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The new Fiat is out, and it's a little beefier than the Mazda Miata.
The 124 Spider has the same engine as the 500 Abarth making 160 HP and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Mazda has 155 HP and 148 lb-ft of torque.
But how about reliability? The two cars have different powertrains, but will most likely have the same interior materials and electronics, albeit designed differently. Do Mazda and Fiat have significantly different warranty coverages?
And what about price? I think the Italian may be pricier, but by how much? Resale value? Would insurance costs be significantly different?
As far as the warranties, both look more or less about average. Mazda offers 5/60 drivetrain and 3/36 on the rest of the car. Fiat offers a flat 4/50 on everything else they sell here, but it is unclear on their website if that includes the Spyder.
Mazda also has a far more widespread dealer network in the U.S. than Fiat/Alfa does...something that may have to be taken into consideration in some areas.
Fiat all the way for me. I like that it recalls the original 124 and doesn't look as stubby as the Miata.
Originally Posted by bagwell
but....no idea why anyone would choose over the MX-5....unless there's an Abarth edition.
While heavier, the Fiat has ~35lb/ft more torque. I also prefer the styling. The best part? The Abarth model will have different sheetmetal that's more aggressive. This is confirmed by people who have already seen it in the flesh.
I always loved the 124 but that was then. I lived through a 131 brava, a Fix It Again Tony if there ever was one. A new Fiat would scare me but i bet it would be fun. I think the styling is fine from what is shown.
^ If they're made at the same factory as the Miata, they MIGHT be reliable. I haven't read much about Fiat's 1.4 Multiair turbo engine to know if its a reliable lump or not. I do know that little engine sounds pretty fiesty and mean in the Abarth, and I usually hate the sound of tiny little 4 cylinder engines with a loud exhaust.
As for the Fiat's styling, I'd take the Miata any day of the week over that lump.
11-18-15, 08:28 AM
Fiat 124 Spider or Mazda MX-5 Miata?
I like that it recalls the original 124 and doesn't look as stubby as the Miata.
