Apart from some price and specification variations, there are two key differences between the two models: styling and engines.
The 124 Spider's flagrantly retro looks do a decent job of evoking the original 1966 model. By contrast, the fourth-generation MX-5 adopts the much more modern 'Kodo - Soul of Motion' design language. So, as far as this particular criterion is concerned, personal taste should be the decider.
Powering the rear-wheel drive Fiat is a 1.4 litre MultiAir turbocharged motor that delivers 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS) via a six-speed manual gearbox. If any prospective purchasers want a higher output, then they'll have to wait for the 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) Abarth 124 Spider to arrive.
By contrast, Mazda offers a normally-aspirated 129 bhp (96 kW / 131 PS) 1.5 litre unit which is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. There’s also a 157 bhp (117 kW / 160 PS) 2.0 litre option to rival the aforementioned Abarth version.
According to official figures, the 124 Spider is a quicker car, but the MX-5 promises marginally better efficiency.
Model | Fiat 124 Spider | Mazda MX-5 |
---|---|---|
Engine | 1,368 cc, turbocharged, four cylinders | 1,496 cc, normally-aspirated, four cylinders |
Power | 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS) | 129 bhp (96 kW / 131 PS) |
Torque | 240 Nm (177 lb/ft) | 150 Nm (110 lb/ft) |
0-62 mph | 7.5 secs | 8.3 secs |
Top speed | 134 mph (215 km/h) | 127 mph (205 km/h) |
Combined cycle | 44.1 mpg (6.4 l/100km) | 47.1 mpg (6.0 l/100km) |
CO2 | 148 g/km | 139 g/km |
In terms of cost, the MX-5 1.5i SE is a comparative bargain at £18,495 on the road.
Realistically, the SE-L is a closer match for the similarly-priced entry-level 124 Spider Classica, even though climate control (instead of manual air conditioning), a 7” colour touchscreen and a DAB radio are included on the Mazda's slightly superior standard equipment list.
At the opposite end of each range, the 124 Spider Lusso Plus carries a premium of £500 versus the MX-5 1.5i Sport Nav.
Both come with luxuries such as satellite navigation, keyless entry, LED headlights, automatic lights and wipers, leather upholstery, heated seats and a Bose audio system. The dearer Fiat also boasts 17” rather than 16” alloy wheels, keyless start and a rear-view camera in lieu of reversing sensors, so essentially that's what the extra outlay is paying for.
MX-5 1.5i SE | £18,495 |
124 Spider Classica | £19,545 |
MX-5 1.5i SE-L | £19,595 |
MX-5 1.5i SE-L Nav | £20,195 |
MX-5 1.5i Sport | £22,195 |
124 Spider Lusso | £22,295 |
MX-5 1.5i Sport Nav | £22,795 |
124 Spider Lusso Plus | £23,295 |
Choosing between these two roadsters is going to be a tough task.
Assuming brand loyalty and dealer proximity aren't issues, then the Mazda MX-5 has a small advantage based on value for money. Conversely, the Fiat 124 Spider has the edge in terms of performance.
However, they're narrow distinctions that could well be forgotten after a test drive of either contender.
Related posts:
Abarth 124 Spider unveiled
2016 Mazda MX-5 UK specs and prices
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