Mazda MX-5 Miata History
Mazda MX-5 Miata History
Take control of the road in the Mazda MX-5 Miata. This roadster is sporty and fun with thrilling performance as a two-seater. This model has the distinction of being the best-selling two seat convertible sports car in history and as its name implies, it is quite rewarding to drive.
One of a Kind
The MX-5 Miata made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show in 1989 to wide acclaim. The first generation was in production until 1997 with more than 400,000 units sold. Powering the first model was a 1.6L inline-four engine, which was upgraded to a 1.8L engine in 1993. Also standard on this first-generation model was the pop-up headlights, which was a signature feature.
In 1999, the second-generation MX-5 Miata was introduced. Headlights became fixed and a glass rear window was added. The third generation upgraded the engine to a 2.0L, which was introduced in 2006. A year later, the MX-5 added a power retractable hard top. This model was produced until the fourth generation was introduced in 2015.
Under the hood of this latest model was a 2.0L SKYACTIV-G engine. Later in 2015, the retractable fastback was launched. This model came at a time when small roadsters were phasing out. The body of this roadster is light and compact, weighing in at just over a ton. The unibody construction contributes to responsive handling, especially on curves and corners.
Design and performance for the MX-5 Miata has turned heads all around the world. Wheels Magazine named it the Car of the Year for 1989 and then again in 2005 and 2016. Sports Car International hailed it the best sports car of the 1990s and even one of the ten best sports cars of all time. The MX-5 Miata was also the Car of the Year in Japan for 2005 and 2006. In 2005, it won Australian Car of the Year. Even more impressive was the fact that it made it into the 10 Best list for Car and Driver magazine 17 times.
The Concept of the MX-5 Miata
The concept for the MX-5 Miata came to life years before the car was built. A competition brought together two teams to design a sports car within the Mazda company. What would become the MX-5 was named Duo 101, which won the competition. The inspiration for the body and other elements was the Lotus Elan from the 1950s.
It was in 2016 that Mazda sold the one-millionth unit of the MX-5 Miata. Fans in select cities got to sign the vehicle as it made its tour.
Today’s MX-5 Miata is just as affordable and just as fun as the original. While it has been updated with new technology and enhanced performance and safety, the overall design and concept is much the same as it was from the beginning. When something is already perfection, no alterations are needed.
The roadster is still lightweight, coming in at less than 2400 pounds, which adds to the exhilarating drive. It feels as if you and the car are one on the road. You can experience the feeling for yourself when you take it for a test drive at Bob Moore Mazda.