Italian Vert: 1978 Fiat 124 Spider
When you think of classic affordable roadsters, you’ll first think of the ubiquitous Mazda MX-5 Miata…but it is far too new and common, I’m talking about cars like the MGB, Alfa-Romeo Spider, Datsun Fairlady/Sports 1600…but there’s another option in this genre that is often overlooked, still fairly plentiful, and worth consideration as a respectable alternative (if you don’t have a healthy fear of rust). We are referring to the Fiat 124 Spider, which was designed by Dutch-American legend Tom Tjaarda and built in a remarkable multiple decade production lifespan starting in 1966 and ending in 1985. The later ones have big rubber bumpers, raised ride height, and more safety weight…but they also have less rust. Find this 1978 Fiat 124 Spider offered for $8,500 in Fountain Hills, AZ via craigslist. Tip from FuelTruck.
From the seller:
1978 Fiat 124 Spider
VIN: 124CS1 0130282
condition: excellent
cylinders: 4 cylinders
drive: rwd
fuel: gas
odometer: 95000
paint color: black
size: compact
title status: clean
transmission: manual
type: convertible
2dr Spider, very well cared for original Arizona car, 95k miles, documented with records, twin overhead cams, 5 speed overdrive, fun, attention getting, many new and extra parts. Hagerty Vehicle Report available.
Like equity trades considered for: Donzi Classic, Coachmen Freedom Express 192rbs, Kubota Backhoe, Ducati
See a better way to drive something Italian? tips@dailyturismo.com
The Fiat 124 has a warm place in my heart. I think this model was the first ever tip I submitted, back when BaT was small, Motoring con Brio was a thing, and you could buy a mint 124 for like, $3k. I miss those days.
Man I miss Motoring Con Brio. We should badger him to see if we can get him to start it back up. I see him hanging out on mye28 occasionally.