Is a 2000 Fiat Spider different from a 124 Fiat Spider? Yes, the engine in the 2000 is fuel injected. The 124 is carbureted, the bodies were the same. The interiors and the hoods periodically got different tweaks and the collision bumpers became a feature on the later models as mandated by law. Collectors tend to favor the non-collision mandated bumpers on the earlier editions. In the final year, the Fiats displayed badging from Pinin Farina (in addition to the Pinin Farina design logo that was present on all models across all the production years, 1966-85), no longer Fiat labeled and Turbocharged engines appeared, conversions made by Fiat approved third party businesses).

It is worth noting that a company, Electric GT Company was featured on an edition of Jay Leno’s Garage. Electric GT converts cars to electric vehicles, very neatly so judging from the episode. The episode featuring the conversion, in this instance a 1980 Fiat 124 Spider, can be viewed at: CNBC JLG SE4E13 “Second Chances”.

FYI: Information on Electric GT Company can be had by contacting the company by writing: Electric GT Los Angeles Area / 9175 Eton Ave / Chatsworth, CA 92311 or calling, 619.717.6009. Their website can be found by entering electricgt.com. They work on an appointment only basis. (Note: I have no affiliation with them, I present their information on a courtesy basis only).

Shifting gears…