Fiat 124 Spider Classica Review: Marvellous Mash Up Or a Motorised Mongrel?

[@Josh-er6oz]

I happen to think it looks brilliant, purposeful and a lot more interesting than the mx5

[@yankee2yankee216]

I would choose the Fiat over a ND Miata... I think. That car is growing on me as well!

[@mpreza98]

Agreed. I knew the ND was a great car. I couldn't get past those looks though. Got a used Abarth 124 off lease w/6000 miles. Best drivers car I've owned.

[@paulyakaitis3352]

I always get compliments on mine!

[@rebirthofthecool5619]

If you think a fiat make good looking cars 😂 and vauxhall and Dacia 😂😂😂

[@TeamZSsx]

Criticizing the cars styling when your wearing that shirt needs some brass balls 😉

[@chriscushing1275]

Um, that shirt is the height of fashion, heathen.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Damn right Chris

[@MrKeyboardCommando]

Cletus does have brass balls, they're just not on his shirt‼️

[@julioblanco]

@@MrKeyboardCommando weird how you would know that...🤤😒

[@fasthracing]

Funny!

[@Gentleman...Driver]

Around 2009 I heard the first time from the project. Back in the day it was flagged as the new Alfa Romeo Spider. They wanted to restart the brand and it made perfect sense to me. They also announced a cooperation with Mazda to built the Spider and the new Miata. One year later Pininfarina presented his magnificient study "Duettottanta" on the Genevan Auto show. Everyone was stunned. If they are going to build this, this would definitely carry the brand. But then... the infighting began. Lets say engineers and middle management of Alfa Romeo and Maserati werent pleased that their new "halo" car was going to be developed and build outside the company by Mazda. They stated an Alfa Rome must come from Italy. Also it would have compromised their own project, the Alfa Romeo 4C. And as they read the specs of the Alfa Spider, they demanded that it should "distinguish" itself from the 4C. That ment that they didnt want to share the 1.8 Turbo engine... Here are the specs of the Alfa 4C: - RWD - Rear mounted midengine layout - 250 hp / around 1,000 kg Here the specs of the Abarth 124 Spider - RWD - front mounted midengine layout (like the Corvette) - 170 hp / around 1,150 kg So you can only imagine what an Alfa Spider with the 1.8 litre engine would have ment for the much more expensive 4C... This was not going to happen. So Marchionne announced that "Alfa customers" wouldnt accept a 4 cylinder engine in an Alfa. lol. But then they gave us the 4C... In fact, a worthy Spider successor was awaited from fans all around the world for decades. The project was dead by this point. BUT they had already closed contracts with Mazda, so they had to do something. And then they relabled the car as the Fiat/Abarth 124 Spider. They throwed the 1.4 litre (advanced) MultiAir insight and called it a day. The car then sold very bad because of the following points: A) No advertising at all, just a little bit of youtube. NOBODY knows what my car is. Even if they read "Abarth", they dont know the brand. This is from a marketing perspective a worst case scenario. They have had no budget to advertise the car. This is madness. But Marchionne was a numbers guy, and didnt thrust on advertising, so he cancelled their budget (also he cancelled R&D, but this is another story). B) The pricing was ridiculous. It came to my mind they did the calculations with the 1.8 litre engine, and then relabeled the car, put in a smaller engine, but the pricing was the same... Here in Germany the Abarth version sold for 43,000 EUR (including tax) in the first years. Nobody is going to spend so much money on a Fiat/Abarth with 170hp. "Slow" sports cars are a niche, and the majority of people wont get the concept of this. They expect a sports car has to be faster and more expensive then anything else. People are literally upset and disappointed when I tell them that my car has 170hp. I came in when the prices dropped, because nobody bought then. In 2019 I got my Abarth for 26,000 EUR including tax. And thats a fair price for the performance. C) 3 of 4 FCA dealerships did disapoint me. They failed completly. Nobody was motivated to sell a car. Nobody knows the 124 Spider and the features of it. Hell, one workshop manager insisted to me that the car was front wheel drive, until I made a donut on the parking lot. lol. Simply, the dealership network is not prepared for Alfa Romeo/Abarth customers who are more demanding. D) Fiat has not a good reputation. They stand for unreliability. This is in my opinion not true, the cars are good. However, the dealerships and their workshops are very, very bad. Again, this is a marketing disaster. And instead of doing something about it, like giving more free warranty, they are just ignoring the problems. The car is great tho. I mean its mostly a Miata. The turbo engine is... meh... I dont like it as much, but it behaves quite well in the Abarth in sports mode. Car had some issues, but really those are mostly Mazda parts that are breaking, like the roof. Every car has its issues. Even factory new Porsches. So overall, I am a happy owner of an Abarth 124. Its a good car. It could be better of course. But we cant have everything in reality.

