Author: Ray Marchica

The following comments were submitted by a customer who sent us his 1975 Fiat Spider keepsake, with tremendous sentimental value. The car arrived a bit tired, and crumbling under the weight of years of amateur tinkering. After some discussion, his goal was to make the car more reliable for stress free drives along the California coast. He also wanted to upgrade the car’s sloppy handling and attend to some sorely needed cosmetic issues.

As part of the restoration plan, our technicians upgraded his 1800cc engine to a hand built fuel injected 2.0 jewel. It was custom installed by the Roadster crew to be compatible with the lower original hood line. A complete electrical system overall was combined with a stunning interior refresh. Underneath, our proprietary rack and pinion steering system was adapted, along with suspension, braking and structural enhancements. The project was a fourteen month labor of love.

Hello Roadster Salon crew!

I have to write to say–I know it was a hard and long road with my car, and I can’t thank you enough for pulling her through. She’s an absolute joy to drive.

I’ve put about a thousand miles in within the last month. Lots of weekend driving.
What shines through since she’s back is the quality of the handling and drivetrain. The interior restoration is amazing. It’s still true it is to the original, but the fit, finish and overall quality is far superior. The interior is like I’m in a time warp smeared from 1975 to 2017 and somehow it’s all new.

Under the hood it’s showroom quality. Everything is meticulous, proper, sorted, and clean. True to the original, just like I asked. The cleanliness under the hood and organization really impresses. The engine growls, purrs and quickens my pulse. My local service shop here in CA is also impressed–lots of positive comments. They said the exhaust system is a work of art–I can see the quality and hear it too!

The Santa Cruz Mountains are quite a setting for this car. With the rack & pinion and chassis upgrades– the way the roads bob in and out of cliffs and valleys with the sea and sun here–wonderful. The handling is like a silver lining on a cloud. Then the profile of the car– how small and powerful it is, it’s almost like riding the road not driving it. And with the views here –wow!

I took her out on a symphony date in San Francisco too. Dense traffic at night in a city with crazy drivers, hills galore, distractions everywhere–and she’s as much of a dream to drive in that setting as the coast. Reliable and smooth–it really makes a difference for that sort of driving. The old carbs were temperamental, and wiring a nightmare. Now I don’t have to worry about the car, I can focus on the city. This is truly amazing work.

Thank you so much, Ray, Roberto, Rob–and everyone else that helped.
You’ve made my life better. 🙂

Cheers, CM

The tremendous success of the Lusso S2 has encouraged our engineers to take our modified designs to the next level.  Sales, Marketing and Engineering are all in lock step, agreeing that the Lusso S2 takes the existing Spider platform about as far as we realistically can without making major changes to the suspension and drive line. After spending over two years experimenting with Fiat based alternatives to the original 2.0 Lampredi engine, we decided to go in a completely different direction. Our new models will have clear differences in performance and personality.

The “Tributo” will start out as a special edition version of the Lusso S2, but will eventually become its own model. Scheduled for spring 2017, the “Tributo” will feature a restyled interior, up-market materials and an entirely new gauge/dashboard arrangement. Based on the incredible early feedback we have received, the new interior design may eventually find its way into other models as well. The exterior will feature some unique styling ques that pays tribute to famous roadsters of the past.

A second generation Ultimo is planned for the second half of 2017. While exterior styling remains unchanged, the primary difference will be underneath the sheet metal. The Ultimo S2 will be based on a 175-180 HP normally aspirated 2.0 liter crate engine, matched to a high performance 5-speed transmission. The car will also have a more robust matching rear end, improved braking and revised suspension design. Essentially, this will no longer be a Fiat Spider, but a highly modified Roadster Salon Spider built around the classic Pininfarina bodywork.

Conceptually, we intend for the Ultimo S2 to be a less brutal version of the Evoluzione, with more emphasis on luxury and touring. It should appeal to our widest range of our customers. From a performance standpoint, our goal is for the Ultimo S2 is to surpass the driving experience of the 2017 Fiat 124 in a more refined, classic package.

