News

Legend of MX-5 refined a touch

Thursday 10th April 2008

There’s something about the latest Mazda MX-5 that engenders a feeling of cultural dislocation. Mazda made no secret of the fact the original MX-5, launched in February 1989, was based in philosophy on the classic British sports car and the phenomenal global success of this car tends to mask the fact this is a very Japanese car indeed.

Five basic requirements were defined to realise their concept. Firstly the car
would be as light as possible while meeting global safety requirements. Next, the cockpit would comfortably accommodate two large adults with no wasted space. The basic layout would continue with the original’s front-engine rear-wheel drive configuration with the engine positioned ahead of the driver but behind the front axle for a 50:50 front to rear weight distribution. All four wheels would be attached by wishbone or multi-link suspension systems to maximise tyre performance, road grip and dynamic stability. Finally, the chassis would provide a solid connection between the engine and the rear mounted differential to sharpen throttle response.

A 160bhp 2.0-litre engine (from £17,465) and a 125bhp 1.8-litre unit (from £15,665) shift the MX-5 a little further upmarket compared to its predecessor, as does the presence of the folding hard-top Roadster Coupe derivative, but prices are still accessible. The famously wristy short throw sports gear change has been retained. Improving a legend isn’t easy.

Fortunately, Mazda have been astute enough to refine the MX-5 where refinements were possible, but have left the essential character unchanged. More than 700,000 buyers liked the original MX-5 recipe. Expect big numbers from this successor.