[@jorgeesgueira5325]

Interesting to know the cars history and internal politics at the company. Thanks very much!

[@Gentleman...Driver]

@@jorgeesgueira5325 Cheers, mate.

[@mleb5856]

would you recommend the classica? it's starting to drop to 12k in my area

[@Gentleman...Driver]

@@mleb5856 The normal Fiat 124 Spider has no limited slip diff. And yes, that makes the difference for me. At least for a sportscar. But you can retrofit one anytime. They cost probably around 2k? They are also not holding the value as much as the Abarth version. BUT at this point I cant recommend ANY Stellantis product (Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Fiat, Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Peugeot, Citroen, Opel). They have HUGE problems. Sparepart delivery takes them forever, especially for such a rare car. The car is better as the reputation, but the dealerships and the logistics of Stellantis are just aweful and a real dealbreaker for me.

[@vladimirart758]

@@mleb5856ehere r from ?

[@mojomeil]

I have the Abarth version and every drive in it is a treat. Always makes me smile.

[@mtheprof48]

I have the classica US version and it is sweet. And the US version will rev.

[@nelsonperez1577]

Same here!! I love my Abarth

[@ChuckleDrums]

Thanks again for doing this video. I had a lot of fun and I'm glad you enjoyed the car :)

[@BRMRailway]

If you are short, yes, tall no. I had one of these for two years. A Blue Lusso Plus (so it had got those chrome tips and 17" wheels). I absolutely loved the drive, and liked the engine. It was a lot of fun. But I found I was just too tall and the seats (recovered Mazda) too poor, and I was getting out cramped and hurting after an hour. So gave it up. Absolutely gutted, I loved the car, but at 6ft4 just could not live with it any longer. Bought a 718 boxster, which I can fit in, and is superb, but I would argue no more fun than this little thing was.

[@mtheprof48]

Yeah,I’m 6 ft 2 and that’s probably the max comfortable height.

[@skwaab]

I remember being floored by the styling of this car when it first came out. Having always been picky and especially recently, dissatisfied with modern car design, this was a nice change to see.

[@EnfieldNo4]

Very fair review. I’ve had my Abarth 124 since new and honestly it’s the most fun I’ve had on four wheels. I don’t think I will ever part with it. I’m glad you had a change of heart. Perhaps you should give the Abarth a whirl sometime? Thanks for the channel.

[@josephcampese5347]

@JayEmm on Cars...Not that it was incongruent with the rest of your review, but. The boldness of your honesty from the 15:00 to 16:00 minute mark, floored me. The orthodoxy some in the roadster/sports car community display most of time, I find to be enormously annoying. Thanx, you earned a thumbs up and a subscriber.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thankyou for subscribing

[@lanmastersassistant659]

Got a soft spot for these cars, I'm definitely gonna keep my eyes open for one in future

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

I see what you did there.. :)

[@casualagent7250]

Maybe a better idea than an old MGTF..

[@tristanseume]

As an owner of a 124 Spider I can report that it's a really nice thing. Not perfect - I'll admit the MX-5 engine is more fun and free - but I like that you just don't see many on the roads. It does turn heads and it's a conversation-starter. I like it (I'll probably get an MX-5 eventually though!).

[@ungurdani8346]

PLS SUBSCRIBE I AM PIANIST

[@carlickio]

It's great that you've posted this video as I've been looking at getting one of these recently! You've hit the nail on the head with this. If you're looking for a new, reliable, affordable and most importantly, fun convertible, there really is very limited choice on the market today, and these are possibly the best buy out there. Yes the MX5 is an obvious option, and arguably better at the 'fun' stuff as it has an LSD + NA Motor, but the fiat has more torque and thus is easier to live with day to day. As you say mentioned also, a slight fettle with the engine (remap) will safely see these with 170 bhp (+32) and 205 lb/ft (+28) of torque. Most importantly however, is the 124's value. These can now be had basically brand new (sub 1k miles) for just £13,500. Making them significantly cheaper to buy than an MX5. Their rarity and lower cost in theory should also reduce their rate of depreciation in comparison to a similar age/spec MX5. Importantly also, for just around £1k more, you can get yourself a Lusso Plus spec model which has lots of useful and desirable features such 7 inch media system, satnav, reverse camera, bose sound system, keyless entry, adaptive LED headlights, chrome exhausts and much more. Now is a great time to take advantage of the 124 spider as they'll give anyone some of the cheapest and most fun motoring you can get within warranty right now!

