Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth
Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth





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Used 124 Spider for sale
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2020 Fiat 124 Spider Review

byDan Frio
Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show).Pros
- Nimble, lively handling
- Excellent brake and steering feel
- Quick and easy-to-use convertible top
Cons
- The optional automatic transmission is a frustrating underperformer
- Cramped interior and limited cargo capacity
- Loud and rough-riding, especially on freeways
- Taller drivers have difficulty getting comfortable
What's new
- The Fiat 124 Spider is essentially unchanged for 2020
- Part of the first Fiat 124 Spider generation introduced for 2017
Like other roadsters of its era, the original Fiat 124 offered charm, style and the freedom of open-top motoring. It was also plagued with the same mechanical gremlins as its contemporaries. When it came to comfort and convenience, it was hardly a step up from bicycling.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.15 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$173/mo
124 Spider Abarth
vs
$182/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Today's 2020 Fiat 124 Spider retains its predecessor's charm and minimizes its drawbacks. Credit goes to its DNA. Under the 124's nouveau retro bodywork, it has the same underpinnings as the Mazda MX-5 Miata, although the Fiat uses its own engine, transmission and unique suspension tuning.
It's fair to say that the 124 would be better off sticking with the Miata's powertrain as well. While it's easy to understand why Fiat would want to put its own stamp on things, the reality is that the Miata's engine is more powerful and engaging when you rev it up to its redline. Mazda seems to have done a better job of suspension tuning as well — the Fiat rides more roughly.
The Miata is the better car here, and the latest Ford Mustang convertible might tempt you with its surprisingly well-rounded nature. Still, the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider, just like the classic models from the 1960s and '70s, is an undeniably fun roadster that can turn ordinary grocery runs into invigorating autocrosses.
Edmunds Expert Rating
below avg
6.8/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
The Fiat 124 Abarth is a one-trick pony. It's exceptional fun on the right road thanks to excellent handling, steering and a punchy little turbo engine that does its best work when wrung out at high revs. But beyond that, this diminutive convertible forces compromises on comfort and utility. The right buyer will love this car; most will find some other drop-top or sports car more livable.
Rated for you by America's best test team.
Performance
8.5/10
How does the 124 Spider drive? This nimble convertible is a delight on winding roads, where its small size and weight combine with excellent handling, a smooth transmission and sharp steering to make for a unique experience. The small engine lacks power, however, especially at low rpm. Our manual-transmission-equipped 124 test car covered 0-60 mph in 7.0 seconds in our tests — acceptably quick, but it's no muscle car.
While this lightweight car doesn't need a particularly robust brake system, the optional Brembo brakes feel firm and keep the car stable during hard panic stops. The Fiat shines in the twists and turns where it stays taut and flat and changes directions without hesitation.
While this lightweight car doesn't need a particularly robust brake system, the optional Brembo brakes feel firm and keep the car stable during hard panic stops. The Fiat shines in the twists and turns where it stays taut and flat and changes directions without hesitation.
Comfort
5.5/10
How comfortable is the 124 Spider? Comfort isn't the 124 Abarth's strength. The ride borders on harsh, and you can expect to feel every bump and road imperfection. Stretches of uneven freeway can start to feel like an endurance test. You'll also endure road racket since engine noise is always intrusive with the top up. The mechanical noise is fun during spirited driving, but it never goes away.
Fortunately, the climate control is up to the task of regulating the 124's interior. The system can combat even high heat but works hard to do it. Having only three vents can add frustration to driving with a passenger on hot days.
Fortunately, the climate control is up to the task of regulating the 124's interior. The system can combat even high heat but works hard to do it. Having only three vents can add frustration to driving with a passenger on hot days.
Interior
6.5/10
How’s the interior? Some buyers will value the 124's diminutive stature, but there's no getting around that such a small car forces compromises in seat adjustability. It also makes it getting in and out more difficult. The seatback must be upright for the seat to slide fully aft, so tall drivers must choose between legroom or reclining. More adjustments might be nice, but there's no space for them in the cramped space. At least the low seating position feels sporty and appropriate.
