Fiat 124 Spider learns from 4C’s mistakes

High performance, agility and a deep throaty exhaust note are fundamental elements of all Abarth cars and the 124 Spider is no different.

Targeted at a new generation of enthusiasts the Abarth Spider 124 is constructed using sophisticated mechanics and special materials to weigh in at just 1,060kg; dubbing it a best-in-category weight-to-power ratio. This is achieved through installing the engine behind the front axle in order to optimise driving dynamics and provide snappy feedback and agility.

Powering the 124 Spider is a 1.4 litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine that boasts 125 kW and 250 Nm of torque. Bearing in mind that the 124 Spider weighs in at a freckle over 1000kg emphasis must be put on the fact that it equates to approximately 91kW per litre; thus allowing it to sprint to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 232 km/h.

To reciprocate that signature Abarth sound, the 124 Spider is fitted with the Record Monza exhaust with dual mode system capable of modifying the path of exhaust gas according to engine speed.

But the Spider 124 caters for enthusiasts; so Abarth have fitted it with active safety-electronic devices that can be switched off by the driver to achieve that trademark feel of an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports car.

EXTERIOR:

Two words come to mind when “sports car” and “perfect proportions” are put in the same sentence – Mechanical layout. The design of the 124 Spider is wired with Abarth DNA throughout; from the stretched bonnet and short overhangs to the large air intake on the front bumper and rear aerodynamic extractor.

Horizontal rear lights and the swallow-tail section rear wings make up the rear of the car, with the bumpers and boot lid conveying a V-shape.  To finish off the Abarth package on the outside – the Spider 124 wears 17” alloy ‘Forgiato Grey’ wheel rims.

INTERIOR:

Inside the 124 Spider is reflective of what the car stands for – driver experience. A three-gauge instrument panel, leather seats, sporty set-up controls and guaranteed perfect ergonomics are what constitute the interior.  The position of the short gear lever, aluminium pedals and vertical steering wheel reinforce the element of enthusiasm.

Standard interior equipment includes climate control, mp3 player, USB, AUX ports, cruise control and a stereo with four speakers . The Sound Plus pack with integrated infotainment system is also standard equipment which includes a 7-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth connection paired with a Bose sound system comprised of nine speakers.

The 124 Spider is proof Abarth still maintain its unique DNA while representing driving pleasure and sporty appeal.

PRICE:

The Abarth 124 Spider will retail for R649, 900.00 and comes with a three year 100,000km warranty and maintenance plan.

Set to arrive in local showrooms from December 2016 – the all new Abarth 124 Spider is available with a six-speed manual transmission.