Mazda MX-5

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Mazda MX-5
Production period: since 1989
Class : Sports car
Body versions : Roadster

The Mazda MX-5 is a car model produced by the Japanese automaker Mazda . In the USA the MX-5 is sold as Mazda Miata and in Japan as Mazda Roadster (until 1996 as Eunos Roadster ). After it was launched, a renaissance of the roadster began in many countries in the 1990s .

With 1,000,000 units sold between February 1989 and April 2016, the MX-5 is the best-selling roadster worldwide.

development

The MX-5 follows the tradition of small British and Italian sports cars of the 1960s such as the Triumph Spitfire (built 1962-1980), the MG MGB (1962-1980), the Fiat 124 Sport Spider (1966-1982), the Alfa Romeo Spider and especially the Lotus Elan .

In 1989 the Mazda MX-5 came on the market. Before that, many classic roadsters were almost "extinct" for various reasons (for example stricter safety regulations, small interior, little trunk). Some manufacturers produced vehicles with removable roof parts ( Targa ). The only roadster still in mass production was the Alfa Romeo Spider, but it was technically outdated. Since the Mazda market research departments saw no potential for such a vehicle, it is largely thanks to the personal initiative of many developers, such as the MX-5 project manager Toshihiko Hirai, that the car went into series production anyway. At the time of market launch, production of only 5,000 vehicles per year is said to have been planned, of which 3,000 for the USA and 500 for Europe. But by the end of 1990 140,918 vehicles had been produced, 15,888 of which were destined for Europe. The contingent intended for Germany was sold out in just three days. Many MX-5s were exported from the USA and Canada to other countries and sold there as gray imports .

The MX-5 was developed with a particular focus on the Californian market. The idea of ​​developing a roadster is said to have originally developed in a conversation between Mazda manager Kenichi Yamamoto and American auto journalist Bob Hall, who is said to have answered Yamamoto's question about which Mazda vehicle was particularly missing on the North American market : "A lightweight sportscar". It was hoped that the car would have a positive emotional impact on the Mazda brand name; a strategy that, in retrospect, can probably be described as successful.

Other manufacturers later followed suit with their own roadster models, for example BMW with the Z3 , Mercedes with the SLK , MG with the MG F , Toyota with the third generation of the MR2 and Fiat with the Barchetta . Almost all of the competitors in the MX-5 price segment were discontinued without a successor. Many roadsters that appeared after the Mazda MX-5 belong to the premium segment, see Roadster # Modern Roadster .

Model history

  • The NA with pop-up headlights from 1989 to 1998
  • From 1994 there was a slight facelift of the NA with a modified interior (especially the dashboard) and engine changes (131 hp and later 90 hp instead of 116 hp (Euro2)) (with a smooth transition to production)
  • The NB from 1998 to 2000 with fixed headlights, new chassis, modified body, new interior, modified engines and a heated rear window made of glass.
  • The NB-FL (FL = Facelift ) was built as a revised version of the NB from 2001: Changed headlights, front section and taillights, various changes to the interior and technology (e.g. red instead of green instrument lighting, new center console, different seats, changed door panels , Engine).
  • Further revision in 2004: Detail changes in the interior, the outer shape remains the same.
  • The heavily modified NC from 2005
  • The externally and technically slightly revised NC-FL from summer 2009
  • The externally slightly modified NC-FL with improved pedestrian protection from spring 2013
  • The ND has a new design and is shorter and lighter than the NC, from autumn 2015. The MX-5 RF (RF = Retractable Fastback) is a model with a folding plastic roof .

