, Miata, Miata. It feels like that’s all anyone ever talks about, because it can be hard not to. But there are other small, fun roadsters on the market, like the 2018 . So what if it’s based on the Miata? I have one this week. What do you want to know about it?

( Fiat Chrysler loaned me this 2018 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth for the week, and it came with a full tank of gas.)

The 124 shares the platform with the current ND Miata, but one of the big differences between the two is the engine. This one has a 1.4-liter Fiat Chrysler-sourced turbocharged inline-four, while the Miata has a 2.0-liter one without a turbo. They may have similar bones, but they’re pretty different in character and execution.

This 124, with its Abarth branding and Recaro seats, has an MSRP of $35,765.

So far, this thing is incredibly fun. It’s got a unique, crackling exhaust note to go along with its six-speed manual transmission, and it handles well. About half of the interior matches that of the current Miata, and shifting is just as smooth.

Ask and I shall answer, in the review.