[@howardlake6178]

I reckon, Mazda said to Fiat, you aren’t selling enough of them. We need that capacity back, for our demand. Great shame because I think the Fiat and Abarth have so much more character. Anyone with 20 years, should find a low mileage one, because the ratio of 25 MX5s to 1 Fiat, combined with the Japanese build quality, mean…….great investment 😀

[@CarlClifford]

Looking into buying nearly this same car, color and all, in about 2 weeks. Great feedback and honest opinion. Much appreciated bud.

[@julioblanco]

Says doesn't like anything retro, wears shirt from the 80's🤣🤣

[@lemon58421]

I have one already 2 years and I am still realy happy !!!!:-)

[@jamesm90]

I think it’s much better looking than the MX-5.

[@BibtheBoulder]

#metoo

[@chrishoggett1375]

My wife has one of these as a company car (the lusso version). In one year she has put 30000 miles on it, and not a thing has gone wrong, interior is holding up well too. So I’m rather impressed. It is holding up well. Nice weather, roof down, it’s kinda fun. But I personally really don’t like the turbo lag. It’s poky as you say, but god, it takes ages for the turbo to come on. She has also often impressed me with how much she actually fits in the boot.

[@gabrielflores1149]

I have a US Spec Abarth 124, I have it tuned and it is simply a blast. Sounds AMAZING, good amount of power, and with $500 worth of suspension mods it will out corner much more expensive cars. Almost no one recognizes the brand and think it is a Porsche, Lamborghini, BMW, etc.

[@ilcugginocanadese]

The steering wheel IS Italian - MX-5 forums are filled with people wanting to swap theirs for the FIAT's. I agree, this is not a car for larger people. I'm 6' and 165lbs and the car fits me like a second skin. Also pay attention to the weight capacity limit (check the door frame label) it's very low, under 300lbs capacity. I have the Abarth in North America, confirming it IS a trim level here but lots of features are missing: No Record Monza exhaust (but still a nice quad) and no scorpions inside the car.

[@griffincc2]

I love this car. I have a 2017 for the last 2 years. Makes me so happy seeing your opinion change on it. I wish you got to put the top down on a nicer day.

[@iliastsiphlidis4607]

I have mine since 2017 as a daily here in Oz, the Abarth version with the Monza exhaust. I did add black vinyl on mine, don’t shoot me :-) I just like it. I have taken it all over Australia, including the outback and whilst many in monstrous SUV were baffled, I have even gone camping in the bush. I chose it over the Miata for style, the motor and I just like Italian cars more, that they were build in Japan was a massive bonus. No problems, other than regular service, changed tires twice (Michelin Sport 4). I would not change it for anything, lightweight roadster with rear wheel drive that you can have fun without having to go bonkers fast.

[@anthonyg.1926]

I have the 2017 124 Fiat Spider. Love this little sports car, I drive around in the Bay area here in San Francisco with such joy! I do however, get a lot of looks and in receipt of plenty compliments. People make statements that they can't beleive its a Fiat. Some guys call my car a Fiata...imagine!

[@davidrobertson2256]

I’ve had my lusso remapped to 178 bhp. It’s now got the power it deserves. A real performance bargain. Save money on the Abarth and remap a 124!

[@ChuckleDrums]

That is my eventual plan. Also getting a custom catback exhaust made and fitted to liven up the sound a bit

[@jjpianist1]

Does remapping to 178 bhp affect your warranty? Its something that I might consider down the road, however, for most of my driving needs, the turbo has plenty of power and low end acceleration, especially with the 6 speed manual, which I absolutely love! I didn't buy it to be a muscle car, but rather for my wife and I to enjoy cruising the back roads on nice sunny days. The car gets a bad rap unfortunately, because of consumer perceptions regarding FIATs. After a year of ownership, its a joy to drive, and has been totally flawless in terms of fit and finish and reliability.

[@notmenotme614]

Which map did you use? I also have a lusso and wish it had the Abarth performance. I read the only difference between the Fiat and Abarth is just the engine map and exhaust.

[@ZKozak-hp5vb]

@@notmenotme614 abarth has a clutch-pack limited slip diff, monoblock brembo brakes, front brace between struts linked to the bulkhead, different suspension with bilstein shocks, and available recaro seats. I have a lusso, and the only Abarth version available here was an auto. I sold my mgb in the summer and wasn't impressed with the audi s4 I picked up. I bit the bullet and got the Lusso. Couldn't be happier (perhaps if a manual abarth was available....but that ship has sailed). Only maps available are "piggy-back" style, so you can remove the flashed map whenever you want. Intake and exhaust (particularly the cross/ down pipes), along with a flash opens these up a lot. I'm doing everything else before I go after the engine.