Type NA (1989–1998)

1st generation
Mazda MX-5 (1989-1998)

Mazda MX-5 (1989-1998)
Production period: 1989-1998
Body versions : Roadster
Engines:
Petrol engines : 1.6–1.8 liters
(66–96 kW)
Length: 3970 mm
Width: 1675 mm
Height: 1235 mm
Wheelbase : 2270 mm
Empty weight : 955-1030 kg
Mazda MX-5 Limited Edition with the roof open
Interior (1990)

The MX-5 was presented at the Chicago Auto Show on February 10, 1989 and launched in Europe in May 1990. At the start of sales, only a 1.6-liter engine with 85 kW (115 hp) with two overhead camshafts and gasoline injection was initially offered. A five-speed gearbox was standard, and even this model had very short shift travel of 40 mm. The rack and pinion steering could be equipped with power assistance at an additional cost. Both the front and rear wheels were individually suspended from double wishbones . There were disc brakes on all wheels, the front ones were internally ventilated. For the MX-5, Mazda achieved an ideal 50:50 weight distribution between the front and rear axles. The drag coefficient c w is given as 0.38 with the convertible top closed and 0.44 when open.

In 1991 a limited edition of the MX-5 in british racing green with a beige interior came on the market. From 1992 the MX-5 was delivered with a cross brace on the rear axle, which led to improved handling.

In the spring of 1994, a 1.8-liter engine with 96 kW (131 hp) was added. This engine had a 4.1: 1 longer rear axle ratio, instead of the 4.3: 1 ratio used in the 1.6-liter engine. In addition, the MX-5 received a slight facelift in the interior and the wheels, reduced emissions in the exhaust gas, more safety, a modified body and an improved chassis: the doors were made with additional sheet metal struts, the wheels changed, the dashboard was given rounder shapes, In addition to the cross strut installed in 1992, the rear axle received two parallel longitudinal struts and the front axle one cross strut. The exhaust gas values ​​have been improved from Euro 1 to Euro 2, ABS as well as driver and passenger airbags were added. In addition, an additional strut bar in the interior was available for the 1.8-liter engine, which was attached behind the seats. Only in 1994 was there a light blue metallic paint called Laguna Blue Mica.

From the beginning of 1995, the 1.6-liter engine was replaced by a more cost-effective version with an output of 66 kW (90 hp). This engine also transferred the power to the road via a 4.1: 1 ratio. This version of the 1.6-liter engine, which was initially offered with 115 hp, became known as the "HFM" (housewife engine) because it lacked torque and revving.

431,506 copies of the NA were sold.

Technical specifications

1.6 1.8
Construction period 02 / 1989–01 / 1994 01 / 1995-04 / 1998 02 / 1994-04 / 1998
Engine characteristics
Engine type R4 petrol engine
Number of valves per cylinder 4th
Valve control DOHC , timing belt
Mixture preparation Manifold injection
Engine charging no
cooling Water cooling
Bore × stroke 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm 83.0 mm × 85.0 mm
Displacement 1598 cc 1840 cc
Compression ratio 9.4: 1 9.0: 1
Max. Power at min −1 85 kW
(115 PS)
/ 6500 		66 kW
(90 PS)
/ 6000 		96 kW

(131 HP)

/ 6500

Max. Torque in min -1 135 Nm
/ 5500 		129 Nm
/ 4000 		152 Nm
/ 5000
Emission standard Euro 1 Euro 2
Power transmission
drive Rear wheel drive
Gearbox, as standard 5-speed manual transmission
Gearbox, optional - 4-stage automatic
transmission
Readings
Top speed 195 km / h 175 km / h 197 km / h
Acceleration, 0-100 km / h 8.8 s 10.6 s 8.2 s
(8.7 s)
Fuel consumption over 100 km (combined) 7.8 l 8.4 l 9.1 l
Empty weight 955 kg 965 kg 990 kg
Remarks
not for E10 fuel suitable
  1. ↑ Figures in round brackets for automatic transmissions.

Type NB / NB-FL (1998-2005)

2nd generation
Mazda MX-5 (1998-2000)

Mazda MX-5 (1998-2000)
Production period: 1998-2005
Body versions : Roadster
Engines:
Petrol engines : 1.6–1.8 liters
(81–107 kW)
Length: 3955 mm
Width: 1680 mm
Height: 1235 mm
Wheelbase : 2270 mm
Empty weight : 1035-1155 kg

In January 1998 Mazda presented the second generation of the MX-5 (production code NB ). More powerful engines were offered: the 1.6-liter engine developed 81 kW (110 hp), the 1.8-liter engine 103 kW (140 hp).