The long awaited Corsa-Evoluzione will follow the release of the Ultimo S2. As early photos have shown, the CE has unique bodywork that harkens Ferrari’s from the 1960’s. But make no mistake, this car aims to embarrass the hottest version of the new 124, and compete with the Alfa Romeo 4C, Porsche Boxster, Corvette and other similar offerings. The Evo will offer a turbocharged version of the 2.0 liter crate engine standard, with a 2.3 liter option. Power will be between 270-335 HP, depending on configuration. A six-speed manual and with independent rear suspension is planned, but first generation models will likely have a fortified chassis design based on the Ultimo S2. Both models will come with a 2 year/24K mile warranty.

According to Ray Marchica, Roadster Salon Director of Sales and Marketing, the company envisions a more streamlined future line-up consisting of several Fiat based models, and at least two component built Spiders. All new models will feature Roadster Salon’s proprietary technology and engineering. While they will continue to offer “original” style restorations, their focus will remain  building contemporary versions of the Spider that are modified to meet the standards and tastes of today’s sports car enthusiasts.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to restore a vintage convertible yourself? Maybe you are considering a fun project to bond with a friend or family member? Looking to save money?

For the first time in our history, Roadster Salon is now offering select chassis for sale directly to our customers. These unrestored convertibles are being sold in their original condition, just as they came in. Previously, Roadster Salon Spiders were only sold as fully restored turn-key projects. Basically, we were hoarding everything for ourselves. But now for a limited time, we are making them available to prospective buyers who wish to do all or part of the work themselves. Each of these chassis have been screened and rated. You can find them in the new DIY section of our website. There are definitely some excellent buys here, and more than a few diamonds in the rough. Who knows, maybe a potential show car may be hidden beneath the surface.

All it takes is time, patience and vision.

Since British car enthusiasts typically enjoy doing their own work, this Spring we are featuring MG and Triumph in our DIY section. There are also a few select Fiat and Alfa Spiders. Condition ranges from road worthy cars in need of cosmetics to full scale rebuilds. In some cases we can assist buyers with parts, and can always help with shipping. We consider this as a win-win for Roadster Salon and customers alike. It is a great way to broaden our market to potential buyers with limited resources, as well as hobbyists who find this type of work fun and relaxing.

Please note that the cars featured in our DIY section are only a partial list of what may be available. Our inventory is fluid, and changes from week to week. Please give us a call to discuss your areas of interest.

The popularity of Spiders with women and older drivers is on the rise. Unfortunately, the Spider’s highly resistive worm and roller steering requires much more effort to turn than a contemporary car, and hence is the source of many complaints from drivers in that segment. While Roadster Salon’s extremely popular rack and pinion option dramatically improves road feel and precision, steering effort still remains higher than on cars with boosted power steering.

The weight and inefficiency of traditional fluid based power steering units were not a solution. However, new technology incorporating variable electronic assist has made power augmentation possible. Our design is ideal because it boosts steering for parking and low speed maneuvers, but decreases boost when traveling at road speeds. This option is only available in conjunction with our proprietary rack and pinion upgrade. Please speak with you Roadster Salon project consultant for pricing.

Aside from offering upgrades for the Fiat 500 Abarth, Roadster Salon now has select used Abarth coupes for sale. In our experience, the Abarth combines practicality with high performance and solid reliability. We currently have about a dozen, very low mile 2012-2016 Abarth models in our inventory, including both coupes and convertibles. While our focus is on finding the finest quality, unmolested examples available, we also have several purchased from insurance companies. These cars previously had light damage, but have been fully repaired and certified by Roadster Salon at significant savings. Although the insurance cars have rebuilt titles, they make great transportation at a reduced price, or even potential track cars. All come with special warranty coverage. The only one who will know about the repaired damage is you.

Call and ask about our current inventory and prices.

First, to all at Roadster Salon, THANK YOU for affording me the opportunity to upgrade my previous Avanzato restoration to a full Lusso S2. The care and love you put into the project was inspiring. Roadster Salon’s dedication to excellence shows in the workmanship and attention to detail so apparent in the car. Knowing that I received the first S2 off your production line makes it feel all the more special.

