A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.6
Comfort & Interior
3.8
Running Costs
3.7
Practicality
2.9
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a roadster that delivers pure driving excitement without the hefty price tag of a Porsche or BMW? The Abarth 124 Spider might be exactly what you need. This Italian sports car brings together classic roadster styling with modern reliability, offering an engaging driving experience that stands out in the competitive convertible market. Based on the proven Mazda MX-5 platform but given the distinctive Abarth treatment, it delivers sharper handling and more aggressive styling than its Japanese cousin. The turbocharged engine provides genuine performance punch while maintaining reasonable running costs compared to German alternatives. Whether you’re seeking weekend thrills or daily driving enjoyment, the Abarth 124 combines Italian flair with Japanese dependability. The retractable soft top and balanced chassis make it perfect for those who prioritize driving pleasure over practicality. With competitive pricing in the used market and affordable finance options available, it represents excellent value for enthusiasts wanting genuine sports car DNA without premium brand costs.
What's the Abarth 124 Like to Drive?
The Abarth 124 Spider is built for one thing: pure driving pleasure. The heart of this Italian sports car is a 1.4-litre MultiAir turbocharged petrol engine producing 170 horsepower in standard form, or 170 horsepower in the hardcore Abarth version. This delivers brisk acceleration with 0-60mph coming up in just 6.8 seconds. The turbo engine provides strong mid-range punch that makes overtaking effortless and mountain roads an absolute joy.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.4L MultiAir Turbo
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Power Output
170 bhp
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0-60 mph
6.8 seconds
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MPG Combined
40-44 mpg
- Boot Space
- 140 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Abarth 124: Comfort & Features
Step inside the Abarth 124 Spider and you’re greeted by a driver-focused cockpit that prioritises engagement over luxury. The interior design is purposeful and sporty, with supportive Sabelt seats that hold you firmly in place during enthusiastic driving. The dashboard layout is clean and functional, though some materials feel a touch basic compared to German premium rivals. The touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making smartphone integration straightforward.
A visceral, beautifully flawed machine. The Abarth 124 isn’t subtle; it’s a raw, turbocharged throwback, prioritising driving thrills over refinement with delightful abandon.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Abarth 124?
The Abarth 124 Spider sits in the premium sports car category, so running costs reflect its specialist nature. Fuel economy is respectable for a performance car, with real-world figures typically ranging between 35-40 mpg depending on how enthusiastically you drive. Insurance groups are relatively high due to the car’s performance focus and specialist nature, though they’re not unreasonable for the sports car segment.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Abarth 124
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Mazda MX-5
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BMW Z4
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £29,000 | £27,000 | £38,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.4L Turbo 170hp | 2.0L NA 184hp | 2.0L Turbo 197hp |
| Power | 170 bhp | 184 bhp | 197 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 6.8 seconds | 6.5 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 42 mpg | 40 mpg | 38 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 140 litres | 130 litres | 281 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Turbo power, Italian style, Manual gearbox | Natural aspiration, Perfect balance, Reliability | Premium interior, Advanced tech, Powerful engine |
Is the Abarth 124 Practical for Everyday Use?
The Abarth 124 Spider makes no apologies for being a focused two-seater sports car. The 140-litre boot is small but adequate for weekend luggage or a modest shopping trip. With the soft-top folded, boot space reduces further, limiting your carrying capacity for longer journeys. The interior storage is minimal, consisting of small door pockets, a modest glovebox, and a tiny space behind the seats.
Absolutely love my 124 Spider. The sound from that turbo engine is addictive and the handling is just sublime. It’s not practical but that doesn’t matter when every drive puts a huge smile on your face. Build quality is solid and it feels special every time I drive it.
The Abarth 124 Spider stands out as a rare breed in today’s automotive landscape: an uncompromising sports car that prioritises driving pleasure above all else. It successfully combines Italian passion with proven Japanese engineering to create something genuinely special. The turbocharged engine delivers strong performance with a characterful soundtrack, while the expertly tuned chassis provides engaging, confidence-inspiring handling that rewards skilled drivers.
