When it comes to affordable convertible sports cars, there aren’t that many options. As a result, competition is fierce. Enter today’s contenders, the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata and the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider. Both offer a lively driving experience for right around $30,000. But which is the best for you?
Here’s our head-to-head comparison of the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata and the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider. Take a look at how they compare below.
2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club |
vs |
2020 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth |
$30,290 |
MSRP |
$29,390 |
2.0L four-cylinder |
Engine |
1.4L turbo-four |
181 hp / 151 lb-ft |
Horsepower / Torque |
164 hp / 184 lb-ft |
6-speed manual or 6-speed auto |
Transmission |
6-speed manual |
RWD |
Drivetrain |
RWD |
26/34/29 |
Fuel Economy |
26/35/30 |
While the 2020 Miata is renowned for its handling and pinpoint driving performance, it’s also comfortable to drive in. Even with the available performance packages that stiffen up the suspension, the 2020 Miata still rides very smoothly. While the 2020 Fiat 124 Spider can keep up on the track, it can’t say the same as an everyday driver. The ride quality is somewhere between uncomfortable and harsh. The constant road noise doesn’t help matters much. Similarly, the interior quality of the 124 Spider doesn’t match up to the quality and simplicity found in the Miata.
When it comes to features, the Miata wins, hands down. Perhaps most noticeably, the Miata has standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 124 Spider doesn’t. On top of that, the Miata has an excellent standard safety suite, dubbed iActivsense. It includes low-speed forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera. The 124 Spider comes standard with a rearview camera. Yeah, that’s it.
Want to learn more about the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata? Contact Capistrano Mazda.