I'm a long time Miata owner (since 1999) and I must admit that the new 124 catches my eye more than the newest iteration of the Miata does. I'll hang onto my 2006 for a little while longer, but I see a 124 in my future.
I had a 2000 MX 5 and got rid of it when it started nickle and dimeing me. I drove the new MX5 and liked it a lot, but after I drove the Spider, there was no comparison. I'm very happy with my Classica. Runs like a top!
It's easy to tell biased reviews, especially when they drive an automatic and condemn the quietness of the car-which is a PLUS in my opinion. It's loud enough at highway speeds, why would you want it louder, so you can't converse or listen to tunes? I get a LOT more looks from people than I did when I had my Miata. I'm very happy with the workmanship, the styling, the smooth drive, and the over-all sex appeal! So far, I haven't had the first mechanical issue. So much for historic bad press. Way to go Fiat!
Hmmm... biased how? I'm trying to determine where I condemned the quietness of the Fiat. My critique said the Fiat has more sound isolation and a milder exhaust note but I didn't call it a negative, only an observation that might be useful to buyers that want a quieter car.
Great review of a delightful little sports car. I own an NB as a weekend toy, and I can honestly admit that I finally understand the appeal of the Miata, as it's been a great way to discover some of the roads-less-traveled here in the PNW. I would imagine that the experience in the 124 would be similar to that of the MX-5. It's also nice to see you cross-posting your content, as I've always have been a fan of your work with the NYT. Oh, and if you need to explore the area for some new roads to use in your work, or to give your NA some exercise, you're more than welcome to join the local Miata club on a group drive.
Bravo, Tomaso! 👏🏻 I bought an1980 Spider 2000 back in '81. Lotsa shop time...but the Ansa free flow exhaust note made it all worthwhile. Uhh, the 19.5% car loan?...not so much Great review. I like your comments on manually rowing the gears. I mastered heel n toe and dbl clutching on that Spider. 👍🏻
I don't care about badge, simply do not like the looks of gen 3 and gen 4 Miatas, I like the gen 2 with larger headlights and sexier rear quarter panels. As such, the 124 looks prettier to me. AND it is made in Japan - the best of both worlds.
I was able to dive them back to back a month ago and paid close attention. There is some difference but it's not huge. If you're on the fence, I highly suggest driving the two to make sure you understand the dynamic.
I would like to know what OTHER cars his co-worker was driving??? I've owned a 1969 and a 1976 Spyder. Fun, but lots of " MAINTENANCE " (FixItAgainTony). I own a 1994 Miata (since new), LOVE IT. This 124 does LOOK GOOD........
is that 3rd fog light at the lower bumper. y dont US cars have rear fogs. i think if its available and customers are aware of them, they would love them
For me, the Miata devolved over the years from gorgeous to funky/awkward. This swings the styling back in the right direction. I like it, save for the Chrysler ribbed engine hood.
not sure at all but looks like your driver's door wasn't fully closed while u were driving!! btw, i think i'd opt for the miata given that the fiat has a fiat engine..
***** I used to want a brz too, but the quality (mostly of the interior) turned me off of it. I think the mx5 is a much better car in every way and they use a lot of aluminum for a mid-$20k car. I like the amount of engineering they did. I just hate a soft top, and hate how soft tops look. We're about the same age, but I have an old man's back so I want some comfort too :p
I prefer the automatic...all of my other classic VWs and hotrods have manual gearboxes for some serious driving...all I want to do in my new Fiat 124 Spider is to cruise with the top down.
This engine has the extra power that people say the miata needs. The Fiat is a second slower but the extra power written on paper will probably still make people happy. Compared to the miata this just looks plain awkward.
One person's "dated" can be another person's "classic," and this can be applied to instrument clusters. I actually like how Mazda/Fiat have managed to have the tachometer in the center of the cluster, where it should be for a sports car.
Driven Car Reviews Hey Tom. I just have a problem with rebadged cars, especially the Toyota gt86. I know ALOT of car manufacturers share the same chassis, engines, etc, but this one just seems very lazy on the part of FIAT. That 1.4 turbo may be PC as well, but it just seems weak. Sorry.
Addnl - Maybe i also dont like how its DNA is being shared with other brands now. Whenever i travel to NZ i ALWAYS rent a 1st gen mx-5, driving through the countryside with the top down over there is ecstasy.
Don't be sorry, you're entitled to an opinion. I can see why Fiat turned to Mazda though. Great chassis and it's very expensive to develop for the small amount of cars that Fiat will move. It helps Mazda too. In short, the 124 would not have happened without sharing and it makes a better business case for the MX-5.
Ok, if you want to review a Miata then review one. Don't label this as a 124 Spider review because it isn't. The 124 is built on a MX-5 platform but is all Italian. If you really wanted to review this roadster try an Arbath. I'll tell you what, bring your Miata and I will bring my Abarth. I will smoke you on the road and parked my car will get much more attention, guaranteed.
