Fiat 124 Spider vs. Mazda MX-5 Miata: Which Used Roadster?

The Fiat 124 Spider and the Mazda MX-5 Miata are close relatives. Both are built on the same ND-generation platform, and both came off Mazda's assembly line in Hiroshima, Japan. The big differences are under the hood and in the personality: the Fiat uses a 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder with a softer, torquier character, while the Miata uses a naturally aspirated 2.0L that loves to rev.

If you want the sharpest, most widely supported roadster, the Miata usually wins. If you want a more relaxed cruiser with Italian styling, low-end turbo punch, and something you won't see on every block in Irvine, the 124 Spider deserves a serious look. Here's how they compare as used cars.

The shared foundation

Fiat sold the 124 Spider in the U.S. for the 2017 through 2020 model years. Because Mazda built it alongside the Miata, a lot is common:

• Rear-wheel drive, front-engine layout with near-even weight distribution
• Two seats and a manual soft top that you can raise or lower from the driver's seat
• Much of the chassis, suspension layout, and interior architecture
• The same basic dimensions for the cabin, which is snug for tall drivers in both

What's different: the engine, exterior sheet metal, styling inside and out, suspension tuning, and some trim and equipment.

Engines and driving feel

The Fiat's turbo engine makes it feel effortless around town; you don't need to rev it to pull away from a light on Jeffrey Road. The Miata rewards revving and feels more precise, especially on a twisty road. Mazda also updated the Miata's engine for the 2019 model year with more power and a higher redline, which widened the gap for enthusiasts.

Neither car is "better" in the abstract. Drive both if you can, ideally on the same roads.

Fiat 124 Spider reliability and ownership

You'll find mixed opinions on "fiat 124 spider reliability," and there's no trustworthy single score to point to. What we can say with confidence:

• The chassis and many components are Mazda-engineered, which reassures many buyers.
• The engine and some parts are Fiat-specific. The 1.4L MultiAir turbo uses Fiat's own valve-control system and a turbocharger, which means maintenance like correct oil and regular changes matters. Ask for service records.
• Dealer support is thinner. Fiat's U.S. dealer presence is smaller than Mazda's. Before you buy, find out which shops near you, whether a Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram-Fiat dealer or an independent, are comfortable servicing it.
• Recalls: check the VIN at NHTSA for open campaigns. Our recall check guide explains the process.

The Miata benefits from a huge enthusiast community, broad parts availability, and many independent specialists in Southern California.

Looking at a specific example

The 2019 Fiat 124 Spider Lusso we have listed shows 50,478 miles. Lusso is the comfort-focused trim. On any 124 Spider or Miata in this mileage range, here's what to check:

1. The soft top. Raise and lower it several times. Check the fabric, rear window, and seals, and look for water stains on the carpet. The top drains can clog, so ask a mechanic to verify they're clear.
2. Clutch or transmission. If it's a manual, test clutch engagement height and listen for grinding into gears. If automatic, check for smooth, timely shifts.
3. Turbo health (Fiat). Watch for smoke on startup, listen for whistling or whining beyond normal turbo sounds, and check for oil leaks near the turbo.
4. Tires. Rear tires wear faster on rear-drive cars; look at tire age as well as tread.
5. Interior wear. Bolster wear on the seats and sun damage on the dash top are common in SoCal.

Get an independent inspection; see pre-purchase inspections in Orange County.

Which one fits your life in Orange County?

Choose the Fiat 124 Spider if:

• You mostly cruise, commute, and take weekend drives along PCH
• You like low-end torque and a quieter, more relaxed ride
• You want distinctive styling

Choose the Miata if:

• You prioritize handling and track days or canyon runs
• You want the broadest parts and specialist support
• You might want an RF retractable hardtop (Miata only)

For daily life, both have a tiny trunk, minimal cabin storage, and limited room for tall drivers. If you need to carry more than a weekend bag, a four-seat convertible like the Mustang may make more sense; see our Mustang EcoBoost convertible guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Fiat 124 Spider just a rebadged Miata?

Not quite. It shares the ND Miata's platform and was built in the same Mazda plant, but it has its own turbocharged Fiat engine, different body panels, a different interior design, and its own suspension tuning. It drives noticeably differently.

Is the Fiat 124 Spider hard to get serviced?

Routine maintenance is straightforward, and many chassis parts overlap with the Miata. Engine-specific work is best done by a shop familiar with Fiat's MultiAir turbo. Find a nearby service option before you buy.

Which is faster, the 124 Spider or the Miata?

It depends on the year and trim. The Fiat's turbo gives it more torque at low rpm, while later Miatas have more top-end power. In everyday driving, the difference is less important than how each one feels to you.

Can a tall driver fit in either car?

Both are snug. Drivers well over six feet often find headroom tight with the top up. Sit in the car with the top closed and adjust the seat fully before deciding.

Is a used roadster a good daily driver in Southern California?

It can be, given the mild weather. Just plan around the small trunk and two seats, and consider your commute; a short-wheelbase roadster can feel busy on rough stretches of freeway.

Shopping for a roadster

Both cars appear in our roundup of the best used convertibles for Southern California and in the cluster hub on the best used cars for Southern California life. Check Irvine Used Cars for current listings, and call or text (516) 835-6141 to arrange a test drive.