Mazda MX-5

There are cars that are an institution in themselves. Two-seater rear-wheel drive roadsters were invented by the British, but it was the Japanese who perfected the concept with the launch of the Mazda MX-5. A small sports car that has conquered the market to become a historic model. In other countries it is known as Miata.

The commercial life of the MX-5 starts in 1989 with the presentation of its first generation (NA). Short wheelbase, two seats, front engine, automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive. The most classic and pure way of representing a convertible sports car. Its excellent handling and its affordable price were a revolution that even today is still alive and well.

With over a million units sold worldwide, the Mazda MX-5 reaches its current generation (ND) in the year 2018. As always shown with its inseparable manual soft top, but also offered for the first time a targa-like solution with the MX-5 RF (Retractable Fastback). That fourth generation is still in force today and no major changes are expected for the coming years.

Technical characteristics of the Mazda MX-5

For the first time in history, Mazda has a partner to carry out the development of the MX-5. The Union of FIAT and the Japanese manufacturer specifies the creation of two twinned models supported on the same platform. A state-of-the-art lightweight structure that is also used by the FIAT 124 Spiders, and for its spicier variant, the Abarth 124 Spider.

Thanks to this new platform, the Mazda MX-5 reduces its dimensions and weight compared to the previous generation. Outwardly it remains at levels that classify it in segment A. 3,91 meters long, 1,73 meters wide and 1,22 meters high. To these dimensions must be added a wheelbase of 2,31 meters and a weight of just 1.071 kilograms for the roadster and 1.147 kilograms for the RF.

Such tight measures reduce capacity to a maximum of two passengers. A two-seater where passengers over 1.90 meters tall will have problems entering. As far as load capacity is concerned, the Mazda MX-5 announces a minimum volume of 130 liters for the canvas roof model, and 127 liters for the targa. Very restrained measures that are in accordance with the philosophy that it transmits.

Mechanical range and Mazda MX-5 gearboxes

Sportsmanship can be expressed in many different formats. You don't need huge power figures to make a car sporty and fun. Weight makes a difference in the Mazda MX-5, and for this reason it has always stood out as one of the best sports cars in the world. Its mechanical range is reduced and moderate power. Two petrol versions without electrified solutions of any kind.

The range starts with 132 horsepower Skyactiv-G. It is a naturally aspirated four-cylinder block with a displacement of 1.496 cubic centimeters. develop 132 horsepower at 7.000 revolutions and a maximum torque of 152 Nm at 4.000 revolutions. From 0 to 100 in 8,3 seconds and a top speed of 204 km/h. It's always mated to a six-speed manual transmission that sends all of the engine's power to the rear axle.

The top of the range is 184 horsepower Skyactiv-G (the only option for the RF). In this case, an atmospheric four-cylinder block with 1.998 cubic centimeters that develops 184 horsepower at 7.000 rpm and 205 Nm of torque at 4.000 rpm. From 0 to 100 km/h in 6,5 seconds and a top speed of 219 km/h. A six-speed manual gearbox is fitted, but a six-speed torque converter-type automatic transmission can be optionally fitted.

Equipment of the Mazda MX-5

The "Miata" philosophy implies getting rid of the modern concept of interiors, the classic: less is more. From the inside out, the Mazda MX-5 shows off a spartan cabin in presentation and elements. The small space does not allow you to enjoy great luxuries, but it has everything you need. The quality feel is average, but the durability is high as can be seen in the older units.

As usual in the Japanese house, the MX-5 distributes its equipment in a staggered range on several levels. From lowest to highest endowment we find: Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line, Kazari, Kizuna and Homura. The aesthetic changes between one and the other are minimal, just a handful of details here and there allow us to find out the unit in question. The levels focus mainly on technology and finishes.

The higher versions of the range can offer materials such as Nappa leather or technologies such as Bose sound equipment. In addition to this, as far as equipment is concerned, it is worth mentioning: LED headlights, 17-inch BBS wheels, parking camera, heated seats, air conditioning, multimedia system with a 7-inch screen, connectivity for mobile devices, browser and a Discreet team of driving assistants.

Mazda MX-5 video test

The Mazda MX-5 according to Euro NCAP

As always, Euro NCAP is in charge of analyzing the safety of European cars by subjecting them to its demanding crash tests. After the safety analysis, the Mazda MX-5 receives four out of five possible stars. A lost star given the current importance of driving assistants. The results by sections are as follows: 8,4 in adult passenger protection, 8 in child passenger protection, 9,3 in pedestrian vulnerability and 6,4 in driving assistants. These values ​​are still valid today.

The Mazda MX-5 of Km 0 and second hand

Although sales of the Mazda MX-5 are far from successful, it is a low production car, alternative sales channels are very active. The few units present are highly valued, and the older the better. NA and NB models are gaining value over the years. It is difficult to give it a depreciation value because over the years the MX-5 does not lose much value, we can even see how it gains.

If we take a look at the used and second-hand market, we see that the cheapest units correspond to the second generation (1998 – 2005). Prices start in amounts close to 4.500 euros for models with more than 150.000 accumulated kilometers. An NA can be offered from 8.000 euros. As for the Km 0 market, the offer is much smaller and obviously focused on the latest generation units. Prices start at 31.900 euros for an MX-5 with a canvas top, Zenith finish and a 184-horsepower engine.

Rivals of the Mazda MX-5

Despite being on the market for so many years, few manufacturers have dared to stand up to the almighty Mazda MX-5. The list of rivals is so short that it could only focus on its Italian cousin, the FIAT 124 Spider. In the market we can find similar solutions, but at a much higher price and with not as much roadster essence as the Japanese. Those models are: A, Lotus Elise, BMW Z4, MINI Convertible y BMW 2 Series Convertible. If we look at hardtop sports cars, we can also add the Nissan 370 Z, Subaru BRZ and the newest Toyota GR86. Like the "Miata", none.

Highlight

• Driving
• Skyactiv-G 2.0 Features
• Gearbox

To improve

• Interior space
• Some interior plastics
• Trunk

Mazda MX-5 prices

No other sports car is capable of transmitting what the "Miata" transmits for the price of the "Miata". The starting price of the Mazda MX-5 is 28.640 euros, without offers or promotions. That value corresponds to a model with a canvas top, 132-horsepower Skyactiv-G mechanics and Origin finish. The most expensive of the whole family is the MX-5 RF Zenith with the 184-horsepower Skyactiv-G engine and six-speed automatic gearbox. It is offered from a starting price of 40.250 euros, without offers or promotions.

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