Fiat Spider or Alfa Spider ??
Discussion
Hi all, was just wondering. I am thinking of moving on to my next classic, and not sure if I should look for a Fiat 124 Spider or a Alfa Romeo spider. I would love to hear from anyone who's got one or general advice and experience. I will never be rich in the near future so it needs to be cheap to repair and buy parts. Thanks to anyone who can help. Cheers Jimmy.
Both are expensive to repair due to rust and expensive body panels. Slightly easier to get bits for the Alfa spider than a Fiat spider.
If I was looking for a relatively cheap to maintain classic, I'd be looking at something British I'm afraid. At least you can get the bits at a decent price - think MG B/C/V8, Triumph TR 4/5/6, Stag, Spitfire, Lotus Elan sort of thing. There's a reason they're relatively common - they're easier to keep on the roads.
If I was looking for a relatively cheap to maintain classic, I'd be looking at something British I'm afraid. At least you can get the bits at a decent price - think MG B/C/V8, Triumph TR 4/5/6, Stag, Spitfire, Lotus Elan sort of thing. There's a reason they're relatively common - they're easier to keep on the roads.
i've had a series two (kamm tail) alfa spider for 12 years and found parts availability to be suprisingly good, i beleive parts for the fiat are scarcer. as alfapint says the body work is the real potential money pit with both due to their tendency to rust. find an alfa with a good body, keep it away from salty roads, use it as much as possible to avoid mechanical maladies and enjoy - they're a great car.
to get an idea of parts costs have a look at websites for Clasicalfa, Alfaholics and EB Spares
to get an idea of parts costs have a look at websites for Clasicalfa, Alfaholics and EB Spares
Edited by ritmo on Wednesday 13th April 20:50
Yep, what everyones said already. Most Fiats will be LHD. DTR are good people to talk to about them. Not many around. Lots more choice with an Alfa and parts are very available. I had one and didn't find repair costs high although expect regular rust and electric problems. S3 (mid 80's) is your cheapest route. Parts availability and support network is fantastic.
You'll love either, worth the effort!
You'll love either, worth the effort!
I've had a Fiat Spider.
Positives: arguably a prettier car than the Alfa, Lampredi twin-cam is at least equal to the Alfa twin-cam, unusual - you will rarely see another, 2+2 seating - rear seats are *just* about usable for short distances, mechanical parts are usually easy to find. Cheaper than an equivalent Alfa.
Negatives: Body panels / repair panels are hugely expensive - 600 quid for a front wing, for example - and you're likely to need them at some point. Very poor used parts availability in the UK. Probably not quite as sharp to drive as a nice Alfa.
Positives: arguably a prettier car than the Alfa, Lampredi twin-cam is at least equal to the Alfa twin-cam, unusual - you will rarely see another, 2+2 seating - rear seats are *just* about usable for short distances, mechanical parts are usually easy to find. Cheaper than an equivalent Alfa.
Negatives: Body panels / repair panels are hugely expensive - 600 quid for a front wing, for example - and you're likely to need them at some point. Very poor used parts availability in the UK. Probably not quite as sharp to drive as a nice Alfa.
Go for the Alfa.
There are plenty of rust free ones around. Many have had sympathetic owners and have been restored by now. They drive beautifully, there are plenty of parts specialists around and experts to work on them. Surprisingly robust to. I often use my coupe as an everyday car year round.
Duetto's and 1750 boat tails are expensive and panels are pricey. Go for a well-loved S2 (Better brakes, hood design). Prices are said to be firming again, so now might be a good time.
Plus the steering wheel's in the proper place.
And let's have no more of this Fiat nonsense.
There are plenty of rust free ones around. Many have had sympathetic owners and have been restored by now. They drive beautifully, there are plenty of parts specialists around and experts to work on them. Surprisingly robust to. I often use my coupe as an everyday car year round.
Duetto's and 1750 boat tails are expensive and panels are pricey. Go for a well-loved S2 (Better brakes, hood design). Prices are said to be firming again, so now might be a good time.
Plus the steering wheel's in the proper place.
And let's have no more of this Fiat nonsense.
Gassing Station | Classic Cars and Yesterday's Heroes | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff