick between the two, I'm going Miata 100% of the time.
I am right there with you!
Love the content! Love all the Florida seniors walking around.
Future video: full 124 spider abarth review with test drive?
Thanks Samuel! I am working on getting into a Fiat dealership so please stay tuned.
Looks much better then Mazda.
Looks good but I like the engine in the Mazda better.
@@RaitisRides Don't forget the MX-5 clutch is much lighter / easier to use. Plus instant throttle response ! When you drive them back to back the clear winner is the MX-5 !
Very interesting car, Joe. Thanks for bringing it to us.
Jowurel of course! Really appreciate it!
Or get the ,,normal" 124. It starts at 20k and is lot of fun too. 140 hp on a bit over one ton... is also a lot.
That is a very good point!
Not really. People have been building race cars out of the Miata and Honda S2K with Turbos or LS engine swaps for years.
These cars can be little sleepers.
In the US, the base 124 is 160HP. I have one and it is an absolute pleasure. It’s my daily driver and I’ve had no issues. I get a ton of compliments as well.
@@gerardleary1885 124:a class of its own for happy people flying high over the depressed Shepherd,
I cant tell you how much I appreciate that you speak clearly, concisely and most important quickly! Some UA-camrs hem and haw and drive me right of my mind! I literally want to pull the words out. Great job, glad I found your channel.
The only thing on this car that is FIAT is the engine. Fortunately the 1.4t is a really tough motor. Fiats generally have fit and finish/ electronics issues. Not a problem in this car.
Thanks for sharing that great input and perspective Douglas!
I was in the market for a Fiat 124 Spider Abarth but decided against it. The car was agile and handled wonderfully but it actually wasn't as fun as the Fiat 500 Abarth I previously had. It was a nice car but way over priced and I am not sold on the quality. Great video though Joe especially with everyone around you. :) Way to keep cool.
Love all Fiats, have done for many years. Great review Joe. Thank you.
Commenting for the algorithm.
And I love this car.
Damn those pop up tablets on the dash are already looking very dated.
This video is excellent! The promotion and description of this Fiat 124 Spider Abarth, is very well done.////
I'm planning on buying one now.. . . a silver one. Thank you, Tony. Liked 1.2K and subscribed -Rocco
@7:03 this is where I'll stash my "love beads!" And sweet stinky weed! ha/// This car is way cool!
My husband just bought a silver one. FIAT means faith. Went for a ride...really nice car.
My partner has had her abarth for 2 years now, sounds great with the record monza exhaust. It was the better car for us compared to mx5, the turbo makes it a much more fun car at civilized street speeds, you can throw it around a corner and accelerate through the turbo midrange punch, so it feels a lot quicker and characterful in real world. Also the abarth chassis spec with bilstein shocks and brembos aren’t available on mx5 here. The manual box on abarth is last gen mx5, but on plus side it also avoided the issues first gen ND mx5 had with the new manual box. Now were in the process of trading it on an i30N fastback for something arguably just as fun but with more room and comfort
Thanks for sharing those awesome thoughts! I would love to drive an i30N
I like the rear antenna because it looks retro. The shark fin is fine for the Miata’s contemporary styling.
Looks wayyyyyy nicer than the mazda
I totally agree with you!
Agree !!!
AEOU VLOGS great minds!
Interesting, since the car is no longer sold in Europe.
I just sold mine a couple of months ago.
If you can get one, don’t hesitate, the quality is on eye level with the MX-5.
Two years with our Abarth. They had me at the red tachometer.
Depends what type you get. The Monza Edition is around 1k more but has a more aggressive look and sound to it
Def gonna but one of these. My 500 abarth was so much fun. I always wanted a s2000 so this will be right up my alley.
Very good input!
Abarth has a history as the racing arm of Fiat. Not as prestigious as an Alfa Romeo. More prestigious and fun than a Fiat. They've been racing since tCarlo Abarth officially started the brand in 1949.
This is very true!
I would get this Fiat 124 Abarth, & a Mazda Miata RF anyday ❤💪. Oh by the way Joe I just configured this 124 Abarth yesterday, it was absolutely gorgeous in the color that I picked also completely spect out 👍. Thanks Joe.
That would be a fun garage setup!
@@RaitisRides Yeah Joe for real 🤗
164hp turboed for almost 40k? Go get a naturally aspirated Miata with more power. It's a FIAT... Throwing money down the drain. Nice review Joe, always fun seeing you navigate through people.
I have the Miata and you can not let the top up or down at 30 mph, the wind will catch it. Trust me< I have tried it.
10 minutes of someone stating the obvious. Look at these fenders, the go all the way from the bumper cover to the doors. I love how fiat did that.
Thank you for sharing your input and perspective! I appreciate you watching!
