Spider designed for thrill-seekers
Fiat model combines Italian design, technology, safety
ANEW sports car always attracts interest among petrolheads. And just in time this month to lighten the load in your wallet is the new Fiat Abarth 124 Spider.
The Spider is targeted at a new generation of enthusiasts with its performance and technical DNA. The model combines the authentic roadster experience packed with thrills, technology and safety, with a touch of unmistakable Italian design.
Designed for thrills and performance, the Abarth 124 Spider has all the qualities needed to satisfy even the most difficult-to-please drivers.
Developed with the Abarth Racing team, the car embodies the brand’s values of performance, artisan craft and technical excellence.
This is a car designed to put a smile back on the faces of those lucky enough to drive it. So, what’s under the bonnet? A powerful, ultra-reliable 1.4 litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine with MultiAir technology provides exciting power.
It delivers 125kW (that is about 91kW per litre) and 250Nm of torque: it has a top speed of 232km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.8 seconds.
The Spider is available with a six-speed manual transmission.
And if that’s not enough, engineers have tweaked the exhaust note. The engine sound is a fundamental element of all Abarth cars. Standard equipment includes the Record Monza exhaust with dual mode system capable of modifying the path of the exhaust gas according to engine speed and generates a satisfying, deep sound.
Capitalising on lessons learnt from the Abarth racing team, the obsession for lightness drove the brand to slim down every single unnecessary gram from the car.
The weight is concentrated between the axles and the engine is installed behind the front axle to guarantee optimal agility and superior driving feel.
Sophisticated mechanics and special materials were used to contain the weight to just 1 060kg, resulting in a best-in-category weight-to-power ratio.
The suspension features double wishbone suspension on the front and a five-arm multi-link on the rear.
The set-up is calibrated to increase stability in corners and for compression braking. Steering feedback is optimised by adopting a specific sports calibration of the power steering system.
The Abarth dynamic set-up means rear-wheel traction can be fully exploited to achieve the best driving pleasure.
For exceptional dynamism, the sportscar has a standard mechanical self-locking differential which secures drive and traction in the most critical situations.
But all this comes at quite a hefty price. The Abarth 124 Spider retails for R649 900, and comes standard with a three-year 100 000km warranty and maintenance plan.
Do I hear the jingles of Santa’s sleigh?
The engine sound is a fundamental element of all Abarth cars