1977 Fiat 124 in Barrington, Illinois

Vehicle Description

National Award Winning Fiat restoration experts--Roadster Salon is offering a superb 1977 Fiat 124 spider, just purchased from a well known collector's estate. IT IS RUST FREE WITH ONLY 41K ORIGINAL MILES! While Roadster Salon is known for their impeccable turn-key spiders, this particular car is a rare low-mile example in stunning condition.

Aside from the paint and alloy wheel upgrade, the car is completely original and unmodified. The exterior finish work is excellent, and appears to have been professional prepared. Car has been inspected by Roadster Salon's service department, and carries a limited warranty. A very lovely spider, offered at about half the price of Roadster Salon's least expensive full restorations.

For those of you who have lusted for one of our Spiders but could not justify the expense--here is an ideal opportunity to purchase a wonderful Spider that embodies the spirit of our premium offerings at a more affordable price point. This car is comparable to our "Spider Originale" model, in terms of overall condition. Ideal color combination. Customer may upgrade to our custom vintage light weight stainless chrome bumpers for an additional $2495.

Cosmetic Impressions

As mentioned, the exterior was previously re-finished in Rosso, a bright vibrant red similar to what was offered on the 83-85 version of the spider. There are no significant scratches or blemishes, and the overall impression of the paint is like new. According to the information provided by the estate, the work was done just prior to the owner passing. Chrome is excellent, with no signs of significant pitting or rust. Undercarriage is extremely clean, as car was obviously kept off the road during the winter.

The interior is in original and amazing condition for a nearly 40 year old car. A small seam that unraveled in the passener seat (as pictured) will be re-stiched prior to delivery. No cracks in dash. Door panels look terrific. Carpets are fresh, with no signs that the car ever got wet inside. No smells or mildew. Really nice overall. Grade A

Mechanical Impressions

This spider has been fully inspected by our service department, and certified by our nationally acclaimed shop foreman. Engine, transmission, brakes and suspension components have been inspected and serviced as needed. In all candor, very little work was required, as the previous owner was quite meticulous. Car is ready to be enjoyed. Our confidence in its overall mechanical condition allows us to cover this spider with our limited warranty. Grade A+

Driving Impressions

Roadster Salon is the largest and most highly acclaimed Fiat restoration company in North America. We currently have over 90 spider chassis in stock, and are well familiar with their driving characteristics. Put simply, this spider is a sweetheart. Nothing about the driving experience felt strained or worn out. Just a really nice, well maintained car.

We can't fault the previous owner's desire to change the color. The traditional red/tan combination suits this spider perfectly. We were told the original color was brown, although the quality of the paint work kept that a mystery. Lot's of thumbs up from passing motorists and gas station patrons.

During our test loop, the car performed admirably. It always ran cool--even in bumper to bumper city traffic. Braking, acceleration and handling were all in line with original performance specifications. Spiders are great fun to drive, and this example is no exception. Put the top down and go! Grade A

Market Analysis

The current market trend for all Pininfarina designed automobiles is higher--but the Fiat Spider 124 and 2000 have been particularly strong in the last 24 months. Top quality, original 77-78 vintage spiders have been moving significantly higher, with clean versions nearing the $25-30K level in various publications.

Very low mile, rust free original cars like ours are very hard to compare. There are simpy too few available to measure against it. The color change is difficult to quantify. Some experts might argue that a re-spray in the original brown might have been preferable. However, in our opinion, the decision to change the color to Ferrari Rosso, and level of paint quality make the car more marketable. Frankly, how do you criticize the choice of red and tan on an Italian convertible?