The small sports roadster market isn’t exactly the most diverse around, but two of the models available have been developed alongside each other so they can capture the hearts of driving enthusiasts, while offering two different driving experiences.
The current Mazda MX-5 and Abarth 124 are based on the same chassis, so you would expect them to match up quite well. But do they?
We take a look at both models to see which one comes out on top…
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Mazda MX-5
First brought on to the market back in 1989, the Mazda MX-5 has become an iconic model in the motoring world as it provides fun and sporty driving for not that much money at all. The latest iteration – the ND – was first released back in 2015 and with it came a sharper design and updated tech over its predecessor, which was much curvier and arguably not as handsome.
Customers have a choice of four different specifications – SE+, SE-L Nav+, Sport Nav+ and GT Sport Nav+ – while there are also a series of special edition models out on the market. You can also choose between the standard soft-top and the Retractable Fastback hard-top model – RF for short.
The MX-5 is known for being excellent fun to drive, and the latest version has continued that trend with a well-balanced chassis and performance that suits the lightweight structure of the model. Available with only two power options – 130bhp and 182bhp – the MX-5 also only comes with one transmission, a six-speed manual which is super smooth and well-suited to the model. The top speed is 136mph and you can get from 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds with the 182bhp version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine.
Equipment-wise, base level options come with an impressive spec, including LED headlights, daytime running lights, air conditioning and a leather steering wheel – but from SE-L Nav+ upwards you get a seven-inch touchscreen, cruise control, Bluetooth, climate control and black alloys. Prices start from £18,995, with top-end GT Sport Nav+ models that get all the equipment starting from £25,795.
Abarth 124
Harking back to the 124 Sport Spider that was in production from 1966 to 1985, Fiat brought back the nameplate in 2016 on this brand new model. As with most Fiats, Abarth got its hands on the 124 and developed a sportier version that kept a lot of the retro styling but added a more dynamic edge to it all.
Unlike the MX-5, the Abarth 124 only comes with two specifications – the standard 124 Spider or the 124 GT – with the latter of the two fitted with a removable carbon fibre hard-top that doesn’t fold into the back like the soft-folding roof on the standard model. Both come with sportier upgrades than the MX-5, with a special exhaust system, Brembo brakes and a mechanical limited slip differential fitted to all versions – with that final feature only available on more powerful versions of the Mazda.
Unlike the Mazda, the 124 only comes with one engine – a 1.4-litre Multiair four-cylinder unit developing 168bhp and 250Nm of torque that can be paired to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Thanks to its smaller engine, the sprint to 60mph takes 0.3 seconds longer than the MX-5, but the top speed is surprisingly higher at 144mph.
With the shared development, most of the equipment on the inside of the 124 is as you would find in the MX-5, including the seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, climate control and cockpit layout. But with Abarth’s helping hand, the 124 does feel sportier with performance suspension, a sports steering wheel and sport driving mode. Prices for the Abarth 124 start from £29,625.
Which one is best?
If you want something that looks sporty and sounds raucous, then your best bet is the Abarth 124 – as the special exhaust system and dynamic styling will be able to fulfil both needs for you. But in terms of an overall package, the Mazda MX-5 is the one to go for. You have more options in terms of style, engines and finish, while it also is much cheaper than the Abarth – even in its highest specification. The looks of the MX-5 are also much smarter and you’ll be hard pressed to find a car that puts a bigger smile on your face.
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