[Busta]

Today we pop the cherry, the FIAT 124 has been spied for the first time on public roads wearing production bodywork under psychedelic camo.

We're not able to glean much at this point save for a few trivialities. The nose of the 124 does seem longer then the ND Miata, but that could be a function of the black camo. The headlights seem to be recessed into the fenders, 124 may feature a more pronounced snout then the ND. The side profile seems to keep Mazda's styling. Oh and check that power dome...

Rumors continue to circulate that FIAT will opt to use their own 1.4T of Abrath fame, likely coupled to a 6MT with the option for DCT. Japanese sheet metal with Italian internals, I swear that math is backwards... We're sure to see more shortly, stay tuned.

 

[WMBL]

I'm liking that dual exhaust!!!

Japanese sheet metal with Italian internals, I swear that math is backwards... We're sure to see more shortly, stay tuned.

LOL

 

[Busta]

I'm liking that dual exhaust!!!

LOL

ahaha cheers, I'm feeling the same about the pipes. For all the badness that FCA stumbles into the one thing they absolutely nail everysingle time is the exhaust note. I'm sure it doesn't hurt having Ferrari on speed dial for a quick sound check

 

[WMBL]

It looks to me that there are raised quarter panels underneath that camouflage, which harken back to the original Fiat 124.


Something like this:

 

[WMBL]

Here is how Automotive News is reading the tea leaves:


http://www.autonews.com/article/201...s-show-hints-itll-be-more-than-rebadged-Miata

FCA officials have promised that the 124 Spider -- a nameplate that dates back to 1966 -- won’t simply be a rebadged Miata.


The spy photos show what appear to be larger, more expressive headlights and taillights than those used on the Miata, which is launching this summer. But not much else is visible under the heavily disguised test cars.


The car is expected to use Fiat powertrains, mostly likely a 1.4-liter engine and six-speed manual transmission. Such a small-displacement powertrain could give the Fiat 124 decent performance because the car has a base curb weight of just over 2,300 pounds.

 

[spilner]

Looking into the details, i'm liking how the headlights are seeming to shape up, with the high and low beams running diagonally... possible to help create an aggressive front end.

 

[Busta]

It looks to me that there are raised quarter panels underneath that camouflage, which harken back to the original Fiat 124.


Something like this:

Noticed that as well, wondering if they're going with a wider track (not likely due to assembly constraints) or maybe just a wider tire, which would give us hope that the 124 will carry more power then the Miata. Something kissing 200 would be pleasant...

 

[WCF]

This is looking good. I like the idea of the bonnet scoop and a longer front end. If the rear quarters are raised like that too it should look very competitive against the MX-5.