Abarth 124 Spider the Scorpion you've been waiting for
The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider isn't even available yet, and the folks at Abarth have already given it the Scorpion treatment.
Building on the Mazda MX-5-based car that was unveiled last year, the Abarth 124 Spider amps the car up on just about every level, with a focus on drivability.
Powered by the same turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder as non-Abarth cars, the 124 Spider makes 170 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque—the former an increase of more than 20 per cent.
According to Abarth, the electronic nannies can be turned off "to experience the perfect mechanical balance and linear engine response, the trademarks of a genuine rear-wheel drive sports car," while a mechanical limited-slip rear differential, stiffened anti-roll bars, Bilstein-made dampers and Brembo brakes brakes are fitted as standard.
Available with the choice of six-speed manual or six-speed sequential gearboxes, the tiny convertible has a top speed of 230 km/h and runs from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds, nearly a second quicker than its Mazda counterpart.
The Abarth 124 Spider is also lighter, albeit slightly, than the MX-5, tipping the scales at just 2,337 lbs. and boasting a 50/50 weight distribution to boot.
Outside, the car features unique front and rear bumpers and a swallow-tail rear spoiler, and 17-inch alloy wheels, a windshield surround and roll bars finished in Forgiato Grey.
Five body colours are available: "Turini 1975 White," "Costa Brava 1972 Red," "Isola d'Elba 1974 Blue," "Portogallo 1974 Grey" and "San Marino 1972 Black," all named in a nod to the brand's rallying history.
Manual climate controls, a four-speaker stereo, cruise control and electric folding mirrors all count as standard equipment, while a revised infotainment system with satellite navigation and a nine-speaker Bose sound system that includes dual headrest speakers and a subwoofer are available à la carte.
The car will launch in Europe in September with prices starting at €40,000—equivalent to more than $58,000 at today's exchange rate.