[@jjpianist1]

And now after 2 years of ownership, still totally reliable with not a single issue. One of the best kept secrets on the car market, due to the fickle and misinformed nature of the American car-buying public, and the biased attitude of MX5 owners.

[@StefABtv]

*not driven the fiat version but the Abarth 124 is great fun and a very nice car*

[@Guenounovitch]

T_T

[@Lar308]

Just bought a 2017 Abarth 124 a few days ago with just 18,000 miles up. Really loving it. Always considered an MX5 but all generations including the latest have disappointed me a little in the styling dept. So its great to be able to get an MX5 with some Italian styling and flair. Roll on the summer please.

[@peterbutler3821]

Hello James, I found your review of the 124 Spider honest and informative for those who are considering purchasing the car. I purchased a left hand drive Lusso model in 2017 which i enjoy driving with my wife along the coast in southern Spain. The car is fun to drive and should be appreciated for what it is. Comparing the car to a more expensive higher horse power models is pointless. Keep up the good work. Peter.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Peter

[@RandomThingydiv6]

good review as usual, cant wait for the giuiletta review.

[@DropTopTees]

You make so many comparisons to the MX-5 yet you fail to note the 124 has extra noise dampening so has less road noise than the MX-5 ND. Also, you attribute its handling to Mazda - WRONG. It's suspension is tuned by Fiat. The reason Fiat used the NC tranny is because it has more torque than the ND and Fiat was worried the new tranny for the ND would be unable to handle it's torque. They were correct. NDs are notorious for destroying their gearboxes when being driven hard. And yes, there are multiple design clues taken from the original 124 Spiders. This is because they created their modern 124 as a celebration of the original's 50 year anniversary. I have no idea how anyone can think a ND looks better than a NF, but we all have personal tastes. For example, I would never wear that absolutely horrid shirt you have on. but - hey- personal taste. I like my Classica so much, we now have an Abarth, too!

[@jimspackman8527]

Yes, you can use them as a daily driver. I bought my Lusso in 2016 and it's got 105,000 miles on it now. It's done the daily 45 miles each way commute, trips to Europe and been an absolute blast in the Welsh mountains ( and in "Germany"...). Even now, there are no rattles or squeaks and it still drives like it did the day I picked it up. The 44 mpg average over its life so far is an unexpected bonus too.

[@vantheman2599]

Just bought a Lusso version of this car, and it is fantastic! I am 6'2" and fit in just fine. Really, a brilliant car. I find myself smiling every time I get behind the wheel. I think it looks beautiful. And I really enjoy the look of the hood over the steering wheel. Just a fun, proper roadster.

[@topefisher1]

I bought a Fiat 124 Spider S Design model 2 years ago. This video helped make my mind up that it was the type of car I was looking for. The criteria was that it had to be reasonably quick, sporty to drive , reasonably economical and above all have a comfortable compliant suspension. I live in a rural area with rural quality road surfaces so anything with a hard crashy ride would be unbearable. After 2 years I can only agree with almost everything Jayemm said in the video, personally I absolutely love the styling. It is the most fun , not fastest by a long way, car I have ever had in my 50 years of driving , on a twisty B road its a blast. If you are watching this video wondering if you should or should not buy one I can only say do it , you will not regret it

[@markfischer9012]

I've been driving mine for over a year now. It's the most fun in a car I've ever had. The turbo is a bit of an issue, and it has nothing to do with the trim packages. Even the Abarth's turbo gives out at 5500RPM. It's an ECU issue. There's a couple places that can fix that, but even still, the car gets you up to speed in normal situations. I've done some modification to the diverter valve and now there's less boost loss between shifts. Also, putting in a cold air intake will make the car more responsive and has improved my MPG by about 10% The biggest problem I've been having is the way the body panels are held on. They use those stupid plastic pins. I've already had to replace 7 of them and a small plastic piece that fell off in the rear tire well. Even with those issues, I have 0 regrets in having bought this car. It's fun to drive, a good looker, and fun to work on (if you're into that).

[@BibtheBoulder]

Hi. I'm looking at buying one of these cars and wondered if you could give me some feedback of ownership...

[@markfischer9012]

@@BibtheBoulder Having had mine for 5 years as a daily driver, it's a fantastic car. The biggest downside, so far, is that the seats take some getting used to, and I wouldn't recommend if you have back problems. Otherwise, if you're looking for a better looking Miata, this is well worth it.

