FIAT 124 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the FIAT 124

Unveiled in 1966, the FIAT 124 brought a wave of modernity to the family car segment, combining minimalist design with advanced engineering for its time. Developed under engineer Oscar Montabone, the 124 introduced features previously rare or unseen in its class, such as four-wheel disc brakes and a coil spring rear suspension. Its functional and spacious interior, paired with robust mechanics and accessible pricing, led to international recognition, including winning European Car of the Year in 1967. Production continued until 1974 for the saloon, while derivatives like the coupé and the Spider extended FIAT’s offer well into the 1980s. The 124 also became the basis for numerous international variants, with licensed production in countries like the Soviet Union (Lada), Spain (SEAT), Turkey (Murat/Serce), and even South Korea (Asia Motors).

Model Series Development

The FIAT 124 family evolved substantially during its production run. Beginning as a four-door saloon, the line soon expanded to include the practical 124 Familiare (estate), the stylish Sport Coupé, and the 124 Spider – each targeting a distinct clientele. The Sport Coupé leaned towards a younger, driving-oriented audience with its shortened wheelbase, more potent engines, and design input from ex-Ferrari talents Mario Boano and Aurelio Lampredi. The 124 Spider, designed by Tom Tjaarda for Pininfarina, captured attention as a roadster with Italian flair, available with a series of twin-cam engines. The Sport Spider was produced from 1966 to 1985; the coupé ended in 1975. Internationally, the 124 became the template for dozens of licensed derivatives, including the Lada range in Russia and later variants (like the Volumex) with technical or visual upgrades.

Highlights and Popularity

The FIAT 124 stood out from its contemporaries thanks to a forward-thinking blend of features: disc brakes on all four wheels, monocoque chassis for reduced weight, robust rear-wheel drive with a longitudinally-mounted engine, and a modular architecture allowing extensive variant development with little additional tooling. The high number of 124-based cars built under license worldwide speaks to its robust engineering and easy adaptability. The Spider models’ Pininfarina styling, wood-rimmed steering wheels, extensive selection of engines (1.4L to 2.0L twin-cams), and reputation for a rewarding yet compliant drive further added to the allure. Motorsport historians know the 124 Abarth Rally for its competitive achievements and technical upgrades, including lightweight materials and improved suspension.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The FIAT 124 line produced several notable special editions, particularly within the Spider range. The most technically developed was the 124 Abarth Rally (Group 4 homologation special, 1972–1975), featuring extensive use of lightweight materials, a tuned 1.8L twin-cam engine, reinforced chassis, and uprated suspension. The Volumex edition (1983) introduced a supercharged variant of the 2.0L engine, delivering up to 135 PS and, in rare cases, power steering. The 1983 Pininfarina Spider 2000 'Anniversario 50 Anni' marked 50 years of Pininfarina design with unique trim and gold paint. U.S.-specific models include the Spider America and Spidereuropa, modified for local regulations with altered bumpers, side markers, larger taillights, emissions controls, and Bosch electronic fuel injection. Production numbers, especially for Abarth Rally and Volumex variants, remain low, contributing to their desirability among specialists. Unique coachbuilt examples, such as the Vignale Eveline, occasionally surface for sale.

Engine, Performance, Transmission, Handling

The FIAT 124’s performance profile covers a broad spectrum—from modest but reliable 1.2L saloon engines to the spirited nature of the 2.0L twin-cam units in Spiders and rally versions. The saloon is known for balanced, predictable handling—thanks to its advanced suspension setup for the time and rigid, lightweight chassis. Clutch and gearbox action is generally regarded as positive, with five-speed options available in most sporty variants. Braking performance, a standout even when new, remains competitive among period rivals due to all-round disc brakes. The Spider is celebrated for its fast, communicative steering and sporty road manners, blending comfort with the kind of directness expected from classic rear-wheel-drive Italian cars. Motorsport versions (Abarth Rally) brought genuine circuit credibility—with output up to 128 PS and additional chassis modifications. - FIAT 124 Sport Spider: 1438–1995 cc, up to 135 PS (Volumex), rear-wheel drive, 4/5-speed manual, disc brakes, Pininfarina design.

• FIAT 124 Coupe: Three generations, manual gearbox, higher displacement twin-cam engines, Boano Lampredi design.
• FIAT 124 Saloon: 1.2L, coil spring rear, four doors, all-round discs, practical family classic.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The 124’s design direction varies significantly between variants. The saloon features restrained, squared-off forms with an eye to practicality and ease of use—a hallmark of 1960s European family cars. In contrast, the Pininfarina 124 Spider brings sweeping fender curves, a taut rear deck, and a harmonious blend of muscle and proportion that owes cues to contemporary sports models like the Corvette Rondine and Ferrari 275 GTS. Interior appointments can include wood-rimmed Nardi steering wheels, wood-veneer dashboards, Veglia-Borletti instruments, and (in later models) power windows and central locking. Upholstery ranged from practical cloth and vinyl in saloons to higher-quality leather or mock leather in spidery variants. Particular attention went into soft-top quality for Spiders, with optional hardtops also available. Detail aficionados seek out models with original wheels (Cromodora or Abarth alloys), correct US or Europe-spec lighting, and preserved period accessories.

Further Details

The FIAT 124 platform saw extensive global production, with licensed versions manufactured for decades beyond the original Italian run—most notably as the Lada (VAZ) for the Eastern Bloc, and as Turkish, Spanish, and Asian rebrands. The 124 platform’s success in motorsport, especially rallying, and its continuing strong parts supply networks and club support make it an appealing proposition for enthusiasts interested in participation events or more demanding touring activities. Restoration options are broad, including tastefully upgraded ignition, uprated suspensions, and comfort features fitted by later owners. Marketed frequently alongside other Italian classics, the 124—particularly in Spider form—remains one of the most individual and personal entries in the affordable classic sector.

Summary

The FIAT 124 range delivers Italian engineering, design, and versatility rarely matched in its price bracket. Whether searching for a classic family saloon, a coupé with mechanical pedigree, or a roadster shaped by Pininfarina, collectors and drivers benefit from abundant supply (over 85% share of FIAT listings) and strong interest (81% demand share). Thanks to its broad variant palette, robust technical basis, and ongoing parts availability, the 124 family appeals equally to purist collectors, performance enthusiasts, and those seeking a rewarding entry into the world of classic Italian motoring.