2017 Fiat 124 Spider vs 2017 Mazda MX-5
Posted on July 30, 2020
When you are looking for a fun, sporty roadster there are quite a few choices across all price ranges on the market these days. In this blog, the experts at North York Chrysler thought it would be helpful to compare two of the most popular, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider and the 2017 Mazda MX-5. While it is true that we are a proud Fiat dealer, we always try to be fair when judging the competition.
2017 Mazda MX-5
The 2017 Mazda MX-5 is the latest version of the once popular Miata. This two-seat convertible sports car is available in both hard and soft-top as well as three trims: the GS GF, and GX (soft-top only.) On most levels, you can get a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine that produces 155 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 148 lb.-ft. of torque at 4600 rpm. A SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission, power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, and rack-and-pinion steering also come standard. As far as safety, the 2017 Mazda MX-5 is equipped with dynamic stability control, dual front and side air bags, and side-impact door beams. You also get an AM/FM radio CD player with six speakers and MP3 functionality. Finally, you can expect 8.8 L/100 km city and 6.9 L/100 km highway in fuel efficiency.*
2017 Fiat 124 Spider
While the MX-5 is a continuation of a cult-favorite, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is the rebirth of a legend. Its classic Italian design harkens back to the first 124's that debuted in 1966 and took the world by storm. The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is available in three trim levels, Classica, Lusso, and Abarth all of which have their own unique wheel design. The thing that separates this two-seat convertible sports car from the competitors is the Class-Exclusive 1.4-liter SOHC MultiAir 16V Turbo I-4 engine that delivers up to 164 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 184 lb.-ft. of torque at 2500 rpm. Drivers will stay in full control thanks to the six-speed manual transmission and the available six-speed AISIN automatic transmission. Most trims come with an impressive touring suspension or a performance-tuned suspension with sport mode selector for the smoothest ride possible. The four-wheel antilock disc brakes, dual-stage front and supplemental seat-mounted side airbags, enhanced accident response system, and ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera will keep you and your passenger safe. Because the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is a new take on a classic, you shouldn't be surprised that it is loaded with comfort and technology features include:
- Bifunctional projector halogen headlamps with time-off delay and daytime running lamps (DRLs)
- Electronic vehicle information centre
- Available BOSE Premium Sound System with 9 speakers including dual Bluetooth headrest speakers with SiriusXM Satellite Radio
- Optional sport leather-faced seats heated sport seats with leather bolsters and microfibre insert
Conclusion
While both of these sporty convertibles seem enjoyable to drive, we truly feel that the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is the better vehicle. It has a more powerful engine, is more responsive to the driver, and offers a higher level of luxury. On top of all of that, it just looks better inside and out. To judge for yourself, please contact North York Chrysler to schedule a test-drive a new or pre-owned Fiat 124 Spider.