2019 Fiat 124 Spider: Noisier and More Proud

Main Feature: On Tuesday, Fiat revealed the updates to its 124 Spider convertible sports car, predominantly consisting of enhancements to its appearance.

What’s Fresh: Customers of the 124 Spider Classica can now specify racing stripes for $295, with the choice between the single “Retro Stripe” or the double “Rally Stripe.”

Abarth clients for the Spider now have two fresh choices. The “Veleno” package, priced at $495, changes the color of mirror caps, front lip, and tow hook to vibrant red, incorporates Abarth motifs on floor mats, and swaps the dead pedal for a “bright” faux-chrome option. Interested enthusiasts can also opt for the Record Monza Exhaust, a factory premium exhaust system from Fiat, for $995, allowing them to experience its sound showcased in the accompanying video.

Memorable Quote: According to Steve Beahm, the Head of Passenger Car Brands at FCA North America, “The Fiat 124 Spider, with its iconic Italian design and exclusive turbo power, offers the ultimate exhilarating top-down driving experience. For 2019, we’re introducing new personalized options that will make a statement both on the road and the racetrack.”

Key Information: One of the primary reasons against purchasing a Fiat 124 Spider today is its competitor, the Mazda MX-5, which received significant upgrades for its 2019 model. While previous models of both cars were closely matched in horsepower, the MX-5’s improvement for the current model year with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine resulted in a boost to 181 horsepower, surpassing the Abarth’s 164 hp. Despite the divisive appearance of the fourth-generation MX-5, the elegant Fiat 124 Spider maintains its appeal in its unique segment.