Back in December 2014, we learned that Fiat->ke30 trademarked the 124 and 124 Spider names. The news came along with a rumor that the Italians plan to revive the stylish roadster of the 1960s, using 2016 Mazda Miata underpinnings. After two months of complete silence on the matter, a new report from Auto Express, quoting a couple of unnamed company insiders, provides additional details on the modern-day 124 Spider.->ke1026
According to the report, the Italian roadster will share its chassis with the MX-5. While this information is far from surprising, the report goes on to add that the 124 Spider will feature neo-retro styling that harkens back to the original car. If this proves to be true, the new Spider may sport a large oval grille under its nose, a pair of rounded headlamps, rectangular taillights and an integrated trunk lid spoiler.
What's more, it appears the Fiat roadster will tip the scale at less than 2,200 pounds, making it slightly lighter than the MX-5 Miata, and receive a choice of "small, affordable engines." The range-topping model could receive a 200-horsepower engine to become the quickest Fiat-badged vehicle in years.
Click past the jump to read more about the future Fiat "MX-5" sports car.
Why it matters
Considering today's market needs more lightweight roadsters in the vein of the MX-5 Miata, news of a modern Fiat 124 Spider being under development (or consideration) is exciting to say the least. With less than 2,200 pounds to move around, a turbo-four engine under the hood, and neo-retro styling, the Italian roadster could shape up into a compact, featherweight sports car that harkens back to the good old days when these type of cars were more about spirited driving than convenience and luxury. Should Auto Express' pan out, we're in for a stylish roadster with lots of Italian flair and enough potential to give the entry-level Boxster a reason to sweat. Here's hoping that Fiat revives the 124 Spider as a worthy successor of the original 1966 roadster.