@@RaitisRides Responding to hate with grace, commendable. I enjoyed the run down. Very thoroughly and still under 10 minutes. The convention center should have made an exception and allowed the two Abarths to be fired up. Everyone there would have ran to go buy one from the sound alone lol
Getting more red in the front of mine with the black around the headlamps. Red fin. Recommend getting clear bra if you matte paint and ceramic paint.
Thanks for sharing that great info.
I have yet to see this guy make a negative comment about a car. This is like the feel-good car channel.
Have you heard me use the term "ZONK?"
Wow I just looked it up and says that the 60-0 stopping distance is 121' for the spider and surprises me, because my Challenger SRT8 stops in 110' and is much heavier. It has 4 piston brembos on all 4 corners, and thought that he said the Fiat does as well. So the ones on mine must be more heavy duty or something, because that's the only thing that would make sense. It is a good looking car though and definitely like it much more than the Miata personally
Thanks for sharing that great input!
Bought my 124 Spider Abarth Manual transmission last month.
Plan on upgrading to a larger turbo.
Y'all, before y'all decide which one is better, please drive them. I love the 124, and if it wasn't for the crappy climates in Houston, I would get one
That is a very good point!
Savan Cleveland lol blackman
I'm in TN and drive it in snow/rain. Performs like any other car so no worries.
I've driven both, owned an ND, and I'd happily own either of them. The automatic seems to negatively affect the FIAT version more than the Mazda version -- if you are preferential to automatic roadsters, the Mazda one will feel a little more lively. If manual? They are both a riot!
In Dortmund, Germany we have 275 raindays a year. But I enjoy mine anyways. Go and get one. I dont care for temperatures. If it doesnt rain I will drive open. :)
The 2020 MX-5 Miata is now powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0L four-cylinder that generates 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque. That’s an improvement of 26 horsepower and 3 lb-ft. compared to last year’s model. The Fiat 124 Spider Abarth is powered by a turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder with 164 horsepower and 184 lb-ft., I would assume that the Miata is faster.
2019 has that motor at 18q hp and it is much faster than the fiat is. The 2018 was still faster than the fiat. The powerband on the 124 is set much too high where the MX5 starts closer to mid and.
Remarkable composure with all those clueless senior citizens buzzing around you! I'm a senior, too, but I'd have the presence of mind to keep my distance when someone was filming. I loved seeing them trying to get in and out of this low-slung car, and I can say that because I just bought one (Lusso trim, not Abarth) and struggle myself a bit, LOL. But they made me feel young, svelte, and limber by comparison. Noticed some leaves in the trunk sill. Bad prep by the dealer! But I love this vehicle. I drive mine on the Pacific Coast Highway with the top down.
He has absolutely no more right to that car than they do. Stop being a dumbass.
I think the 124 is better looking than the new Miata. I have a 2006 mx5 that I think is also better looking than the newest version.
Thanks for your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
Now - the 124 is just not a MIATA....;-) The ABARTH is totally much more different. The difference are not only mirrors, the seats or some interior details. The missing tools might be the low price ABARTH. Next time take the one with the full options added in Turino. A real Abarth has Brembo braking, Bielstein gear, Monza Record exhaust, LED Lights, Kamera System, Keyless Go and more and more. Might be perfect to drive that car....
I quite like the 124 Spider and the Miata but I do not have a hard-set preference for either (though the classic, more unique looks of the Fiat I do like more ). Whatever happens to be cheaper in the used market, I guess lol. I have a feeling that the 124 is already a used car bargain because of the reputation that Fiat has in the U.S./Canada. I do not know about the reliability of the Fiat MultiJet 1.4 Litre Turbo (I have doubts), but I do appreciate the fact that this engine has a cast iron block and simpler port fuel injection vs the Miata's all-aluminum 2.0L direct fuel injection. I already see 2017 models on Autotrader for less than $16,000 used w/ under 50K miles (80K kilometres), which gives the idea that the 124 Spider's value is going to plummet like a stone compared to the Miata already! It might actually be better to spend extra money for a used Miata ND 2016+ model just for reliability's sake.
The Mazda direct injection causes less carbon buildup than other brands. I add Berryman B-12 Chemtool to the gas tank once or twice a year. If you do a lot of short drives, it is a good idea to go on a long weekend trip once in awhile and drive at 70 mph plus for hours, especially on hot days. I like weekend trips to Gatlinburg or Chattanooga. The Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg have a lot of nice curvy roads after hours of interstate boring straight roads.
take it..if you get one. The last are produced 2018. The Abarth tuning is finsihed in Turino / Italy.... the basics 124 are mounted in Hiroshima / Japan. CHeck the 124 Tribute... only 124 certified cars.
Thanks for sharing that info!
