MAZDA MX5's ICONIC EVOLUTION THAT MAKES MAZDA PARTS DISTRIBUTORS LIKE PARTSTRAIN DELIVERS THE BESTFresh from wheels up, Mazda MX5 -- world’s favorite roadster remains true to lightweight, fun to drive formula that sold more than 700,000 MX-5s worldwide since its introduction in 1989. The third generation Mazda MX-5 will be presented in October 2005 at Geneva and Melbourne motor shows. Intensity of spirit possessed by very few sports cars – this was what Program Manager Takao Kijima has in mind when creating all-new Mazda MX-5.
The all-new Mazda MX5 epitomizes Japanese word Jinba Ittai (rider and horse as one).Jinba Ittai is akin to bond between a single-seat formula-car pilot and his racer, which is essence of Zoom-Zoom. The rider-and-horse idiom and effort to create a car universally seen as "lots of fun" served as focal point around new Mazda MX5.
Mazda engineers realize Jinba Ittai concept defined five basic requirements: car would be as compact and as light as possible while meeting global safety requirements; cockpit would comfortably accommodate two full-stature occupants with no wasted space. Meanwhile, basic layout would continue with original’s front-midship rear-drive configuration with engine positioned ahead of driver but behind front axle for 50:50 weight distributions. In addition, all four wheels would be attached by wishbone or multi-link suspension systems to maximize tire performance, road grip and dynamic stability and that a power-plant frame would again provide a solid connection between engine and rear-mounted differential to sharpen throttle response.
Mazda engineers made every gram count when they very well knew that extra weight would have a dramatically negative influence on driving, cornering, and braking performance. Their "gram strategy" assessed weight in smallest possible increments and carefully scrutinized weight-trimming opportunities. Other weight-saving tactics were employed as well. Advanced technology was applied where practical to achieve a light and rigid unibody design using materials that offered higher strength and lighter weight.