Calling all fans of classic Italian design with a hint of Japanese engineering under the hood, this is the story of two Fiats that ruled the road in their era: the drop-top 124 Sport Spider and its often-overlooked brother, the 124 Sport Coupe.
While the Spider basked in the limelight with its retro-inspired curves and breezy personality, the Coupe carved out a unique space as a practical yet undeniably stylish sports car. Produced from the 1960s to the 1980s, these Fiats shared more than just their Italian heritage.
The Coupe, also finding a home under the SEAT marque, offered a versatile 2+2 seating arrangement within a sleek notchback design. Interestingly, it outsold its drop-top counterpart, proving that practicality didn’t have to come at the expense of head-turning looks. Both cars boasted the heart of a champion the Fiat Twin Cam four-cylinder engine, a masterpiece from ex-Ferrari engineer Aurelio Lampredi.
Sharing a platform with a humble sedan (later adapted by the Soviets into the Lada), the 124 Sport Coupe holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts, a testament to its enduring appeal. The minimalist center stack with subtle retro touches evokes a sense of bygone eras, while the inclusion of shift paddles behind the wheel speaks volumes about the car’s intended purpose to put the driver in control.
But the selection of the 2.2 turbo petrol AT8 engine with 250 horsepower hints at a deeper design philosophy at play. Italian tax regulations heavily penalize high-powered vehicles, making this engine a strategic choice that prioritizes both exhilarating performance and fiscal responsibility.
This commitment to a well-rounded driving experience extends to the available powertrains. While a hybrid variant could be introduced by leveraging the existing platform, a full-electric version would require a heavier architecture that might compromise the car’s agility and affordability.
The designers appear to have prioritized a sweet spot between driving pleasure and accessibility, aiming to create a compelling package that resonates with a broad audience. This approach suggests a car that’s not just about raw power, but about delivering a dynamic and engaging experience for every driver.