As a convertible, the 124 also has some visibility issues, with the view to the rear sides laughably poor when the top is up. Blind-spot monitoring is a helpful extra here. Fortunately, it's easy to put the top down (and back up) quickly.
As a convertible, the 124 also has some visibility issues, with the view to the rear sides laughably poor when the top is up. Blind-spot monitoring is a helpful extra here. Fortunately, it's easy to put the top down (and back up) quickly.
Technology
7.0/10
How’s the tech? The 124's infotainment system (borrowed from Mazda) is easy to use thanks to the knob-based interface. It offers the features you expect, although Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are glaring omissions. The optional navigation system is easy to use, and Bluetooth and dual USB ports offer useful smartphone integration and charging. The included voice controls do reasonably well with navigation and points-of-interest commands but are fairly limited in scope.
There are only a few optional driver aids, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and rear parking sensors. They come in handy as complements to the small side mirrors and poor visibility with the top up.
There are only a few optional driver aids, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and rear parking sensors. They come in handy as complements to the small side mirrors and poor visibility with the top up.
Storage
5.0/10
How’s the storage? You can't expect much utility from a tiny two-seat convertible, and the 124 certainly doesn't deliver much. The trunk is minuscule, with a small opening that's flat in the rear deck. Fortunately, the car is low to the ground, which also keeps liftover height low. Two soft overnight bags will fit, but don't plan on packing for much more than a weekend.
There's also not much interior storage space, just a tiny armrest box and a center console cubby large enough for a phone. The "glovebox" behind and between the seats, while big enough for a purse, is difficult to access. Other convertibles might offer more practicality, but that typically comes at the cost of size, weight and nimbleness.
There's also not much interior storage space, just a tiny armrest box and a center console cubby large enough for a phone. The "glovebox" behind and between the seats, while big enough for a purse, is difficult to access. Other convertibles might offer more practicality, but that typically comes at the cost of size, weight and nimbleness.
Fuel Economy
6.0/10
How’s the fuel economy? EPA estimates won't be reflected in the real world unless you do mostly highway driving. Power comes so high in the rev range that even keeping pace with aggressive traffic means eating into your efficiency. Over our time with our manual-equipped test car, we averaged about 24 mpg versus the EPA estimated 30 mpg combined.
Value
6.5/10
Is the 124 Spider a good value? A base Classica is reasonably priced, but a loaded-up Abarth will be harder to justify when compared to larger, more practical and more powerful convertibles around the same price. The Fiat's warranty isn't anything extraordinary compared to its rivals, although roadside assistance is good for four years and unlimited miles — a good thing.
The value question here is partially subjective since the Fiat isn't unreasonably priced for what it is. You just really have to want what it has to offer.
The value question here is partially subjective since the Fiat isn't unreasonably priced for what it is. You just really have to want what it has to offer.
Wildcard
8.5/10
We get why a buyer would choose a 124 Abarth over a Miata Club. It's a very specific sports-car experience with very specific appeal. It overachieves when it comes to fun, especially on a winding road with the rpm between 4,000 and 5,500. It's an absolute blast and definitely a driver's car.
And while the Abarth often endeared us as a growly little scrapper, it was also rough and noisy and generally an unpleasant place to be. It's a convertible in the classic sense and pretty uncompromising in pursuit of a specific sporty experience. That alone deserves praise.
And while the Abarth often endeared us as a growly little scrapper, it was also rough and noisy and generally an unpleasant place to be. It's a convertible in the classic sense and pretty uncompromising in pursuit of a specific sporty experience. That alone deserves praise.
Which 124 Spider does Edmunds recommend?
We figure most drivers considering the Fiat 124 Spider want more performance and engagement than the typical car, and for that reason we recommend the Abarth. It offers more athletic handling and upgraded brakes for a modest sum more than the midrange Lusso trim. No matter which model you choose, avoid the automatic transmission if you can. The manual is supremely better and is probably one of the easiest stick shifts to learn on, too.