[@BibtheBoulder]

@@markfischer9012 Many thanks Mark....

[@alexsmall6850]

Having had a scruffy 1500 Spitfire for 5 years in the past and now have an MK2 MX5 they both provide so much fun most of the time. Living in Cornwall, not much is faster safely through the lanes. Yes, more power, yes more speed might be nice, yet when you are driving down narrow lanes nothing beats a little sports car with the roof down. The basic rule is, if the rain or mizzle is not too bad then the roof is down. Having visited a combined Fait and Mazda dealership recently they commented that the 124 had been canceled. Which is a pity as I think that the 124 is nicer looking car than the MK4 MX5. even if the MX5 RF does look a lot like a C3 Corvette. Well a far smaller one...But still. Keep up the good work Jay.

[@mandeyoung3495]

Alex Small i has a 1979 thAt was made on oct 29 1978 I was so in love with that car despite it being made when I was 2

[@janboblarry]

NBs are my favorite Miata. NAs being 2nd. Cant stand NCs, NDs arent bad. The 124 looks like a nicer Miata IMO as a former NB owner for 3 years. Im buying one of this come spring or late winter

[@skelejp9982]

I remember, back in the days, a Friend of mine gave me a lift in an old 124 Sport Coupe. He told me ,the car was no joke ,it was a real feisty sports car. I was amazed by the motor character, hearing those Carburetors, and the engine ! Greetings !

[@adamhastie5718]

I have the Abarth version..170hp ..the single exhaust looks terrible..all leather interior and a heap of Bose speakers..heated seats. manual. The car is great fun and damn quick.

[@spannerworks1]

Hi James Just found you channel - and a proud owner of a Fiat 124 Spider Lasso Plus - welcome to the Fiat world and a fantastic drive. A great new classic in my view.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Welcome to the channel

[@marvin4827]

Great job as usual bro.... Keep them coming.

[@MrCarrera28]

Enjoyable video, refreshing to see someone with a positive view of the Fiat.

[@RJC-_]

I'm new to your channel.. A great review. You got yourself a subscriber. Well done. 👏👏👏

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thankyou very much

[@paultaylor9652]

Epic little car, I actually prefer the look of the Fiat over the Mazda.

[@MW-gi1tr]

We have a 2018 124 Lusso. I commute 60 miles round trip in it 2-3 days a week. I’m 6’3” and it works quit nice,actually. It’s been a great car for the 15 months we’ve owned it.

[@carlgreisheimer8701]

The people from LOTUS back in the 70s said that the car that inspired them to build the ELAN was the original 124 Spider. But most people have called the old FIAT SPIDER a poor man's ALFA ROMEO SPIDER.

[@oliox8685]

Just shook on one of these today... Can't wait to pick it up. The test drive was a revelation after 17 years of Volkswagen/Audi.

[@BibtheBoulder]

How you getting on with it? I am seriously considering buying one...

[@XB75015]

At the beginning I was looking for a 124 Lusso until the dealer in Southern California wanted to sell me an Alfa Romeo Giulia and did not make any effort to make a test drive with the 124. I went next door to Mazda and left with a soul red MX5. 14 months and 12,000 miles driving top down almost all the time along the Pacific in San Diego and this is a pure happiness. Would change only for an F-type, maybe one day?

[@carlbusque]

Have a 2017 manuel from new, love it. People think it is exotic, even it really isn’t. But Fiat does not have a huge presence in Canada. Love your work, keep at it.😊

[@TheOffertonhatter]

Nice little video. It is a shame they don't make them or sell them in the UK anymore. A saw one back in 2022 in the south of France in the Camargue region, a black one with beige leather and hood down. It really was a pretty little thing in the flesh and perfect in that environment.

[@markanderson1974]

Just shows you that you don't have to spend a fortune to have a rip roaring B class road experience. Great vid.

[@lloydvehicleconsulting]

Love the "Days Since Opinion Changed" piece of paper!

[@johnmohanmusic]

Your willingness to change your opinion speaks volumes about your reasonableness, or perhaps, speaks volumes about how fantastic this car must be to change your set-in stone opinion. :D I was surprised you didn't like the looks of the Spider. I think it is beautiful. I do not understand why they chose to put such a puny engine in it. Imagine how much better it would be with a 250+ hp 2 Liter Turbo engine. The last iterations of the original Fiat Spider even offered a 2 Liter Turbo engine more than 40 years ago. Why couldn't this one have a similar size engine with today's horsepower levels? If it did, it would still be available and selling like crazy.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Or even just the 1.75L engine they already had!