@@RaitisRides Just check.... ua-cam.com/video/QV1VcuhsVHI/v-deo.html
You know what...I said I had all types of new cars, but I've never had a convertible. This might be it:). Love the fact that it's manually convertible...No expensive motor that ends up breaking after a while. I might have to trade my Fiat Abarth for this convertible 124 Fiat Abarth. Nice:)
I am so glad that you liked this one.
From an aestethic point of view I would go for the Fiat
i totally agree with you!
doesn't miata have 181hp and naturally aspirated? how is this under powered with a turbo?
Talk to FCA! LOL The Miata uses a 2.0L inline-4
The Fiat does have 33 more lb-ft of torque though. Still, i'd Miata and add a Turbo for around 250 hp
Its underpowered in comparison to a S2K Honda. All its powerband is around 1.5k from redline; but unlike the S2K, it has no real substance to it. At least the MX5 powerband starts around 3.5k till redline. Even before the 2019 update the MX5 was still quicker with just 155 hp.
This would have been a huge success if it had come with a v6 with about 250 to 300hp
I like the way you think.
Joe, my vote is for the Miata, much more reliable and Mazda will be around in 5 years. Styling on both cars is great, but for my taste I prefer the Mazda. I feel badly that the Fiat reintroduction into the US market was not well received but I think the reality is that they still do not build reliable cars, especially when compared to the Japanese. Fix it again Tony is unfortunately still applicable today.
I totally agree with you Tony!
I dont get where this reliability-thing is coming from. Italian, French and British car manufacturers have a bad reputation from the past. But honestly, the cars nowadays have a good quality. Also the engines. Modern car manufacturers all over the world have similar standards now. The first Mazda MX-5 NDs had also their issues with the gearboxes (the Fiat/Abarth has the more reliable gearbox from the MX-5 NC!), and with the soft top! Its not the fault of the Italians. Also I dont think that Fiat-Chrysler will be gone in 5 years (where is this coming from?). And if so, they will merge into another car company with all the parts.
Fiat 500s are blowing up here and there with a multitude of engine problems. One of the reasons they are getting discontinued in USA. The 124 is also slated for removal unless its sells pick up before 2024. So for a much more expensive, slower, weaker, and less attractive car based on the MX5, MX5 still the winner. Fiat should've just let mazda use their 1.5 engine from other countries and pay them a cut for slapping their badge on it.
Cheers for the vid Raiti. I'm going to buy one or the other soon and I've tested both. What makes you favour the Mazda over the Fiat??
this is my exact car the 2020 fiat 124 spider abarth black with the veleno red package. its amazing how much attention and stares this car gets. everywhere i go people ask me what kind of car is at? oh, i put different wheels and tires on. but the stocks were great too!
Beautiful and very reliable car. Fun to drive. Fast.
I love these reviews from SEMA. Only downside is the brightness from the camera is really low. Hard to see the gages and inside of the vehicles.
I can't take someone seriously when they wear such a huge quartz watch
Very cool. Thanks for the walk-through. Great video.
I really appreciate you saying that Rob!
I had hoped to get an expert's opinion about the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth engine in the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth. But, I guess you haven't test drove the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth.
Although I thought you stated you weren't fussy about the engine in the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth . But you never said why you didn't like the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth.
But, i do appreciate you going into detail on the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth and the design features of the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth.
thanks, (Fiat 124 Spider Abarth)
Thanks for your input and perspective. I really appreciate you watching!
I've had a ND Miata and a 124 spider. They are very similar and different at the same time. Personally I love the 124, it's so much fun! The Miata definitely has a better more linear engine.
Apparently this attracts old farts. But honestly I like how distinct and more classic this looks over the miata.
THorne H nah too many fake vents.. lost me there.. the Miata RF is sexier
Fake vents are a zonk.
But...
If it sprints from 0 miles per hour to 60 miles per hour in 5.6 seconds and reaches top speed of up to 150 miles per hour then... wow.
No fake vents, please.
Bro forget one thing
2 big storage behind seats
Notice it
Big is a relative term (I own an ND).
I've been in the market for one of these and was wondering what type of fuel you put in it. I know the owner manual states that the car should receive premium, but can take regular. I think the car has a knock sensor which changes the timing of the ignition caused by the difference in the fuel quality. Still, I would like to eliminate knocking altogether to preserve the engine.
These cars are solid. It isn't the 70s anymore.
Thanks for the heads up Paul.
It’s too bad they couldn’t make the hood emblem bigger
Of course it’s worth it. It’s a Miata with a transmission that won’t blow up like the Miata will.
Still have my eye on the 124 Spider. Currently have a 2012 Fiat 500C red top & love it but am looking for something with more open air like this. Just bought the 2020 Fiat 500X trekking plus. That is awesome everywhere
$39k???!!! Uh no.
Thanks for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
Good call!
2019 Abarth’s for 26k in my area, very little miles not a bad choice!
you can get a 2017 for around 20k, really hasn’t changed
Great review thank you.
You are so very welcome! Thanks for letting me share it with you!
Mhmmmmmm... I'd get the Miata XD
Love the vid, Joe!
And man, I need to go to an auto-show someday
Thanks for letting me bring the auto show to you! I would go Miata as well even though I like the looks of this 124.
39k?!?!! Are they smokin crack? Lol I believe the Miata RF tops out at like 36k lol
I totally agree with you!
3k is the make or break for you? It has the name "Fiat" on it....
Actually the RF can go up to 38k or so with the GT-S package
You can talk the dealers down a decent amount lol
Daniel it’s still a better deal than the Fiat.
What happened to the promised engine comparison? He said he didn’t like the Fiat vs Miata engine but never said why.
The fact that “ Fiat” put the spider under their brand instead of “Alpha Romeo” shows they are terrible at marketing .
Fiat makes just as good a car as anybody else plus the European styling and field I would take the 124 any day
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one George!
The style is great. Lot's to like about this car. However, Fiat has come and gone before and has always had trouble keeping a strong presence in the USA. lately, we are hearing all kinds of rumors about financial troubles and poor sales. Seems likely that Fiat will pull out of the US market at some point in time. Therefore, I will buy the Mazda. It has a long consistent track record.
Mr. Raiti OMG From History At Ridgewood!
Yes sir! It has been a while!
I agree the 124 is better looking but I still went for the Miata . Better motor especially with the improvements they made to it for 2019. $39,000 ?!? My Miata was $14,000 cheaper!
The FIAT was OK but its got the FIAT power plant and thats not as a reliable lump as the MAZDA unit
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one.
Plus the Miata is faster now because of the revised 2.0 for the ND2.
The Abarth has more torque, but also turbo lag.
Another video keep doing what you are doing raiti
Thanks Hannah for your awesome support!
this is a great car...finally in the last 12 years fiat is making really good cars...its about time
my is 124 spyder classic 2018 over 67000 thousand miles no problems!
Thanks for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate it!
Thanks for sharing your ownership input.
I own one. More fun than the corvette I previously owned.
Thanks for sharing that great ownership experience!
I have one in the UK and love it. Unfortunately fiat are no longer selling them here due to emissions
It is a fun car! That is terrible they don't sell them anymore!
they are no longer selling them coz nobody has ever bought the junk.
Love my 2018 Abarth 124 Spider 6 speed manual
The fist looks alot better then the Miata
I thought they stopped making them a year ago!
Me too
No fender gap?!
Mark Wadsworth no longer produced for the UK market
no longer produced in aus either
Have they stopped production of this car?
2020 is the final year!
Oh no!
Which risk? I do not understand... its Mazda with a very good engine.
The engine is made in Italy shipped to Japan and assembled by Mazda. The risk is that the reliability with the parts made in Italy by Fiat.
@@schwitzpeach4027 how many Fiats did you ever owned? Me, 4. , reliable cars if your care. Fiat has great engines for a long time. That one in 124 spider is just pure smile. I own one.
Who designed that trunk lid? Why does it not open all the way down to the bumper like most cars?
That is a great point!
Am shopping for a mx5 and saw one of these parked at the shopping center, had no idea what it was but it looks beautiful in person. Managed to speak to the owner and turns out he's selling it, go home and find out it's the mx5's distant cousin or something. Awesome, but it's an auto. I need a manual :)
Seriously expensive looking car though. They sound nice too.
I test drove a 2017 Fiat 124 Abarth Spyder back in March 2017. I like the style of this Italian roadster & the interior is a little nicer than the MX-5 Miata. Where this car misses is the engine & drive train. That 1.4 L turbo has significant lag. Plus the clutch feels very heavy Vs the MX-5 Miata. I bought a 2016 MX-5 Club with the Brembo / BBS package & could not be happier. I drive my car daily & put snow tires on in the winter. Awesome car ! I'm glad we do have a choice to these affordable roadsters !
I would love to see Mazda and Hyundai partner up after they end the Spyder.
Imagine a N version with the Veloster N's setup converted to RWD.
Or Honda and bring back the S2K on the ND2 platform with the Type-R motor. Show Toyota how to bring back a Japanese legend.
@@DragonKnightX12 I keep hearing that Mazda is partnering with Toyota when they bring their new in line 6 cylinder engine to reality. I really love the way naturally aspirated engines feel Vs turbo's. Could we see another MR2 as the 124 Spyder replacement to keep the Miata going ? Fiat already pulled the plug on the 124 in the EU.