The Fiat 124 Spider, otherwise known as the Mazda Miata’s Italian cousin, showed its sportier side when the Abarth-tuned droptop made its debut at the Geneva auto show earlier this year. Now we have full details on the Abarth-ized 124 that we’ll get in the States. Officially called the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Elaborazione Abarth, this new model’s performance upgrades are roughly equivalent to the Miata’s Club package.
Unlike the European-spec Abarth, which has 170 horsepower, the U.S.-spec Fiat 124 Abarth doesn’t get any extra power (sadly). The 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes the same 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque as the standard 124, although the Abarth’s specially tuned exhaust should offer unique aural delights. Other upgrades include a limited-slip differential, Bilstein dampers front and rear, and an optional Brembo brake package that includes 17-inch wheels. If that equipment list sounds familiar, it’s because it is nearly identical to the Miata’s Club trim level and its extra-cost ($3400) Brembo/BBS package.
Luckily, America’s 124 Abarth doesn’t cede anything to the European version in terms of looks. It still features the same more-aggressive front fascia, matte-black hood, and larger wheels finished in gray that make it look a whole lot meaner than the cutesy standard 124. The Abarth’s interior, too, is done up with red accents everywhere, aluminum pedals, and optional Recaro s...