In 1999 Mazda celebrated the 10th anniversary of the MX-5 with a limited edition of 7,500 units worldwide. This 10th Anniversary model had a few special features, such as a six-speed gearbox, Bilstein shock absorber, a strut bar between the front strut domes, highly polished five-spoke Enkei 15-inch alloy wheels and an engine output of 103 kW (140 hp) . It was made in sapphire metallic blue only. The serial number is located on a sticker on the left side of the vehicle below the side indicator. The vinyl roof was also blue. Here, too, there was a steering wheel and gear knob from Nardi . The maximum speed of this model was given in the registration papers as 206 km / h.

  • Rear view

  • Anniversary model emblem

In December 2000 the MX-5 underwent a facelift (internal NB-FL ), which was recognizable by minor modifications to the front and rear as well as a slightly changed interior. In addition, there was now an automatic version with 102 kW (139 hp), with the car with a manual transmission producing 107 kW (146 hp).

The Mazda MX 5 was also offered for a short time in Asia and in the USA as a Mazda speed version with a 1.8l 16v 4-cylinder engine with exhaust gas turbocharger .

  • Mazda MX-5 (2000-2005)

  • Rear view

Technical specifications

1.6 1.8
Construction period 05 / 1998-09 / 2005 05 / 1998-11 / 2000 12 / 2000-09 / 2005 12 / 2000-09 / 2005
Engine characteristics
Engine type R4 petrol engine
Number of valves per cylinder 4th
Valve control DOHC , timing belt
Mixture preparation Manifold injection
Engine charging no
cooling Water cooling
Bore × stroke 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm 83.0 mm × 85.0 mm
Displacement 1598 cc 1840 cc
Compression ratio 9.4: 1 9.5: 1 10.0: 1
Max. Power at min −1 81 kW
(110 PS)
/ 6500 		103 kW
(140 PS)
/ 6500 		107 kW
(146 PS)
/ 7000 		102 kW
(139 PS)
/ 6500
Max. Torque in min -1 134 Nm
/ 5000 		162 Nm
/ 4500 		168 Nm
/ 5000 		162 Nm
/ 4500
Emission standard Euro 2 or
Euro 3 		Euro 2 Euro 3
Power transmission
drive Rear wheel drive
transmission 5-speed manual transmission 4-stage automatic
transmission
Transmission (optional) - 6-speed manual transmission -
Readings
Top speed 191 km / h 205 km / h
(203 km / h) 		205 km / h
(208 km / h) 		190 km / h
Acceleration, 0-100 km / h 9.7 s 8.4 s 8.5 s
(8.4 s) 		11.0 s
Fuel consumption over 100 km (combined) 7.8-8.1 s 8.5-8.8 s 8.7 l S
(8.9 l S) 		8.9-9.5 s
Empty weight 1035 kg 1080 kg 1140 kg 1155 kg
Remarks
not for E10 fuel suitable
  1. ↑ Figures in round brackets for 6-speed gearboxes (Sportive).

Type NC (2005-2015)

3rd generation
Mazda MX-5 (2005-2008)

Mazda MX-5 (2005-2008)
Production period: 2005-2015
Body versions : Roadster
Engines:
Gasoline engines : 1.8–2.0 liters
(93–118 kW)
Length: 3995-4002 mm
Width: 1720 mm
Height: 1245-1255 mm
Wheelbase : 2330 mm
Empty weight : 1150-1175 kg
Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupé (2006-2008)

The third generation of the Mazda MX-5 (production code NC ) was presented at the 75th Geneva Motor Show in March 2005 . It was initially available as a 3rd generation pre-sale special model , which was sold from October 2005. The regular market launch took place at the end of January 2006.