2020 FIAT 124 Spider models
The 2020 Fiat 124 Spider is available in three trim levels: the relatively bare-bones Classica, the more comprehensively equipped Lusso and the aggressive Abarth. All three trims are powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine (160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque in Classica and Lusso trims, 164 hp and 184 lb-ft in Abarth trim).
Power goes to the rear wheels through either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic.
The base Classica trim comes with the essentials — such as air conditioning, a rearview camera and Bluetooth — as well as some nicer touches, such as keyless entry, push-button start and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. There are compromises, though. The steering wheel raises and lowers but doesn't telescope, for example, and the infotainment display is a tiny, little thing at just 3 inches wide.
The Lusso trim comes standard with leather, heated seats, an upgraded infotainment system with a 7-inch display, and the Technology Group features. The Fiat 124 Spider Abarth adds to the Lusso's features with a performance-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential and selectable drive modes. Boosting the Abarth's sporting bona fides are optional Brembo brakes, an upgraded exhaust system, and Recaro leather and simulated-suede sport seats.
The Lusso and the Abarth also offer a couple of option packages with features such as navigation, a Bose sound system, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, and rear parking sensors.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth.
5 star(84%)
4 star(12%)
3 star(2%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(2%)
43 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
What a head turner
Roth,11/09/2020
2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
What is great-Hands down the drive is the BEST. This car is so much fun. Rarely a day passes when I am not asked what it is. The ride is surprisingly good for such a small car and being low to the ground. The exhaust package sounds great! Occasionally you get a mini backfire and it makes me smile. Fit and finish is very good. The top operation is so simple, flawless, and quick. The … microphone is surprisingly accurate and head rest speakers are a big plus.
What is good (but could be better)-Overall the six speed is extremely smooth, occasionally downshifting to first can be difficult. Engine oil with the correct certifications can be difficult to find. Lastly the car has plenty of power, unfortunately it is not distributed evenly. So you will need more gas to get going than what you would expect. The Bose sound system is plenty loud, but the sound quality is sadly flat and the Bose system dont not have speed sensitive sound (that actually works).
What needs improvement- The technology in the car feels dated. Here are some examples: The Infotainment system and navigation can be a little slow. Key-less entry requires a physical button press on the handle, rather than simply unlocking when you grab the door. Backup camera resolution is is not great or maybe it is the screen. Lane departure system is not an option. Windows lack auto up switch. Lastly, although it is quieter than the Miata, there is a lot of noise at highway speeds.
Overall I have absolutely no regrets. I enjoy this car every single day. I have no doubt I will own this car until it falls a part.
2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $29,390
- MPG & Fuel
- 26 City / 35 Hwy / 30 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.9 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 2 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 164 hp @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 184 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 159.6 in. / Height: 48.5 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 68.5 in.
- Curb Weight: 2,477 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 4.9 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts like the 124 Spider models:
- Enhanced Accident Response System
- Cuts off fuel to the engine, unlocks doors, flashes hazard lights, and turns on interior lights in the event of an accident.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Alerts you to other vehicles that are lurking in your blind spots.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Warns you of oncoming perpendicular traffic when reversing out of a parking space or driveway.
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More about the 2020 FIAT 124 Spider
Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Overview
The Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth is offered in the following styles: Abarth 2dr Convertible (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M). The Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual.
What's a good price on a Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth?
Price comparisons for Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth trim styles:
- The Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Abarth is priced between $30,990 and$31,590 with odometer readings between 7329 and14866 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarths are available in my area?
Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth Listings and Inventory
There are currently 2 used and CPO 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarths listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $30,990 and mileage as low as 7329 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a prew-owned vehicle from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a used or CPO vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 FIAT 124 Spider Abarth for sale near you.
Can't find a used 2020 FIAT 124 Spider 124 Spider Abarth you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a used FIAT 124 Spider for sale.
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Find a used certified pre-owned FIAT 124 Spider for sale.
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Should I lease or buy a 2020 FIAT 124 Spider?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out FIAT lease specials
Check out FIAT 124 Spider lease specials
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