Fiat 124 Spider 2016 review - pictures

The Fiat 124 Spider is a great car in its own right, and the Italian manufacturer has done a fine job at creating it's own Mazda MX-5, despite a 12-month delay.

Although the Fiat 124 Spider and Mazda MX-5 share the same chassis structure, suspension and rear-wheel drive transmission, the Fiat ensures it stands out with more grown up features.

Fiat 124 Spider prices start at £19,495 for the basic entry-level Classico trim level. The mid-range Lusso and top-spec Lusso Plus cost £22,295 and £23,295 respectively.

The Fiat 124 Spider makes use of turbocharging with the 1.4-litre petrol engine, with performance figures of 138bhp, 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 135mph.

The Fiat appears to pitching the 124 Spider as a more premium roadster, taking the good points from the Mazda MX-5 and adding Italian flair.

The Fiat has an acoustic windscreen, extra sound deadening behind the dashboard and thicker rear glass, making it a more refined drive. It also feels more upmarket than the Mazda with its soft-touch plastics and tan leather seats.

There is no limited-slip differential available on the Fiat 124 Spider, although this comes as standard on the 2.0-litre MX-5. If you want a 124 with one, you can opt for the new Abarth version for an extra £10,000.