The Turbocharged Miata Cousin You Forgot About: Inside the Fiat 124 Spider

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a legend, but for many enthusiasts, its naturally aspirated engine leaves them wanting more. Enter the Fiat 124 Spider, a car born from a unique partnership that shares the Miata's brilliant chassis but swaps in a turbocharged heart. It's the factory-built answer for those who crave low-end torque without going full aftermarket.

4-liter turbo four borrowed from the 500 Abarth, producing 160 horsepower and a punchy 184 lb-ft of torque, significantly more twist than the Miata's 155 hp and 148 lb-ft. That extra grunt makes the 124 feel effortless around town, though it does come with noticeable turbo lag. Despite the power difference, the lighter Miata actually hits 60 mph faster, in the low six-second range versus the Fiat's high six-second times.

Fiat also retuned the suspension to give the 124 its own handling character, and the longer nose and tail add a few inches to the trunk.

For those wanting more aggression, the Abarth trim adds a limited-slip differential, Bilstein dampers, optional Brembo brakes, and a sport mode that spools the turbo earlier. It also gets unique styling inside and out, including quad exhaust tips, red stitching, and Recaro seats.

On the used market, the Fiat is often a few thousand dollars cheaper than an equivalent Miata, with prices ranging from about $12,000 to $22,000 for a standard model and up to the mid-$20,000s for an Abarth. While the Miata offers a retractable hardtop and a more reliable naturally aspirated engine, the Fiat’s turbocharged character, unique looks, and lower price point make it a compelling choice for anyone who values torque and exclusivity.