Classic open-top cars like the 124 are becoming increasingly rare, now largely the domain of premium brands. In fact, the Spider’s UK production lasted only two years, ending in 2018. Among its competitors, the BMW Z4 offers raw excitement with a more powerful six-cylinder engine, while the Audi TT Roadster features quattro four-wheel drive. Alternatively, the MX-5 remains the 124’s closest rival.
The 124 is powered by a single engine option: a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 138bhp, available with either a manual or automatic gearbox. For those seeking performance on par with hot hatches, the Abarth 124 offers a tuned version of the same engine, delivering 168bhp.
Equipment, options, and extras
Since the 124 offers only one engine option, let’s focus on the gearbox. If you must have an automatic, be prepared to pay more, as it’s only available with the top-tier Lusso Plus trim. However, we’d recommend sticking with the manual, which perfectly complements the car’s character and ranks among the best gearboxes in any vehicle.
The mid-range Lusso trim hits the sweet spot for convertible buyers, offering everything you really need, including a 7.0-inch infotainment screen absent from the entry-level Classica trim.
Classica trim provides essential features like air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. However, Lusso adds notable upgrades, such as a 7.0-inch infotainment system with sat-nav, a rear-view parking camera, 17-inch wheels, heated leather seats, automatic climate control, and keyless entry. Lusso Plus goes further, offering premium touches like LED lights and a Bose sound system. Still, the additional cost may not be worthwhile unless the pricing aligns with your budget.
Inside, the 124 feels compact, with limited storage space. The boot is small, much like its rivals, but a boot rack is available as a dealer-fitted accessory if extra capacity is needed. On the plus side, the dash is well-designed, with intuitive controls that are easy to reach. Build quality is solid, and the car avoids excessive scuttle shake, despite its fabric roof.
Costs, insurance groups, mpg and CO2
Thanks to its low weight and small engine, the 124 is impressively economical for a convertible. While there’s only one engine available, it can be paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. Manual models deliver an average fuel economy of 44.1mpg (NEDC tested) and cost £155 annually in road tax. Automatic versions are slightly less efficient, with a claimed 42.8mpg and a higher road tax of £195.
For cars registered after April 2017, the road tax is standardized at £155 per year, so it’s worth considering whether the lower purchase price of an older model offsets the difference in tax rates.
Insurance costs are comparable to the 1.5-litre Mazda MX-5, which is great news since the 124 has more power. However, the 124 requires more frequent servicing, with 9000-mile intervals compared to the 12,500 miles of some rivals. To help manage maintenance costs, Fiat offers fixed-price servicing plans.
The Car Planet verdict
The Fiat 124 is a fun and stylish two-seat convertible that's affordable to run, well-equipped, and offers a smooth, comfortable ride. Find yours today at Car Planet!
Car Planet are experts in used cars in Watford and Hertfordshire. Our virtual viewings mean you can check out a car from the comfort of your own home, or you can come in and view our cars in person. Every car goes through a thorough 150-point check to ensure it’s totally roadworthy. We’re transparent, too: we always display the details of a car’s imperfections. We care about sustainability, which is why we plant a tree for every car we sell, and we provide a 7-day money-back guarantee to any customer who isn’t absolutely satisfied with our service. With our competitive finance deals and part exchanges, you’re sure to find what you need, so check out our selection of secondhand 124 Spiders today and let’s get the ball rolling!
