Abarth 124 GT 2018: 50-Unit Limited-Edition Roadster

The Abarth 124 GT represents the pinnacle of the Italian brand’s spider lineup for 2018, blending aggressive styling, turbocharged performance, and a touch of exclusivity. Limited to just 50 units in the UK, this model elevates the standard Abarth 124 with a striking carbon fibre hardtop, lighter wheels, and enhanced rigidity, making it a collector’s dream for enthusiasts seeking a more track-focused open-top experience.

Design and Exterior Highlights

At first glance, the Abarth 124 GT exudes a motorsport heritage with its low-slung profile and purposeful stance. The standout feature is the removable carbon fibre roof, weighing a mere 16kg, which not only adds a sleek, coupe-like silhouette but also contributes to improved structural stiffness for better cornering control. This lightweight lid includes a heated glass rear window that’s wider than the fabric hood on base models, enhancing rear visibility during everyday drives.

Complementing the roof are 17-inch OZ Ultraleggera alloy wheels, each shedding 4kg compared to standard rims, wrapped in high-grip tires that amplify the car’s planted feel. Available in three premium colors, the GT also boasts dusk-sensing LED headlights, rear parking sensors, and rain-sensitive wipers as standard, ensuring practicality without compromising its raw aesthetic. The overall design draws inspiration from racing prototypes, with flared arches, a prominent rear diffuser, and quad exhaust tips that hint at the performance within.

• Key exterior upgrades: Carbon fibre hardtop (removable), lightweight OZ wheels, LED lighting.
• Dimensions: Compact two-seater layout ideal for agile roadster duties.
• Weight savings: Roof and wheels reduce unsprung mass for sharper responses.

Powertrain and Performance Breakdown

Under the hood, the Abarth 124 GT retains the proven 1.4-litre turbocharged MultiAir engine from the standard 124, delivering 168bhp and strong mid-range torque. This setup propels the car from 0-62mph in under seven seconds, with real-world fuel economy reaching up to 45mpg on longer runs, thanks to efficient turbo mapping. While it lacks the high-revving nature of naturally aspirated rivals, the torque-rich delivery shines between 2,000-4,500rpm, making overtakes effortless.

Paired to a slick six-speed manual gearbox with perfectly spaced ratios and pedals optimized for heel-and-toe downshifts, the powertrain emphasizes driver engagement. In Sport mode, throttle response sharpens, and exhaust notes deepen via the tuned quad pipes, creating an intoxicating soundtrack. Top speed exceeds 160mph, but it’s the mid-range punch that defines the GT’s character on twisty B-roads.

This table highlights how the GT holds its own against the faster-accelerating MX-5, prioritizing torque over outright peak power.

Chassis Dynamics and Driving Experience

Co-developed with Mazda, the Abarth 124 GT shares the MX-5’s rear-wheel-drive platform but tunes it for firmer responses. The chassis exhibits minimal body roll, with precise steering that communicates road texture vividly. Limits of grip arrive sharply, but the car remains progressive and catchable, rewarding skilled drivers with playful oversteer.

The carbon roof’s added rigidity translates to flatter cornering and reduced scuttle shake, elevating high-speed stability. On UK roads, it devours switchbacks with glee, the lightweight construction (around 1,100kg) ensuring every input feels immediate. Ride quality is firm—bordering on harsh over potholes—but compliant enough for daily use in Sport mode. Brakes are strong and fade-free, with progressive feel ideal for trail-braking into turns.

• Handling strengths: Neutral balance, quick steering, predictable slide.
• Suspension setup: Stiffer springs and dampers for track-like poise.
• Drive modes: Auto and Sport for versatile tuning.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

The cabin is a driver-centric haven with Alcantara-trimmed seats offering excellent support during spirited runs. Analogue gauges are legible, and the infotainment system—while basic—includes sat-nav, Bluetooth, and a decent audio setup. However, space is tight: tall drivers may find headroom limited with the roof on, and boot capacity is minimal, suitable only for soft bags.

Build quality impresses with grippy materials and precise switchgear, though wind buffeting with the top down requires wind deflectors for conversation. Rear visibility improves with the glass screen, and parking aids mitigate the compact dimensions. It’s a car for pure driving joy, not long-haul comfort.

Pricing, Value, and Rivals

Priced at £33,625, the GT commands a £4,000 premium over the standard 124 Spider, justified by its exclusivity and upgrades. Yet, the revised Mazda MX-5 2.0 at £22,295 offers similar thrills, quicker acceleration, and better residuals, posing a value challenge. Other rivals like the Toyota GR86 or Alpine A110 appeal to different tastes but lack the GT’s open-top allure.

For Abarth loyalists, the limited run and Italian flair make it irresistible; casual buyers may opt for the MX-5’s refinement.

Long-Term Ownership Insights

Owners report addictive fun but note firm rides and modest storage as trade-offs. Reliability is solid, with low running costs if maintained properly—expect 30-35mpg combined. Resale values hold for low-mileage examples, potentially appreciating as a future classic. Service intervals are standard, and parts availability benefits from Mazda underpinnings.

Technology and Safety Features

Standard kit includes stability control, multiple airbags, and parking sensors. Optional Brembo brakes enhance stopping power. The simple dash avoids touchscreen overload, focusing on mechanical feedback.

Pros and Cons Summary

• Pros: Thrilling handling, unique hardtop, torquey engine, exclusivity.
• Cons: Firm ride, high price vs. rivals, limited practicality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Abarth 124 GT faster than the Mazda MX-5?

No, the MX-5 2.0 edges it in 0-62mph by a couple of tenths, but the GT’s torque gives mid-range advantage.

Can you drive the Abarth 124 GT with the roof off?

Yes, the carbon roof removes easily with screws, folding away for open-air cruising.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Real-world figures hit 45mpg on motorways, around 34mpg overall.

Is it practical for daily use?

Suitable for short commutes; tight cabin and boot limit it for families.

How many were made in the UK?

Just 50 units, enhancing its collectible status.

Verdict: Who Should Buy the Abarth 124 GT?

The 2018 Abarth 124 GT is a hardcore roadster for purists craving Italian passion in a Japanese chassis. Its dynamic prowess and limited-edition appeal outweigh value concerns for die-hard fans, though the MX-5 tempts pragmatists. If character trumps cost, this spider delivers endless grins.