The first thing I noticed when I got behind the wheel was the Lusso’s interior finish upgrades. Every surface was covered in fresh, high-end leather. The ventilation system is much improved, with new controls and relocated vents. The new system not only functions much more efficiently, but looks far better. Heat and defrost now actually work like a modern car. The entire interior fits precisely and seems more dialed in than the original spider. Seats are more padded, and the hand stitched touches on the dash, console and door panels look more Maserati than Fiat. I also appreciated the upgraded sound system, which no longer fights the wind when the top is down.

Not only does the car look beautiful, but the driving experience has also greatly improved as compared to the car’s previous configuration. Before the upgrades, I was always at least subconsciously aware that I was driving a 30+ year-old car. Even though the Avanzato restoration included many new parts, the project remained true to the original design. Consequently, it demanded to be driven with some respect for its age. Now, by contrast, the car encourages spirited driving! Like a thoroughbred horse, it wants to run! Everything about the car feels “engineered” and enhanced. Frankly the whole package makes it drive like a contemporary car.

The new suspension and brakes, the chassis bracing, lowered ride height, anti-sway bars and the new rack-and-pinion steering all work together to make the car feel solid, tight and capable. The original Spider’s worm and roller steering previously felt a bit vague and rubbery. It is now precise with great feedback, and requires much less effort than before–especially at low speed. The car goes exactly where it’s pointed, and, even in high-speed corners, line adjustments can be made with confidence. This little Spider seems to almost ignore the laws of physics!

Of course, I fully expected the handling would be better than before, considering all the improvements made. The big surprise is that, in spite of the car’s light weight, lowered ride height and low-profile tires, the ride is amazingly comfortable – no buckboard harshness or unpleasant jolts. I am also pleased with the increased horsepower versus the original configuration. Roberto is a genius with engines, and the Lusso version definitely pulls better through the mid-band and feels less constrained. The hand signature is a cool touch, and the deeper sound is just lovely.

Congratulations on this superior effort–and again, mille grazie. I’m having a blast with my little Spider Lusso S2. I’m so impressed, maybe an Ultimo or CE upgrade are in my future!

Vince B – New Jersey

With tepid response to the new Fiat 124 from the motoring press and enthusiast community, the door has opened wider than ever for resurgent interest in Roadster Salon’s developmental work with the original Fiat Spider platform.

The Spider Lusso S2 has been our most successful model, and currently has over 15 month backlog of orders. The Lusso was our first step toward building a spider of our own design. It was Roadster Salon’s direct response to customers interested in buying a vintage car with classic lines, but wanting a more contemporary driving experience and improved reliability.”

Most of our customers find the new Fiat version to be generic and uninspired when compared directly to the original. While the older version has obvious shortcomings in stock form, after driving the 2017 Fiat 124, we were more convinced than ever about the original Spider’s potential. Ultimately, for those who prefer the classic design, the upgraded Roadster Salon version can be a viable alternative to the new 124.

Email Inquiries and phone calls about Roadster Salon Spider models have increased two fold this fall. We can only attribute the strong interest to the brand awareness sparked by the introduction of the new model.  Roadster Salon currently offers five models of the Spider, from original restorations to highly modified versions.

The Annual Fiat Freak Out show this July was co-sponsored this year by Fiat North America, and set at the lovely St. John’s Seminary Resort near Detroit. In conjunction with the Chrysler Museum, Fiat featured the debut of their highly anticipated 2017 Fiat 124. Reaction to the new 124 was mixed, as the car is based on the Mazda Miata and built in Asia using a Fiat sourced engine. Still, strong planned promotion for the new model will undoubtedly increase Fiat’s brand recognition and interest for Italian convertibles in general here in the US.

Rain did not dampen the spirits of the hundreds of Fiat enthusiasts who collectively traveled thousands of miles with their beautiful examples of traditional Spiders and other Fiat and Lancia models. Once again, Roadster Salon dominated the Pininfarina Spider category, winning best in show for the second straight year we have attended. Roadster Salon plans a much larger presence at the 2017 show next year in Milwaukee, intending to debut several new models of their own—including the “Spider Tributo” and second generation Ultimo S2”.

