New Abarth 124 Spider vs Audi TT Roadster

Our verdict

It soon becomes clear that this is an easy victory for the Audi TT. Despite its sporty appearance, it’s comfortable over long distances, has a more appealing and spacious interior and handles more sweetly. The 124 has plenty of appeal thanks to eye-catching looks and nippier acceleration. However, its cramped interior feels too cheap to justify the £30,000 asking price, and the 124 doesn’t handle as well as we’d hoped. Poor cruising refinement and pricey running costs seal its fate.

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1st – Audi TT Roadster

For Good ride and handling balance; spacious interior; lower running costs

Against Shallow boot; not quite as fast; long-throw gearbox

Verdict Great fun to drive and genuinely usable every day

Rated 5 out of 5

Read our full Audi TT Roadster review

Find a great Audi TT Roadster deal

2nd – Abarth 124 Spider

For Rapid acceleration; head-turning looks; gearbox fun to use

Against Cramped; expensive to run; interior finish; imprecise handling

Verdict Enjoyable on the right road but flawed in several areas

Rated 3 out of 5

Read our full Abarth 124 Spider review

Find a great Abarth 124 Spider deal

Also consider;

Specifications: Abarth 124 Spider 1.4 Turbo MultiAir Heritage Look

Engine size 1368cc, 4cyl, turbo, petrol

List price £29,620

Target Price £28,805

Power 168bhp @ 5500rpm

Torque 184lb ft @ 2500rpm

0-60mph 6.6sec

Top speed 144mph

Gov't fuel economy 44.1mpg

CO2 emissions 148g/km

Specifications: Audi TT Roadster 1.8 TFSI Sport

Engine size 1798cc, 4cyl, turbo, petrol

List price £30,250

Target Price £27,651

Power 178bhp @ 5100-6200rpm

Torque 184lb ft @ 1250-5000rpm

0-60mph 7.0sec

Top speed 147mph

True MPG 39.8mpg

Gov't fuel economy 46.3mpg

CO2 emissions 106g/km

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