Manufacturer collaborations can be great, that's why when Fiat and Mazda combine to share platforms, aficionados were excited for the output. However, this is also the reason why similarities amongst cars can be seen, which would result in pitting them against each other. This inspired us to do the 2017 Fiat 124 Sport Spider vs Mazda MX-5 battle of the little road monsters.
The Fiat 124 Sport Spider and Mazda MX-5 are basically cousins. There were both built at the same Hiroshima Mazda plan and both deserves a spot in your runway.
Mazda MX-5 has its advantage off the bat as it is the first to be launched, as well as having a strong cult following. The Fiat 124 Spider, on the other hand, is said to be a copycat as it has adopted many solutions, engineering and components of the MX-5. But some aficionados support it strongly, saying that it is better and there are a lot of differences that can set it apart from the MX-5.
Battle of Exterior
The new generation of Mazda MX-5 front is widened and has two thin LED headlamps that enhance its aggressive look. The contours molded the fins that resemble a bottle of Coca Cola 60s. The proportions and the rear looks similar to the current Jaguar F-type and the look is more British than ever. For the first time, the door trim goes in the body color and the granulated plastic has a refined, look giving the perfect finish for the MX-5, which people have dubbed it as the "Racer Boy."
For its part, the Fiat 124 Spider takes a more nostalgic tack, with its distinctive fascia providing a direct link to the old 124 Spider sold beginning in the mid-1960s. Its style seeks to recover details of the Fiat 124 small original, such as headlights rounded or horizontal pilots focused inward. To do this, they have stretched its hood and have widened their body to get better presence.
Almost Same Interior
While the exterior of the Fiat 124 Sport Spider and the Mazda MX-5 are different, it is opposite in the interior as they are almost the same. Available space, dashboard components as well as storage units are the same. Even the infotainment system of both cars are the same. Fiat adds a personal touch with its deck colors while Mazda has its iconic Recaro bench seating, which offers a better support for more sporty driving.
Mechanics: Two Opposing Visions
The Mazda MX-5 remains true to its original recipe. Its naturally aspirated 2.0L, 4-cylinder engine is always ready for the high revs. Offering 155 HP and 148 lb-ft of torque with a top speed of 200 km/h and an acceleration of zero to 100 km / h in 8.5 seconds. The Fiat 124 Sport Spider inherited a 1.4 liter, four-cylinder turbocharged engine that is able to generate 160 HP and 184 lb-ft of torque, where the Fiat enjoys a very slight advantage.
The Verdict
Indeed, the 2017 Fiat 124 Sport Spider is based on the Mazda MX-5, but they are very different cars and we both like them as they are. Fiat has just been smart on trying to get its fair share on the niche market for those looking for a fun two-seater roadster by having some of MX-5's components.
The two roadsters aim to please drivers who want to enjoy driving and the choice is really up to them. MX-5 has a slight advantage as it costs is less $1,300 than the Fiat. The purists will also likely to continue going for the legendary MX-5, but that does not mean the Fiat 124 Sport Spider will not have its own share of fans.
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