2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. Fiat Spider

In California, two takes on roadsters create an exciting matchup between the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. the Fiat Spider. While similar in design and style, these cars deliver vastly different drives with Mazda’s Japanese precision and Fiat’s Italian flair and turbocharged power. Although Fiat stopped production of the 124 Spider in 2020, at Capistrano Mazda, we compare the Spider and the MX-5 Miata, highlighting why the Fiat remains a tempting option for drivers wanting something more spirited than the Miata experience.

What’s New for 2025?

The 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata remains mostly unchanged except for the addition of a special 35th Anniversary edition. Despite collaborating with Mazda and sharing the Miata’s platform, Fiat discontinued the Spider in the U.S. after selling approximately 15,778 during its four-year run. It’s becoming increasingly rare, and down the road, the limited supply could boost collector appeal, creating favorable resale opportunities.

Performance and Powertrain Comparison

Both cars were produced in the same Japanese factory and share many components. The Miata’s 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder generates 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The 124 Spider’s Fiat-sourced turbocharged 1.4-liter MultiAir engine produces 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed manual transmission, with automatic options available for the Fiat and Miata Grand Touring.

Despite Fiat’s torque advantage, sprint times favor the Mazda with a 0-to-60 mph sprint time of 5.7-6.0 seconds compared to Fiat’s 6.5-7.0 seconds. The Miata has a traditional sports car feel, while the Spider prioritizes comfort, with its turbo’s midrange power making highway passing easier than the rev-happy Miata.

Handling and Driving Dynamic

These roadsters have distinct handling characteristics. The Fiat, being 5.5 inches longer and approximately 100 pounds heavier, provides a comfortable stability similar to a grand tourer. In contrast, the Miata remains sharp and responsive, reacting instantly to every change in direction. The Fiat’s cast-iron turbo engine makes its steering heavier, affecting cornering feel. A front strut tower bar stiffens the Spider’s chassis, which closes the handling gap, though most track enthusiasts still favor the Miata.

Interior and Comfort Features

Both cabins are similar, although Fiat adds Italian flair and extra length. A driver’s-side seat tilt adjustment in the Mazda enables a natural driving posture, while the Spider gains more trunk space from its longer body and has a thicker leather steering wheel wrap.

Road noise intrudes at highway speeds in both cars, although the Fiat is quieter and rides smoother on rough roads. Cloth seats come standard with optional leather on select trims. The 2025 Miata offers heated seats, perfect for chilly California mornings. If you’re leaning toward the Miata, approach our finance center or explore our online buying procedure.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2025 Miata Club and Grand Touring include an 8.8-inch screen with Mazda Connect, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa. A Bose nine-speaker system with headrest speakers and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM handles audio. The Grand Touring adds built-in navigation with real-time traffic alerts via an active Mazda Connect subscription. The Fiat features a 7-inch screen with a nine-speaker Bose audio system in higher trims. It includes Bluetooth audio streaming but not the wireless features now standard on the Mazda.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Gas mileage isn’t a sports car’s strong suit, but these roadsters might surprise you. The 2025 Miata has an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 34-35 mpg on the highway, depending on whether it has a manual or automatic transmission. Due to its lightweight construction, it’s one of the most efficient sports cars you can buy. Driving style makes a huge difference. If you push the Miata’s engine constantly, those numbers will quickly drop.

Fiat’s secret to decent mileage is that the Spider’s small turbo engine doesn’t need to work as hard during daily driving, and the low-end torque means you can cruise without constantly downshifting and revving. The manual version has an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the automatic achieves 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

Pricing and Value Proposition

Three trims are available in the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata. The entry-level Sport has a starting MSRP of $29,830, the Club starts at $33,330, and the Grand Touring starts at $35,130. The 35th Anniversary Edition, of which only 500 were produced, features Artisan Red Metallic paint with a tan nappa leather interior and starts at $36,250. If you’re considering long-term value, the Miata holds up well in the used market, too. According to the experts at iSeeCars, the 2020 Mazda MX-5 ranks as the most dependable used sports car under $25,000, with an 8.9/10 reliability score.

Used Fiat 124 Spiders can differ in value according to condition, mileage, and other factors. Current trade-in values for a 2020 124 Spider in excellent condition, such as the Urbana that had an original starting MSRP of $27,880, are now around $18,190, according to Kelley Blue Book. The Classica, originally $28,335, is now $19,210; the Abarth, originally $30,885, is now $19,946; and the Lusso, originally starting at $31,090, has a value of $17,754.

Choose Your Perfect Roadster Experience at Capistrano Mazda

Which roadster fits you best? The Fiat 124 Spider blends Italian styling, turbo excitement, and rarity, while the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata delivers polished evolution, rock-solid reliability, and huge dealer support. Nothing beats driving a car on familiar roads to understand how it performs, so visit us at Capistrano Mazda, located at 32852 Valle Road, San Juan Capistrano, California, or contact us to schedule a test-drive of the 2025 MX-5 Miata. Our team can advise you on everything from joining the Mazda family to financing options.