Italian stallion rides again

Unlike the original, which borrowed many of its parts from the 124 saloon, the new version bears no relation to any other model in the Fiat line-up. Instead, for added inspiration, the firm looked east. Mazda’s MX-5 is the best-selling roadster of all-time and last year’s fourth generation update is one of the best roadsters I have driven. Affordable, fun and an absolute blast to drive, basing a modern interpretation of a timeless classic on Mazda’s proven formula makes perfect sense.

Despite the fact it shares the same main body, suspension and rear-wheel drive system and is built on the same production line in Japan, Fiat has gone great lengths to ensure the 124 Spider encapsulates the passion of a classic Italian sports car.

Fifty years of heritage has certainly helped. The genetic link with the 1966 version is clear to see: the distinctive headlights, kinked shoulder line and swooping bonnet are all strong clues. While the middle-aged lothario is impossible to match in the glamour stakes — modern safety standards see to that — both cars share the same small, punchy frame and bags of attitude.

It’s steering wheel and dash are identical to the MX-5’s

Fiat’s engineers wisely ensured that every body panel is different from the MX-5. The 124 Spider is slightly longer than its organ donor and there’s a hint of Dodge Viper to the rear styling. It’s inside where the similarities with the Mazda are more evident. The steering wheel and dash are identical to the MX-5 and it makes no attempt to disguise the fact that the infotainment system was lifted wholesale from Mazda. Even the key is the same for goodness’ sake.

As with the MX-5, storage solutions amount to little more than a cupholder and a couple of tiny cubbyholes. There’s a lockable box behind the two seats but it’s only large enough to hold a family size bag of Tayto and little else.

One of the joys of roadsters is they don’t have to be pushed hard to put a smile on your face. The low-slung driving position confers a tremendous sense of speed, even when you’re keeping below 50kph in built-up areas. Factor in the feeling of the wind rushing through your hair and you realise the purer the driving experience, the more enjoyable it is. The throwback hood can be operated with one hand and in a variety of scenarios.

I was sat at traffic lights in downtown Dublin when a beautiful sunbeam cut through the murky grey skies. Rather than feeling jealous of the commuters on their bikes I slipped the roof down and was soaking up the rays in seconds.

The tan leather seats of my test car looked fabulous but the rear cushion was a little too narrow for my liking. Indeed, if I had a complaint about the cabin it’s that it is a little bit cramped. Despite being of average height and build, I still felt a bit hemmed in.

I found myself operating the wonderfully precise, short-throw gearstick with my elbow pressed firmly against the rear bulkhead. And with a heavy coat on it felt like I had my arms pressed against my sides for the entirety. Mind you, I have 6ft-plus pals who have happily squeezed themselves into MX-5s without complaint and I’m assuming they’d be willing to take a hit for something as good-looking as this.

For boot space the 124 Spider beats the Mazda by 10 litres, and I managed to fit a weekly grocery shop with no problems.

On the road, the 124 Spider is sheer, unadulterated joy. Fiat has replaced Mazda’s naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine with its own turbocharged 1.4-litre. It’s the same powerplant that’s in the Alfa Romeo MiTo but in the lightweight 124 Spider it really comes into its own.

Zero to 100kph takes 7.5 seconds and top speed is 215kph. But speed plays second fiddle to the go-kart style handling. Fiat’s engine thrums away nicely when you put the foot down but it is not without its quirks.

For instance, it’s important to keep that turbo unit spooled. Let the revs drop below 3,000rpm and no amount of flooring of the throttle will quicken the car’s responses.

With an official fuel economy of 6.4 litres per 100km, it’s thirstier than the MX-5’s smaller engine.

The absence of a limited-slip differential means the Fiat’s rear-wheel drive system can be a handful in slippery conditions. Fortunately, the beautifully balanced chassis and weighty steering mean any unexpected flicks of the tail are quickly brought under control.

Overall, the heavier steering of the Fiat makes it a little less reactive than the Mazda and imbues a sense of added maturity. The Italian firm also added in some extra sound deadening to make it a more relaxing drive over long distances.

The 124 Spider is available in three trim levels — Classica, Lusso and Lusso Plus with prices ranging from €31,495 to €35,795. Standard features include the 7in touchscreen display, leather gearstick and steering wheel, LED rear lights, cruise control and 16in alloys. Upgrading to Lusso (€34,295) adds a leather interior, climate control, heated seats, sat nav, keyless entry and a rear parking camera. Top spec models come with adaptive LED lights and a nine-speaker Bose sound system.

Essentially, the decision between the 124 Spider and the equally brilliant but slightly cheaper MX-5 boils down to personal taste. Whichever way you go, good times are guaranteed.

New Fiat Spider
Price €35,795
Engine 1.4-litre turbo
Performance 0 to 100kph in 7.5 seconds
Top speed 215kph
Fuel/Co2 6.4 litres per 100km, 148g/km
Road tax Band C (€390 a year)
Rating ★★★★Verdict That’s Amore
On sale Out now