Getting to Grips with the 124 Spider

The Abarth range currently on offer is unique for sure. The 595 range is extensive with many models on offer, meaning there is one for everyone. Taking over the original Fiat 500 chassis, the 595 adds a sporty and aggressive flare to the successful and popular daily driver. Adding an extended lip, swanky alloys and a turbo into the mix, the 595 makes for a semi-practical, noisy and fun drive. No wonder why it is the most popular Abarth on offer.

Then comes the interesting, slightly rarer and attractive 124 Spider. The 124, based on the Fiat 124 chassis, adds a similar flare with the 595 does for the 500. Adding Abarth leather seats, the choice of two noisy exhausts and upgraded power, this car is very special. I have found they are rarely seen driving on the roads and relatively rare to come across at your local Abarth Owners Club meeting. The 595's will heavily outnumber this car. The 124 however offers its own unique specialities which the 595 can't. Whilst you lose out on that space in the rear hatch, you get a two seater coupe which makes the perfect summer cruiser.

The fact the roof is retractable is more than enough reason to choose the 124 Spider as your go to summer time delight. It is super easy to retract, so easy you don't even need to get out of your own seat. This means if the heavens do decide to open, you can quickly shelter yourself and continue your journey.

The car comes with the infotainment screen which comes in the original 124, meaning you have access to bluetooth calls & media usage as well as NAV and information about your 124. This means you have everything at the tip of your fingers.

We can't forget the best feature of owning any Abarth within their line-up. The sound. Each Abarth will be notorious for its tasteful burble as it chugs along down the road. The benefit of the 124 is that you can retract the roof to allow yourself a front row seat to the event. Listening to the sound of that exhaust whilst you shift through gears, whether you opt for the automatic or manual gearbox, is an experience you can only truly feel in an Abarth. A true Italian experience.