|
From YourSITE.com Opinions & Editorials
Sixteen years ago, Mazda surprised the automotive world with the introduction of the MX-5 Miata at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show. The compact roadster went on sale later that year, and instantly became an icon. Its excellent handling and fun-to-drive nature combined with stellar reliability, low depreciation, and high value more than made up for its lack of practicality. Since the original Miata went on sale, Mazda has kept it fresh with various enhancements and a plethora of special editions, culminating with last year's turbocharged Mazdaspeed model. Somewhere in that period (1998, to be exact), the second generation model went on sale, but by most accounts, it was merely a mild evolution of the original. This week, at the 75th International Motor Show in Geneva, Mazda introduced the all-new third-generation model, now dubbed simply MX-5. The announcement could not have come sooner, as the Miata has seen increased competition from European and even American automakers. From what I have seen and read so far, I can say with a large degree of confidence that the new MX-5 will be another winner for Mazda. It's obvious that their streak of great products has not yet ended. The new Miata is a better car, period, and while there are always naysayers, there won't be many of them, and they will be downright wrong to boot. One of the most important parts of any sports car is of course its engine, and here Mazda has made a very nice step forward. Although Europe will continue to have the option of a 1.8-liter motor, the standard global engine is an enhanced version of the 2.0-liter MZR engine found in the Mazda3. Target power output for this engine is 160 PS at 6700 RPM with 188 Nm (139 pound-feet) of torque at 5000 RPM. Transmission choices include both five and six-speed manual boxes, as well as a six-speed automatic with steering column mounted paddle shifters. Not surprisingly, Mazda has also gone to work on the chassis to optimize rigidity and weight distribution. The engine has been moved back by 5.3" and the new unibody increases flexural stiffness by 22% and torsional rigidity by 47%. The track width has been increased both front and rear, and larger brakes, wheels, and tires are also part of the package. Inside, the steering wheel is now adjustable, and side airbags are offered for the first time. Interior storage space, always at a premium in a compact roadster, is enhanced with the addition of various compartments throughout the cabin. Top-down comfort is increased with a mesh air deflector mounted between the roll hoops, and waist-level air vents keep drivers warm on colder days. Despite all of these enhancements, Mazda has managed to keep weight gain to very minimal numbers. In its press materials, Mazda claims a gain of just 10 kilograms, or 22 pounds - so it will still weigh less than 2500 pounds. Combined with the extra power, the new MX-5 should be noticeably quicker than its predecessor. This low weight is especially impressive when compared to the similarly priced Pontiac Solstice roadster, which will weigh in at a minimum of 2800 pounds. But enough about the specs – just look at how damn gorgeous it is! Style-wise, I think Mazda just may have achieved perfection. It's clear that it shares cues with the 2003 Ibuki concept, such as the lower grille and headlights. The nose is also closer to that of the original MX-5, and the flares (necessitated by the wider track), dual exhaust pipes, and larger wheels add some aggression to the design. From the rear, the new car is also very similar to the original, losing the trunk lid curve that distinguished the second generation from the first. Although they will no doubt receive widespread criticism, I must admit that I find the clear-lens taillights quite attractive. From the side, the car is very nicely proportioned - sinmilar to the old car, but somehow, more modern looking at the same time. Some will complain that the new MX-5 is a bit too similar to the old car, but it is clear that Mazda knew not to mess with a good thing. And even though the changes are relatively subtle, the second generation model instantly looked dated to me once I saw photos of the new one. This new MX-5 is clearly superior to the old car in terms of comfort, safety, and performance. As long as the value and reliability stays the same, Mazda has a clear winner on its hands. In 2004, MX-5 Miata production broke the 700,000 mark. I have no doubt that this new model will bring that number up to a million and beyond within a few short years.
© Copyright 2003 by YourSITE.com |
