Mazda, MX-5

The Mazda MX-5 is a lightweight, rear-wheel drive roadster that has been in production since 1989. It is often referred to as the Miata outside of Europe and Japan.

First Generation (NA): The first generation of the MX-5 was introduced in 1989 and produced until 1997. This initial version featured a 1.6L inline-four engine, producing 96 horsepower. The NA model had a manual transmission with five speeds, while an optional automatic transmission with four speeds was also available.

Second Generation (NB): The second generation MX-5 was released in 1998 and produced until 2005. This version saw improvements to the powertrain, with a 1.8L engine producing 128 horsepower. The NB model featured an upgraded interior, improved handling, and a more refined ride.

Third Generation (NC): The third generation of the MX-5 was introduced in 2005 and produced until 2015. This version saw significant improvements to performance, with a 2.0L engine producing 167 horsepower. The NC model featured a revised chassis, improved suspension, and enhanced interior amenities.

Fourth Generation (ND): The fourth generation of the MX-5 was released in 2015 and is currently in production. This version features a 2.0L inline-four engine, producing 155 horsepower. The ND model has been praised for its exceptional handling, precise steering, and refined ride quality. It also boasts advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Engine Options: Throughout the years, the MX-5 has offered various engine options to suit different driving styles. These have included:

• 1.6L inline-four (NA generation)
• 1.8L inline-four (NB generation)
• 2.0L inline-four (NC and ND generations)
• A limited-edition 1.8L high-revving inline-four (NC generation)

Transmission Options: The MX-5 has been available with a range of transmissions, including:

• Five-speed manual transmission
• Four-speed automatic transmission (NA and NB generations)
• Six-speed manual transmission (NC and ND generations)
• A six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters (ND generation)

Interior and Features:

• Throughout the years, the MX-5 has featured various interior amenities, including:
  • Cloth or leather upholstery
  • Heated seats
  • Cruise control
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Premium audio systems

Safety Features: The Mazda MX-5 has been praised for its excellent handling and safety features. These have included:

• Dual front airbags
• Side airbags (NC generation onwards)
• Rearview camera (ND generation)
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert (ND generation)

Awards and Recognition: The Mazda MX-5 has received numerous awards and accolades throughout its production run. These include:

• "Car of the Year" award by Car and Driver magazine (1990)
• "Best Sports Coupe" award by Motor Trend magazine (2006)
• "Top Gear Magazine's Supercar of the Year" (2016)

Special Editions: Throughout the years, Mazda has released various special-edition MX-5 models to commemorate specific events or celebrate the car's heritage. These have included:

• 20th Anniversary edition (NA generation)
• Grand Touring edition (NC generation)
• Sport Tech edition (ND generation)
• RF (retractable hardtop) and 30th Anniversary editions (ND generation)

The Mazda MX-5 has established itself as a beloved roadster, renowned for its exceptional handling, agile performance, and delightful driving experience.