This 1980 Fiat 124 Sport Spider, located in Maine, is being considered for an exciting electric conversion. Lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, this classic Italian roadster has all the ingredients for a fantastic EV transformation.

The vehicle currently runs with its original 2.0L engine, shows 37,000 miles, and remains registered for street use. With a curb weight of around 2,300 lbs, the Spider’s lightweight chassis makes it a strong candidate for electrification while preserving the engaging driving experience these cars are known for. The owner, describes the car as being in good condition for its age, with only very minor rust.

The vision for the project is to give this classic Fiat a new electric life while maintaining the character and spirit of the car. The goal is to make the vehicle slightly more powerful than it is today, with an electric drivetrain delivering approximately 100 to 150 horsepower while keeping a balanced and enjoyable driving feel. The intention is to replace the existing transmission with the electric motor in the same location, preserving valuable space in the engine bay for battery placement. Thomas is targeting a range of around 150 to 170 miles per charge, with an expected top speed of approximately 90 mph. The car will primarily be used for highway driving and weekend leisure.

With a 2021 Tesla Model Y and a Level 2 charging station already installed at home, integrating this electric Spider into their lifestyle should be seamless. Charging time is an important factor for the project, with a preference for fast charging.

The interior will remain largely original to preserve the classic character of the car, although Thomas is open to using an LCD screen for instrumentation if it proves to be the most cost-effective solution. The focus of this phase is strictly on delivering a reliable, legally roadworthy electric vehicle. Cosmetic restoration work (including upholstery, paint, and wheels) is planned for a later stage, once the conversion itself is complete. Builders are therefore encouraged to concentrate their proposals on the EV system integration and overall drivability of the platform. 

The goal is to complete the conversion within the year. The vehicle can be shipped to a conversion shop within Maine and neighboring states if needed.