Having already compared the Fiat 124 Spider and 1.5 litre Mazda MX-5 on performance, specification and price, it's now time to examine the more powerful Abarth 124 Spider and 2.0 litre Mazda MX-5.
Beneath distinctive skins, both roadsters share a common rear-wheel drive structure. However, don't think that they're basically the same car, because their engines are very different.
In fact, as the official figures below show, the turbocharged Abarth easily beats the normally-aspirated Mazda on pace and efficiency. Curiously, only the 124 Spider can be ordered with an automatic transmission.
The MX-5 has a huge advantage when matters turn to price, though. Actually, there's a strong case for arguing that these two models aren't really direct competitors, as the cheapest Abarth costs £5,300 more than the most expensive Mazda.
Unfortunately the 124 Spider doesn't have a longer equipment list to compensate.
Yes, 17” alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential and Bilstein dampers come as standard, plus the interior features Bluetooth, a DAB radio, a Bose audio system and cruise control. All of those items are fitted to the MX-5 Sport Recaro too, but it also boasts several other trinkets including satellite navigation.
So deciding between these two nominal rivals is first and foremost a question of budget. If that's not a factor, then a 124 Spider is for anybody who thinks that the MX-5 won't be quick enough for them. Conversely, the Mazda clearly wins on value for money.
Related posts:
Fiat 124 Spider or Mazda MX-5?
Abarth 124 Spider unveiled
Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro limited edition
Beneath distinctive skins, both roadsters share a common rear-wheel drive structure. However, don't think that they're basically the same car, because their engines are very different.
In fact, as the official figures below show, the turbocharged Abarth easily beats the normally-aspirated Mazda on pace and efficiency. Curiously, only the 124 Spider can be ordered with an automatic transmission.
| Model | Abarth 124 Spider | Mazda MX-5 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1,368 cc, turbocharged, four cylinders | 1,998 cc, normally-aspirated, four cylinders | |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Power | 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) | 157 bhp (118 kW / 160 PS) | |
| Torque | 250 Nm (184 lb/ft) | 200 Nm (147 lb/ft) | |
| 0-62 mph | 6.8 secs | 6.9 secs | 7.3 secs |
| Top speed | 144 mph (232 km/h) | 142 mph (228 km/h) | 133 mph (214 km/h) |
| Combined cycle | 44.1 mpg (6.4 l/100km) | 42.8 mpg (6.6 l/100km) | 40.9 mpg (6.9 l/100km) |
| CO2 | 148 g/km | 153 g/km | 161 g/km |
The MX-5 has a huge advantage when matters turn to price, though. Actually, there's a strong case for arguing that these two models aren't really direct competitors, as the cheapest Abarth costs £5,300 more than the most expensive Mazda.
Unfortunately the 124 Spider doesn't have a longer equipment list to compensate.
Yes, 17” alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential and Bilstein dampers come as standard, plus the interior features Bluetooth, a DAB radio, a Bose audio system and cruise control. All of those items are fitted to the MX-5 Sport Recaro too, but it also boasts several other trinkets including satellite navigation.
| MX-5 2.0i SE-L | £20,495 |
| MX-5 2.0i SE-L Nav | £21,095 |
| MX-5 2.0i Sport | £23,095 |
| MX-5 2.0i Sport Nav | £23,695 |
| MX-5 2.0i Sport Recaro | £24,295 |
| 124 Spider Manual | £29,565 |
| 124 Spider Automatic | £31,605 |
So deciding between these two nominal rivals is first and foremost a question of budget. If that's not a factor, then a 124 Spider is for anybody who thinks that the MX-5 won't be quick enough for them. Conversely, the Mazda clearly wins on value for money.
Related posts:
Fiat 124 Spider or Mazda MX-5?
Abarth 124 Spider unveiled
Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro limited edition
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