The Fiat 124 Spider 
first hit the road in 1966 as a 2+2 roadster based on the 124 Coupe’s platform. The model lived a long life, as it ran all the way through 1982. Following its run under the Fiat badge, it continued through 1985 as the Pininfarina Spider Azzura. When Mazda announced that it was creating an all-new 2016 MX-5 Miata, it also let out that it co-developed the roadster’s chassis with FCA. Initially, FCA was going to use the chassis to underpin an Alfa Romeo roadster, but it later chose to use it under a Fiat model. Then, in March 2015 at the Geneva Auto Show, FCA announced that the new Fiat convertible would resurrect the 124 Spider nameplate starting in 2016.
With the name finally confirmed, we saw it fit to create a rendering of the new roadster to give you an idea of what we expect.
Can Fiat actually have some success with a model other than the 500 in the U.S.?
Continue reading my preview of the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider to find out.
Rendering
Exterior
It’s hard to say exactly what the 2017 124 Spider will look like, but we created the above rendering as an example of how Fiat may differentiate its roadster from the MX-5. As you can see in our rendering, the 124 Spider’s body is nearly identical to the MX-5, but some differences pop up on the front fascia. Here is where you can see the restyled headlights, a new grille shape, and new air inlets on the outer edges of the front bumper.
Though you cannot see it in our rendering, expect the rear fascia to carry things like a revised bumper and new taillights.
According to reports, Fiat’s goal with the 124 Spider is to keep it at a svelte 2,205 pounds.
Interior
On the inside, look for Fiat to really differentiate itself from Mazda. Expect to see more premium features, like leather and Alcantara, and look for some extra splashes of color that the MX-5 doesn’t have. Except these aesthetic differences, expect the Fiat’s cabin to be similar to the Mazda’s.
Drivetrain
The drivetrain remains unknown, but rumor has it that Fiat will use the same 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that it uses in the Abarth 500. In this tune, the 1.4-liter mill produces 160 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. There could also be an Abarth 124 Spider version that could approach 200 horsepower, giving Miata lovers the power that Mazda has failed to deliver.
Transmission options should include a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic, but it would be nice to see a dual-clutch transmission. That is doubtful, but I can wish, right?
Prices
It’s still too early to give a price to the 124 Spider, but I think it is safe to say that it’ll start out a bit higher than the Miata. Look for it to carry a base price just shy of $30k.
Competition
Mazda MX-5 Miata
One issue that comes along with sharing a platform with other automakers is that you immediately help create your own competition. The 124 Spider and the MX-5 will have some distinct differences that will likely attract different buyers, but with the roadster market being so thin, there is almost no way that buyers won’t cross-shop the brands.
The MX-5 is a little disappointing in the drivetrain, as is comes with a 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine that produces 155 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. While it has similar horsepower to the 1.4-liter turbo engine from Fiat, it has less torque, and it is torque that gives you exhilarating acceleration.
The one thing the 2016 MX-5 will likely have as an advantage over the Fiat 124 Spider is price, as the Mazda will likely start in the low $20k range.
Gallery Mazda MX-5
Conclusion
I can’t believe I am typing this, but barring any craziness with its looks, I think the Fiat 124 Spider will be a better option than the MX-5. It will feature a peppier drivetrain, the same lightweight design, and more upscale options that Mazda simply won’t match. Sure, it will be pricier than the Miata, but the added power and restyled interior will likely make it well worth the extra bucks.