[@tedheavy3441]

13:00 Fiat added several kilos to the car weight adding sound deadening. The Fiat is quieter than the Mazda.

[@mickdebrou9235]

love the outside the car low camera shots that show the speed you're doing! quite addictive!

[@CB-RADIO-UK]

Very fair review and great camera angles. Quick question. What make / model is your lapel mic ? Cheers.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It is a sennheiser mic going to a Tascam recorder

[@Troy_nov1965]

I think the scarecrow from Hee Haw wore the same exact shirt.

[@funkymonkey1198]

You are wrong about the Abarth's heritage bonnet but oh well

[@josephbingham1255]

I drove a 2017 Bronzo Magnetico Titanium as a loaner from a dealer. That color makes the car to my mind beautiful and sophisticated. It curiously had a door sticker that said "assembled in China," whatever that means? 10:23 Cars are parked in the driving lanes?

[@BibtheBoulder]

In the UK you can legally park as those cars were parked...

[@vulturewaterbug]

The only people I hear criticizing this car don't own one. Best car I ever had.

[@murrieteacher]

I am still stuck on the MGF/TF. I have raced the F for 15 years and had great fun. Ran the F down the West Coast of Australia through the Jarra forests. And now have a chipped TF 160 that is even quicker. If I was to change I would seriously look at the Boxster S. Just have a love of mid-engine cars. The TF is making 183hp. Or a bit under 150hp at the wheels.

[@ZZZWorks]

What Japan Influence.... A Abarth is complete modified in driving options from the basic car. Also the basic Fiat 124 is different from a Mazda. The Abarth Tuning happens in Italy / Europe in a own factory with lots of technical changes. And a Abarth is most rare... with its unique own character.

[@StephenThompson-b4b]

Had my Classica a year now absolutely love it, only 140hp not an issue as power to weight ratio gives it fair turm of speed unfortunately it does attract its fair share of tail gater's pwer and speed are only good if youve got the skills to match it sadly a lot don't

[@1970boggy]

Fair and honest opinion James My personal is what’s the point? It’s not as good as an MX5.

[@bomfunk77]

How is it not as good as a mazda? It is a mazda with fiat badges, also the multiair engine chucks out a considerable amount of torque in lower rev range unlike the n/a 2lt mazda unit. This makes it a more useable car and for the cost of a remap you will have abarth power figures.

[@derekarrowsmith140]

And, it’s not as common as muck on the roads.

[@eusdeenius]

It's a more positive review than I expected.

[@m.goodpickle9609]

You must not have expected much. It was one of the most derogatory I've seen, next to Motor Trend a couple years back.

[@zelphx]

The 124 is still being sold in the USA, and has pride of place on the USA website.

[@karlx19]

See if you can get your hands on a Barchetta - I bought a new one back in the day and loved it

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

Left hand drive breakdown waiting to happen. Don't ever buy one.

[@karlx19]

MagicAyrtonforever didn't say 'buy one' (even though I never had an issue with mine) - left hand drive isn't an issue; my Integrale gets down the road just fine- I meant to compare Fiat's 2 seater sports car from back in the day - NA engine, styling, handling etc etc - as a comparison video

[@MrSunnyBhoy]

love that shirt, not many ppl can pull it off but you do, another great review. I don't rate fiat at all.. got a soft spot for the Mx-5 and I will have one someday

[@althor5550]

Late researching this car. Just curious in cooler/cold weather if you miss heated seats with leather option or is cloth "warm enough"? I've only had vinyl/leather with heated seats...

[@ckyliu]

Cloth seat without heating is fine, you can get a wee bit cold on your thighs with the roof and windows down when it gets below about 7'c though. Cabin heat is great though .

[@harald.370]

I was at the factory in Hiroshima when the first batch was made and hadn't been shipped yet. MX5's, CX3's and 124's were produced but NO MENTION OF ANY KIND OF THE 124!! I pointed at a 124, asked what it was. 'Special Mazda' was the answer 😂😂😂

[@Fee.1]

Fascinating, wish that was on video

[@harald.370]

@@Fee.1 believe it or not but there are no cameras allowed in the car factory 😉

[@Fee.1]

Harald.111’s car adventures! Hence my simply wishing there was video instead of scolding you for not recording it. Unless you’re a cameraman for a show that was allowed access in which case scolding shall commence promptly:P

[@harald.370]

@@Fee.1 No, was there for a holiday. Hiroshima has free access to 'Mazda World' which encompasses a factory and the small Mazda museum. It rained cats and dogs that day, glad we took the visit 👍

[@DassRoc]

heh, not a bad thing imo, MX5's are great

[@dangcool3864]