While Roadster Salon will always be known for their faithful re-creations of original Spiders, a growing number of customers want something more. The charm and personality of the original Fiat and Pininfarina spiders are well known. The Spider’s timeless Italian design and advanced engineering has captivated the hearts of enthusiasts for a generation. But even the most ardent admirers of the Spider will grudgingly admit that the original car had some shortcomings. Although viewed as minor quibbles 30 years ago, in the context of today’s technology these quibbles have become glaring weaknesses. For traditionalists who desire a classic driving experience, updating the spider to a more contemporary standard is sacrilege. But for those who are not classic car enthusiasts in the strictest sense, but simply want a stunningly beautiful vintage convertible that drives like a newer car—a modified spider is an absolute necessity.

The challenge for Roadster Salon’s engineering team was how to build a spider that retains the spirit of the original design, while addressing the most glaring weaknesses of the car from a modernist perspective. Specifically, how do they make the car stop and go like a newer car? How can they dramatically upgrade build quality, fit and finish to today’s luxury standards? Can contemporary features like proper air conditioning/ventilation, heated seats, and other power options be integrated without radically changing the look and feel of the car?

Enter the Roadster Salon Ultimo

Earlier this year, Roadster Salon delivered their first Roadster Salon Ultimo in response to customers who demanded a more contemporary alternative to the original spider. In just a few short months, the car has already generated quite a buzz—and not just because of the audacity of its price point. The Ultimo may be fitted with one of two performance packages. Corsa, and Evoluzione. Our test car featured the 135 HP Corsa upgrade. Watch this space for a review of the upcoming Evoluzione version, in 2015. Priced at $89,995 the Ultimo is a used Fiat 500 short of $100,000. A staggering sum indeed, until you dig a little deeper.

A simple walk around the Spider Ultimo, and it is clear something special is in front of you. With a standard equipment list as long as a cross country road trip, no detail is overlooked. Convenience items like keyless entry, air conditioning, heated seats and an aluminum cup holder are immediately noticed and appreciated. The Ferrari Silverstone grey metallic exterior was over the moon beautiful, as was the custom made vintage Ferrari style fascia and chrome. But the real star here is the most beautiful interior Roadster Salon has ever created. The hand work of famed artisan Rich Pirics, virtually every surface is covered in premium, hand sewn Ferrari/Bentley leather. Carpets are the finest Wilton wool. Customers may choose between a variety of different exotic wood species, including Burled Walnut, Birdseye Maple and Sepeli Pommele veneers for their extensive real wood accents. Gages are trimmed in aircraft quality aluminum. The overall effect is highly luxurious and extremely tasteful.

Performance

While the luxurious Ultimo cosmetics were designed for a gentleman, this Spider’s personality is anything but subdued. Just turn the key, and the lusty exhaust note tells you immediately this is no ordinary spider. A blip of the throttle brings an instant smile to the driver, and knowing wink from whoever is sitting beside him. 

Under the hood is a modified 2.0 fuel injected engine, with custom cold air intake, performance internals and custom made headers/exhaust. Putting out a robust 135HP, the engine is a no- nonsense throw back to the lively European version of the Spider. Interestingly, Roadster Salon chose to avoid the temptation to use dual carburetors, and retain the reliability of fuel injection. Steering feel is improved by a Maserati sourced rack and pinion unit, teamed with Abarth brakes. The result is a huge upgrade in acceleration,handling, and stopping power.

A short ride around the block speaks volumes. The Ultimo acts like a sexy blonde, who just arrived for her date plied with a few Margaritas. You know you are going to have a good time, and might misbehave before the night is over. It doesn’t feel silly putting on a pair of expensive driving gloves when you grasp the Nardi steering wheel. It feels purposeful.

The Ultimo creates excitement with its potential. When cruising, the Ultimo is classy and understated. But when pushed on your favorite curvy road, the car jumps to life, ready for adventure. It is the perfect combination of the well mannered girl you want to bring home to Mom, and the hot babe to show off to your buddies. There’s a jewel-like feel about the Ultimo that conveys the time and care taken to build it. All the smells and sounds seem just right.

