2017 Abarth 124 Spider Multiair 1.4L Petrol · OY17 VEM

Fuel economy for the 1.4 Multiair turbo is officially rated at around 44 mpg combined, though real-world figures for spirited driving in this sports car typically fall to 30–36 mpg — a meaningful cost given current petrol prices. Annual fuel costs for a driver covering 6,500 miles at 35 mpg would be approximately £1,400–£1,600. Road tax sits in the higher bracket for this engine (typically £190–£210 annually post-2024 changes for vehicles registered between 2017–2020), and insurance falls into group 35–38, so expect premiums of £600–£1,000 depending on driver profile and location.

Routine maintenance for the Abarth 124 Spider is more expensive than a standard Fiat 500 because of the Mazda MX-5-derived platform and the Abarth-specific suspension and brake components. An annual service with oil and filter change typically costs £250–£350 at a specialist, and the major service interval items (spark plugs, air filter, brake fluid) add further cost every two years. Cambelt replacement is not required on this Multiair engine (it uses a timing chain), which is a positive, but the chain itself can stretch with age, so listen for any rattle on cold start.

Estimated annual running costs total £2,400–£2,900, factoring in fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance. This is considerably higher than the average for similarly sized petrol convertibles, largely because of the Abarth performance branding and insurance grouping.

Begin with a close inspection of the brake system: the 2026 MOT recorded 75% wear on both front and rear pads, so verify pad thickness yourself and check the discs for scoring or lipping. With a turbocharged 1.4 Multiair engine, listen carefully on cold start for any timing chain rattle that persists beyond a second or two — this is a known issue on higher-mileage examples. Inspect the underside for any oil leaks around the turbo and oil filter housing, which are common on this engine. Check the coolant level and look for any signs of mixing with oil.

Examine all four tyres carefully for cuts, cracking, and uneven wear. The 2025 MOT failure flagged cuts deep enough to reach the ply or cords on both front tyres, which is more serious than typical kerb damage — it can indicate driving over debris at speed or prolonged use of damaged tyres. The 2024 advisory noted both front tyres were worn on the edge, suggesting possible tracking misalignment; a four-wheel alignment check is worth budgeting for. Check the alloy wheels for kerb damage, which is common on sporty convertibles.

Test the retractable hard-top mechanism fully — operate it several times and watch for any hesitation, unusual noises, or warning lights. Verify that the roof seals are intact and free from perishing, as replacement is costly. Check that both front position lamps illuminate correctly (the 2026 failure flagged both sides) and inspect the headlamp units for condensation. Finally, examine the exhaust for any blue smoke on start-up or under hard acceleration, which would indicate turbo or piston ring wear on this high-revving engine.