Hey James. I wanted to ask you what sort of mount do you use for attaching the camera to the windscreen? I will be scared to mount my DSLR on something a bit flimsy.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It's a 120mm Manfrotto mount

[@Birmingham_racing]

I swear some of your shirts are soo bright they make the sun look dull

[@notmenotme614]

The biggest difference between American, European Fiat 124s and the Abarth is the engine map and the Abarth has a different exhaust (stainless?). The interior is identical to the MX-5, the Classica is the most basic trim, the Lusso Plus trim level would be a better 124 to review. Im 5' 9" and 75Kg and find my Fiat 124 cramped, even having the seat fully back. With my 124 theres noticeable turbo lag below 2000rpm when trying to drive around tight junctions or a multi story carpark, I stall this car more in 1 month than Ive stalled previous cars in their entire life. However above 2500rpm its fine, the acceleration isn't linear compared to a normally aspirated car and when the turbo comes on boost at 2500rpm to 3500rpm I love the surge. The good thing about the manual roof is that its very quick to put down, you can even put it down whilst driving at a slow speed. On a MX-5 NC with the folding hard roof, you have to park up, put the handbrake on and wait 12 seconds (which seems like forever at a junction with cars behind you) If you can handle the lack of leg room, I think my 124 is a great car to own, I love how unique it is and I recommend it.

[@lordbyron3603]

Fabulous ! People keep comparing my red Lusso to a Mazda Miata. Personally I love the lines and contours of my Spyder. I call it Ferrari’s younger brother.

[@CaiSpidox]

I actually prefer the looks of the fiat over the mx5 and because it would be a daily car..well I'd love to own one in the future.

[@mark.e.p]

I love the styling and to me its reflective of what a sports car should be. Great review as well, very indepth.

[@Jabber-ig3iw]

The US spec Abarth isn’t an abarth, it’s a fiat with some abarth badges stuck to it. Like you say it’s a trim level. The Europe spec Abarth is built on the mx5 line in japan, then sent to Abarth in Italy for final assembly. Hence why it has an abarth badge on the steering wheel and the US model has a fiat badge on the steeering wheel.

[@zsoltpapp3363]

Sorry but this make no sense at all. Abarth 124 and Fiat 124 is 100% assembled in japan on the miata/mx-5 line, in Hirosima. No other assembly plant exist for these cars in the whole world. The fiat and "abarth" engines and transmissions - which are the same engines with different turbochargers are sent to japan to build them into the 124s. Other then that its just badge engineering and different suspension settings. Between the Abarth and the Fiat there is virtually no difference, only the badging and the turbocharger plus the suspension settings. Its more like a trim in Europe, too, like the AMG for the Mercedeses. Abarth does not have separate dealerships in Europe, these cars are sold in the Fiat dealerships. And the stock 124 Fiat can be tuned for the exact same specs as the Abarth 124 any day right in your garage, there is nothing special to it (ok in Europe slip differential only comes as standard with the Abarth 124 but its also a pug-and-play part, can be added as a mod. later. This is a great marketing idea, because the target audience of these cars is a bit different here in Europe. The Mazda is for the driver purists, who can only live with a natural aspirated engine and the worlds best manual shifter, while Fiats are bought mainly by those who dont really want a sportscar, only a softer good looking convertible (still fun to drive), and Abarth is there for the tuners and weekend-racers. There was always the possibility to turbocharge your miata with aftermarket parts now here is one from the factory and its branded as Fiat/Abarth 124.

[@inflatable2]

I owned a classic Fiat 124 Sport Spider for many years so automatically I had to try this new one when it came out, but unfortunately somehow the car got smaller in 50+ years time.. I simply do not fit in it properly (headroom is the main issue for me, I'm 6"3) where I did fit the classic one strangely enough.. Oh well, still happy with my BMW Z4 E89 30i..

[@NigelDeForrest-Pearce-cv6ek]

Great Review!!!

[@Danny-qq5nr]

I shall be shopping for one of these buggers Abarth hopefully

[@A1DJPaul]

I Want One. As an MX5 owner I know what Jay EMM is Saying. A Boxster / Z4 is Vanity, A 124 Spider is Sanity. Why Spend More for Less FUN ?

[@LukeEvans55]

So what's wrong with the f-type? I'm looking at getting hold of a manual one potentially. Have a test drive booked for next weekend.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It's not especially fast for the power due to the weight, or super fun. Makes a nice noise though, and has a good interior. IMHO the F Type only makes sense with a V8

[@roarpal6314]

my is red and i love so much so fun to drive 122k miles no problems whatsoever!

