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All Torque! |
by Murph |
Archive Page
The Mazda MX-famous 5 |
| Who would have thought that when the Mazda MX-5 was launched ten years ago it would revive the roadster market that was once the domain of such classic marques as MG and Triumph? To celebrate it's success and supremacy in the British sales charts, Mazda recently launched a 10th Anniversary limited edition, which is almost identical to the standard model. Just as they did with the British motorbike industry, the Japanese saw opportunity staring them in the face, a market need waiting to be satisfied. Mazda seized the opportunity and produced a roadster that would see it enjoy success across the globe. |
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The MX-5 was born! The launch of this car was instrumental in prompting manufacturers such as MG, BMW and more recently Lotus, to produce new, exciting and fashionable soft-top sports cars.
The new MX-5 is an enhancement of the classic original. Although much of the body metal has changed it is hard to spot the difference. The most significant change is the deletion of the "pop-up" headlamps. The new model has conventional clear headlamps. This is a requirement to satisfy tough European and American crash impact regulations. The designers at Mazda have retained the simple but effective design. The flowing lines have helped in the creation of this beauty. The bonnet has changed shape with a muscular bulge in the centre. Subtle changes at the rear include redesigned light clusters and a new shaped boot lid, which has a hump to house a high visibility brake light. The chrome door handles have been binned and replaced with body colour ones. Overall this is a stylish roadster with a fun loving character. The appeal of the MX-5 for enthusiasts, is its front engined, rear wheel drive layout. A 50/50 weight distribution contributes to a smooth and sure-footed handling package. Revised wishbone suspension together with balanced steering enables the driver to be absorbed in an effortless drive. That's not to say that the MX-5 doesn't provoke enjoyment. The assertive driver will revel in a wonderful driving experience. |
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The 1.8-litre engine produces 138bhp. That's enough to shoot the MX-5 from 0 to 62mph in 7.4 seconds. Keeping the throttle open produces a sporty engine tune that is an important ingredient for this type of
car. Maximum speed is 123mph, but it's at lower speeds that the crisp engine impresses. From as low as
2000rpm the engine pulls hard giving 120lb/ft of torque at 4500rpm. The silky smooth five-speed transmission (or 6 speed in the 10th anniversary model) facilitates maximum use of the available power.
Simplistic designs associated with roadsters of a bygone era have also been brought into the cabin. Finished in black plastic, |
the dash is not crammed with toys. The instruments are clear and easily visible through the three spoke sports steering wheel. Switches and controls are well placed and within easy reach.
One feature, which could have been left behind in the old MX-5, is the cheap looking digital clock. It looks so out of place in an otherwise well-made interior. Seating is comfortable but larger occupants may suffer from lack of bum room on the small cushions, while legroom is at a premium also. The driving position
is excellent. Wind noise is minimised with the use of a wind deflector built into the top of the windscreen
frame. Driving topless is not as noisy as you would expect. (Ooer - Ed)
This is a well-mannered and likeable car, offering optimum entertainment and enjoyment. The 1.6 version is available from �15,520 with the range topping 1.8s available for �18,775. I would put money on this smart roadster being around for another ten years. |
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