Other engineering improvements are less obvious but much appreciated. A revised electrical system makes the power windows and other options work properly without complaint. Advanced HID lighting, custom fog lamps, and LED interior bulbs illuminate the night with confidence. The cabin is much quieter than the original version with custom sound dampening material installed throughout the interior. The Ultimo’s doors open and close with weighted precision, reminiscent of a Mercedes SL. Rattles and vibrations are dramatically reduced by the stiffened chassis.

No, this is not a million dollar vintage Ferrari. It is however, about as much fun as you are likely to have with a classic car you can actually drive on a daily basis. Materials, fit and finish are superb. The performance is engaging, and much more likely to entertain the driver than a stock Fiat. The thunderous exhaust note is tuned to perfection, and intoxicating. The Ultimo also stops as well as it goes. Handling is greatly improved by the lowered Corsa suspension, beefy wheels and tires.

While the Ultimo is not inexpensive by any measure, the price seems fair considering the estimated 700 man hours it takes to build one. Remember, standard horsepower versions can be had for $20K less. Still, I am anxiously awaiting what the engineers at Roadster Salon have waiting in the wings. Next year’s “Evoluzione” version is rumored to have nearly 300 hp, power assisted steering, independent rear suspension and a six-speed transmission. Now that sounds like the spiciest meatball yet! Have a glass of cold water nearby.

All Roadster Salon Spiders, from the affordable Basso to the show stopping Ultimo, undergo hundreds of hours of tedious development and preparation. Once ready for their return to the road, I personally evaluate each car before signing off and shipping to its new owner. My Dad always felt that this final shake down period was essential if customers were going to be satisfied with their cars over the long haul. As our process improves, we find fewer and fewer issues to be resolved during this critical phase. We aim high, so in most respects, the finished Spider Restoration product is better than what the Spider was originally.

A few words of wisdom–when the car arrives don’t just turn the key and go. It is a classic car with modern updates, but it’s not a Toyota. Soak up the Italian ambiance. Smell the leather. Enjoy the wood. Adjust the chrome mirrors. For those of you who have never owned a spider before, take some time to familiarize yourself with the spider’s features. Once you feel comfortable, the romance can really begin.

We make a huge effort to attend to every detail, and restore your spider to the highest standard your budget allows. However, this does not mean that the car’s break in and future maintenance can be ignored. Since every Roadster Salon model—from Avanzato on up—has a completely rebuilt engine and many new parts, the same rules apply as taking home a brand new car from the factory. Here are some basic break-in and maintenance tips for your new Spider:

• Most Roadster Salon Spiders have Bosch fuel injection. Fuel delivery is managed by a computer, including cold start functions. It is not necessary, and can even be harmful, to depress the accelerator when first starting the car after it has been at rest. Be patient.
• The first 500 miles of driving should be undertaken with care. Do not drive at a steady speed and alternate the RPMs on the tachometer. This assures maximum engine efficiency in the future.
• Full throttle acceleration and high RMP shifting should be avoided until at least 1000 miles have been logged. Same is true for abrupt maneuvers or other types of aggressive driving.
• All our new engines burn significant amounts of oil for the first few months. Keep an eye on the dipstick and be sure proper oil levels are maintained.
• In high performance versions of the car, premium fuel should be used at all times.
• Synthetic oil is not recommended for use in our spiders. We recommend Castrol GTX 20/50 weight oil in most climates and conditions.
• If your spider is driven infrequently, keep a trickle charger on the battery and change the fluids at least once a year. Motor oil should not be left standing longer than six months.
• Rotate your tires every 5000 miles. Brake fluid every 24 months. Always check coolant levels, and flush/replace the radiator fluid every two years. Timing belt should be inspected by your local mechanic every 20K miles.
• Your paint is new too. Do not wax the car for the first six months. The paint needs to breathe and should not be sealed until it fully cures. A glaze to bring out the shine is permissible. Wash with mild, non abrasive soap. Condition the leather with Lexol every few months, more frequently in hot, dry climates.

Spiders are very communicative cars. If they are unhappy, or something is amiss—they will let you know. Don’t ignore the conversation. Always keep a watchful eye on your temperature gauge, and your ears tuned to any sounds that don’t seem to belong–simple advice for many years of driving pleasure.