Page 139 - Wayne Carini's Guide to Affordable Classics

Volumex models were easily identifiable due to their black fender extensions and three-part Speedline wheels.
four was more refined than the tractor-derived 2.0-liter pushrod engine on the Triumph TR4A that was headed out of production as the Fiat was being introduced. The same applied for the MGB’s 1.8-liter engine.
Where the early Spiders lose out is lack of grunt, particularly at the low end – at 90 horsepower, you need to take full advantage of the five-speed gearbox. Whatever Fiat engineers did to improve performance in successive model years seemed to be constantly offset by stiffer emissions requirements. While there are a host of aftermarket modifications available to give even the
Fiat 124 Sport Spider
1438 cc variant improved acceleration, those looking for more modern performance levels will want to choose the 2.0-liter variant, especially in fuel-injected form. Apart from improved driveability (and fuel economy), the fuel-injected 2.0-liter cars are easier to live with, especially when it comes to cold starts. Of course, the ideal model is the Turbo, with its surprisingly smooth boost and lack of turbo lag. Sadly, its low production numbers (as well as its high retail price) prevented it from ever getting the sales momentum it deserved.
The Spider’s five-speed gearbox is respectable by even modern standards, and adds the benefit of relaxed cruising with the
Pininfarina made several significant improvements to the Azzurra, including a revised center console (above right) as well as rack & pinion steering for the very last 1985.5 model.
Wayne Carini  Affordable Classics  137