New here, but not to the brand

[seventy1]

Hello forum! My first Fiat experience was a 850 Spider borrowed from a friend of my father's about 35 years ago. It was slow, but had character and was a ton of fun. Also spent a lot of time with a friend's 128 Sport in high school. Then I bought a used '77 X1/9 in college that I kept for about 25 years. Great car, great memories - drove it from New Orleans to San Miguel DeAllende MX one summer with a college buddy. You'd think we were in a Ferrari withthe crowds that would gather around the car. That one also took me to several local AutoX championships which led to more serious addictions. Bought a '74 X1/9 GP car that I ran in local road racing then Nationals including Runoffs. I've shed the X1/9s, but now have a hankering for a street Spider that I can use with the family. Leaning strongly towards an early Fiat Spider, but am also looking at Alfa's. This looks like an excellent forum and I'm sure I'll be learning much from you all to help make an informed purchase. Thanks in advance!

[baltobernie]

Hello and welcome. You'll find lots of folks here who've had Fiats earlier in their lives, and are re-discovering the character and charm of these (and other) vintage automobiles. While I love my '73, the car of my dreams is a boat-tail Alfa. But the popularity (and price) of them has skyrocketed over the last ten years. Fiat spiders still haven't moved upwards much in price, some recent ridiculous asking prices notwithstanding. So I think you'll find the 124 Spider to be a great value, with terrific parts availability and affordable prices.

There are several threads on "early vs. late" advantages and disadvantages to help you decide. Also a very active Fiat/Lancia owners group in Michigan. Good Luck!

[mdrburchette]

Looks like you've been around Fiats for a good while. Welcome to the site. Your choice of an early Spider is a great idea. Don't let those 82 owners sway you!