What is it?
The MX-5 Superlight is Mazda's little gift to itself for getting the MX-5 to the ripe old age of 20. It also showcases the future direction of the MX-5 (the stock justification for all concepts) and provides an intriguing look at what an MX-5 would look like after driving under an extremely low bridge.
Why's it here?
For the reasons we've just stated, and that's it; if Mazda is to be believed, this car will never see the light of day. That said, it's a fully functional working concept (which will be fitted with a small screen so journalists can drive it after the show) featuring a host of upgrades and dietary measures. Obviously the entire glasshouse and associated pillars have gone, but the interior's been pared back too and now includes extensive use of carbon, fibreglass and aluminium, including a set of carbon buckets. An aluminium panel stretches from the bonnet and forms a dash cowl that incorporates the rear view mirror. It also has upgraded Bilstein springs and a Mazdaspeed intake feeding cold air into the stock 124bhp petrol engine. Weight drops from 1,080kg to 995kg.
Show stopper or floor filler?
Filler, but pleasant stuff, like the jaunty mid-tempo rock number in the middle of a Coldplay album. It should be a hoot to drive (the 0-62mph sprint has dropped to an unspectacular but reasonable 8.9-seconds) because the lack of cabin and roof will aid that feeling of being close to the road. If we try it, we'll let you know.
Mark Nichol - 16 Sep 2009