[@damiantuttle1348]

The question on my mind is.....Will they rust and fall apart like MX5s Do ??

[@NubletPie278]

So strange that these didn't last long before discontinuation. They imo add everything the MX5 is lacking (or at least the Abarth version does) - something that resembles performance, sound and a sexier interior. And they are everything enthusiasts ask for in an affordable package. And yet people didn't buy them apparently.

[@NubletPie278]

@richardharrold9736 Nah to the first two and I have no idea why Mazda is more likeable.

[@matisshansens6557]

it's an Italian company and no one knows what will they do next.. including them. - JayEmm

[@seanflahockey]

Loved my white Abarth with the Heritage stripe. The compliments I would get from strangers was completely different than my Miata. The Fiat was much more fun.

[@paulm3033]

Nice looking but not sure I'll be swapping my Mx5 RF for one anytime soon .

[@CrisWoollacott]

Don't suppose anyone knows the mechanical engine changes between this and the Abarth. Given the comments about the US version having another 20bhp which I assume is just this version being 'detuned, is this thing just a remap away from greatness?

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Yes I believe so

[@robyoung9968]

Good video, I feel like I’m in the car with him driving on the opposite side of the road.

[@jackmason4374]

I drive one from Germany to England in 1974 with 4 people crammed in it 😂 I’m looking to buy the modern version I know it’s an mx5 in drag but I love the styling !

[@casualagent7250]

I much prefer the look of the spyder, compared to the Mazda. Good job Fiat. The new Supra though, 🤮 oh dear. Rehashed BMW methinks

[@ChuckleDrums]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks that!

[@carholic-sz3qv]

I still prefer the look of the Mazda miata

[@desertsoldier41]

Sounds like the UK got screwed with the non Abarth models. In North America we get 160hp in the non Abarth models...164hp for the Abarth.

[@EllisBurton3339]

Yes , but what would you spend your money on , the Mazda 1.5 mx5 , or the Fiat 1.4 spider classic. Remembering the engine is FIAT.

[@nrs6956]

A rather light hearted review but very enjoyable. Thank you.

[@nrs6956]

Also forgot to mention that I owned 124 Spider vintage early 70's. Generally reliable and fun. Smog requirements would have prohibited the performance. Traded in Alfa 2000 Spider.

[@3rdRockRider]

9:56 that bus made me nervous for you.

[@prycenewberg3976]

"What could go wrong?" The engine. The engine was designed by Italians, ergo, the engine can (and will) go wrong. In fact, it will probably go very wrong very quickly.

[@waynesimpson2074]

Aye, have a quick look online at the owners forums and the oil consumption has been a issue. I can't agree with Jay here:- ''..engine spins up easily..''? The engine is strangulated and won't rev out, torque and power is down low then hits a flat spot...plateau. Which is how Jay contradicts himself later in the video? It now looks like it was discontinued due to inability to achieve emissions regs? I've driven my bosses car and it has the best exhaust noise from any current 4 cylinder plus the steering wheel is a plus as well. Body control is well damped, better than my mx5 .

[@Fee.1]

Isnt the multiair a camless Freevalve/Pneumatic & Hydraulic Valve setup like koenigsegg ?

[@julioblanco]

Only on the intake side. The exhaust has a regular cam.

[@Fee.1]

Julio Blanco well that’s...curious, I’d think you’d lose out on a large chunk of the benefits by doing that unless it’s some bizarre cam in block + freevalve hunchback design

[@ivantuma7969]

its funny because back in the day, I didn't like the '70's and '80's 124 spider either. I think the new 124 looks better than the MX-5 and with the turbo, with me living at high altitude, I would prefer it over the Mazda) The 2024 coupe is beautiful (somewhat reminds me of the BMW z3 shooting brake from some angles - with a splash of faux Ferrari or ~240z influence).

[@TheSaint491]

Looking forward to seeing a vid on the abarth

[@Fee.1]

Sweet FCA* interest. Oh very interesting you enjoy the suspension as Savagegeese seemed like the suspension was a major downgrade from the Miata & Fiat had tweaked it, though mmaybe that’s a plus on the “typical British B-roads” I hear so much about Bending your shoulder sounds painful

[@kevinobrien7315]

Do prefer the Fiat styling over the Mazda but at 6'2" I don't fit in the Mazda as I was considering buying one until I tried to drive an MX5

[@alig.20]

In the country I live, all 124s on sale are with automatic transmissions and they sell about 5 thousand dollars MORE than the MX5. Some members of the car enthusiast brotherhood are being tortured continuously guys.