Findlay dealership anticipating arrival of 2017 Fiat 124 Spider

Debuting in 1966 before its arrival in the United States two years later, the Spider recorded 175,000 sales before production ended in 1985.

The return of the 124 Spider more than 30 years later has brought a buzz of interest for the vehicle that Americans cherished, calling it “the most affordable sports car of its time,” according to Motor Trend magazine.

The all-new Fiat 124 Spider will include several features of yesteryear including side silhouette and fender surfaces, wide hexagon-shaped upper grill, double-groove imprint on the hood and horizontal tail lamps and boxy rear end.

The 124 Spider will be available in four models including the Classica, Lusso, Abarth and the limited edition 124 Spider Prima model.

The powertrain is highlighted by a 1.4-liter 160-horsepower, four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 184 pounds of torque. The package produces excellent midrange torque for passing and traffic driving.

A six-speed automatic transmission completes the performance package with excellent fuel economy of up to 25 city and 35 highway.

Key safety features include rearview camera with park assist and rear cross-path detection along with a high-strength body, front and side air bags and seat belts and Adaptive Forward Lighting System, a system intended to help drivers observe objects earlier than they otherwise would when entering a corner in darkness.

The 124 Spider also has double-wishbone front suspension, electric power assist (dual-pinion) steering, aluminum power plant frame and rear multilink suspension.

“Summer is in full effect in Las Vegas and with the arrival of the new Fiat 124 Spider and it couldn’t have come at a more perfect time,” said Internet Sales Manager Christopher Preciado. “Envision yourself putting the top down and heading towards the pool or embarking on a weekend getaway to California. I can’t wait to drive this car myself!”

Findlay Fiat Alfa Romeo General Manager John Saksa said the arrival of the 124 Spider has generated incredible response. Deposits are being accepted to reserve the vehicle.

“It’s arrivals like this one that make the car business a lot of fun,” Saksa said. “We welcome this new addition to our ever-growing Fiat family. With the price range in the mid-$25,000 range, this will make a perfect second and/or weekend car. In addition, it’s perfect for those who want to experience the Vegas sun and let their cares drift away.”

Further information regarding the 2017 Spider can be found by calling the dealership at 702-982-4888 or by visiting findlayfiat.com. The dealership is situated at 210 N. Gibson Road in the Valley Automall.

Saksa also is general manager for Findlay Cadillac in the Valley Automall. Both dealerships are part of Findlay Automotive Group founded more than 50 years ago by the late Pete Findlay, whose son, Cliff, now spearheads 28 dealerships in Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Utah and Oregon.