Fiat 124 Spider review (2016-2019)

While there are plenty of differences between the 124 Spider and MX-5 on the outside and under the bonnet, it's a particularly tricky game of spot the difference inside.  

In truth, the cars share almost identical interiors, barring the badges on the steering wheels.

What does that mean?

Well, in truth, a relatively plain-looking cockpit, but one that’s very functional and therefore hard to fault.

Driving position

It’s comfortable, everything feels of a good quality and the leather steering wheel is, quite literally, a nice touch. 

For drivers who like to go topless in the winter, the heater vents are aimed perfectly at the steering wheel to keep your fingers warm. Smart. 

As for space, well, you won’t be shocked to learn that it’s not exactly huge once you park your backside within the confines of the Spider.

Larger drivers and passengers could well feel less like they’re sitting in a car and more like they’re wearing a metal jacket.

That said, all but the most unusually tall will still fit in with relative ease thanks to the adjustability on offer. 

Tech and features

For ease, the Fiat 124 keeps the Mazda MX-5’s infotainment system, which is no major cause for complaint.

It’s well-placed, easy to use and has everything you’d expect to find. 

Opt for the ‘Lusso Plus’ upgrade and you’ll enjoy a higher spec, crisper and all-around upgraded Bose stereo.

There’s a lightness to this diminutive convertible that you mightn’t expect if you’ve ever been in an MX-5.

This mostly comes from its subtle differences.  

Engines and power

Most significantly, the Fiat uses a turbocharged 1.4-litre engine with a distinctive character and gruff note, providing lots of low-down thrust to make the most of the playful rear-wheel drive base.

The Fiat is deliberately less focused than its Mazda sibling, feeling more accustomed to top-down touring than a scruff-of-the-neck thrashing. It, therefore, suits a different type of convertible driver. 

Thanks to its compact footprint and decent visibility, the 124 Spider is easy to drive in town, and thanks to the engine’s supply of 160hp in a 1.1-tonne car, it makes mincemeat of motorway work. 

As you may well expect, there’s not enough room to swing a cat in a 124 Spider.

In fact, there’s barely enough room to swing a spider.

Boot space

The boot is more of a slipper too, though it’s large enough to fit a large suitcase or a couple of weekend bags.

Just don’t attempt to fit a week’s worth of family shopping inside.  

Storage solutions

Despite the limited space inside, there are a couple of nice and quite unique storage solutions. 

Especially useful are the moveable cupholders, which can slot into two different locations.  

The most pleasing cubby hole is the storage unit that sits snugly between the two seats.

It’s lockable, providing some security, even if you leave the car parked with the roof down. 

One other aspect worth mentioning is the manually retractable roof. 

No electric option is available, but the fabric top is super easy to use, with just one central clamp to release/lock and a simple retraction motion. 

With no electronic parts, it saves weight and – key if you plan to keep your car long term – means there’s less to go wrong. 

The Italian cabrio and style are alluring. It’s what will likely draw potential buyers to the Fiat 124 Spider, after all. 

Reliability

It’s the practical, stoic and reliable car underneath that keeps owners happy. 

MX-5s have long had a reputation for being surprisingly hardy, seemingly at odds with their flamboyance.

The 124 benefits from this, given its similarity. So do any drivers who take the plunge and invest in one of these cracking little cars. 

Fuel economy

As for running costs, it’s a mixed picture. Expect between 35 and 40 miles per gallon. That’s not half bad for a sports car, of course.

Though if fuel economy is high on your list of priorities, the MX-5 and its non-turbocharged engines are slightly more frugal.