[Jack]

New spy photos of the Abarth 124 Spider gives us more detail on what we can expect from the little performance convertible. The most exciting thing to notice here is the presence of quad-exhaust pipes.

Recent reports are indicating it will use a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine set to be offered in three states of tune: 160, 190, 200+ horsepower. Judging by the exhaust, the Abarth 124 Spider could actually come with the larger 1.75-liter from the Alfa Romeo 4C. If that will be the case, the high-performance roadster should pack some serious punch under the hood. It might not get all of the 4C’s 237 hp, but a detuned version should still deliver over 200 hp.

We also know that the Abarth 124 Spider will have an optional matte black finish on the hood as a nod to the 1970s Abarth-tuned 124 Stradale homologation car.

 

[morrisg]

The sheet metal appears to be the same as the base 124 Spider, so I think we are looking at an Abarth that is a performance version of the base car. In other news sources, they point to the Abarth using a 190hp tuned version of the 1.4L turbo engine from the base 124 Spider. I would expect an LSD to put the added power to the pavement, fancier wheels and performance tires, and maybe an upgraded interior with fancy leather everything (red piping, anyone?). The four outlet exhaust may have a valve in it so that two of the outlets are straight pipes that bypass the muffler and the other two are muffler exhausts. Thus the valve can open under hard acceleration to give a freer flow and more power along with louder volume. When loafing around, the muffler keeps things quiet. Fiat used this style exhaust on some of the Fiat 500 performance models.

I would hope the Abarths get a more vivid choice of colors than the base models offer. I will make my choice after pricing is announced, but I will probably end up with a Classico that I gradually modify to please myself.

 

[spilner]

Colors and wheels should at least be some of the visual areas they target, it just won't be complete without those getting something unique. Chances are the wheels we're seeing here are just purely for testing.

 

[ItsyBitsy]

It's a test mule and we most likely won't be seeing those wheels or that top in the final production spider.

 

[spilner]

Just noticed this but either i'm seeing things or there is a light in the rear diffuser. Will be surprising if that's the case since it's not a look i'd expect from Fiat. More of a Japanese and German thing.

 

[Jack]

Could be a sensor too.

 

[RedTRex]

Looks like a threaded hole for a tow hook - very european

 

[Chas H]

Most cars have a threaded socket for a towing eye. The ND MX-5 has one in the same spot.

 

[spilner]

Looks like a threaded hole for a tow hook - very european

I rather have that, beats having to reach under.

Front end should have it too, but might be covered.