This model is based on the floor pan of the Mazda RX-8 and was offered with two different MZR gasoline engines with 16 valves. It has improved standard equipment with DSC , traction control , side and head-shoulder airbags as well as larger disc brakes and weighs around 100 kg more than its predecessor. The 2.0 liter version also has a locking differential on the rear axle.

In Japan, the third generation MX-5 was voted Japan Car of the Year 2005/2006 .

From autumn 2006 the MX-5 was also available in the roadster-coupé version with a plastic folding roof.

Special models

3rd generation

Mazda MX-5 3rd Generation (2006)

With the 3rd generation special model limited to 3500 vehicles , the third generation of the MX-5 was introduced in October 2005. The special model was available from 30,700 euros and has the 2.0-liter gasoline engine with 118 kW (160 hp) and a six-speed manual transmission. The exterior has been upgraded with chrome surrounds on the windshield frame, the front grille, the door handles, as well as fog lights and side indicators. The polished 17-inch aluminum wheels with 205/45 tires are combined with a sports suspension and Bilstein shock absorbers. There were also xenon headlights and a metallic paint in tornado red.

The heated seats and door panels were also covered with red leather. A 3rd Generation Limited badge with an integrated serial number was on the center console . In addition to automatic air conditioning and a leather-covered multifunction steering wheel with three spokes, there was a Bose sound system with seven speakers and a six-disc CD changer. There are also silver-colored applications on the dashboard, the display instruments and the speakers. The special model also included a pre-sale package with a Fila polo shirt, Levi's jeans, Puma sports shoes manufactured exclusively for Mazda and a pilot's watch from the watch manufacturer Sinn . The dial was painted the same color as the car and the bracelet was made of red leather.

Black & White

In September 2006, the Black & White special model, limited to 250 pieces, was offered as a roadster at prices from 23,800 euros and in two versions. What both have in common is the brilliant black or pegasus white paintwork and the light alloy wheels. As Black & White Energy based on the Energy equipment, the vehicle was available with a 1.8 or 2.0 l engine and five-speed manual transmission. As a Black & White Expression with a 2.0-liter engine and six-speed manual transmission, the MX-5 is based on the Expression variant. The optional light package with fog, xenon headlights and headlight cleaning system was standard with the Energy and cost 910 euros extra for the Expression. The Bose sound system with six CD changer and seven loudspeakers as well as the professional package with alarm system, interior monitoring and keyless access and start system LogIn were also subject to a surcharge . In the interior there were black heated leather seats, automatic air conditioning, a multifunction leather steering wheel and a mobile navigation system. The standard Apple iPod with two gigabytes of memory and adapter cable for the audio system has a color that contrasts with the exterior finish. Depending on the variant, the price advantage was up to 2070 euros.

Mithra

From April 2007, the limited special model Mithra named after the Persian sun god was available exclusively as a roadster from 26,000 euros. It was offered in the versions Mithra Emotion with 1.8-l engine, five-speed manual transmission and 16-inch aluminum wheels based on Emotion equipment, as well as Mithra Expression with 2.0-l engine, six-speed manual transmission and 17- Inch aluminum wheels. A price advantage was advertised compared to buying a similarly equipped MX-5 of 450 euros, or 539 euros in the case of the Mithra Emotion.

Both variants have a black fabric top that could be combined with the three metallic paint finishes Festival Black, Tiamat Blue and Argos Green. There are also fog lights, chrome applications on the front grille, the door handles and the roll bars as well as a white third brake light and white side indicators with chrome surrounds. The interior features beige-gray, heated sports leather seats, beige-colored decorative stitching on the gear knob, the handbrake handle and the leather steering wheel. The latter has controls for the audio system with CD player and six speakers. The standard equipment also included automatic air conditioning, a wind deflector and silver inlays on the dashboard.

Niseko

Mazda MX-5 Niseko
MX-5 Niseko with brown textile top

The special model Niseko , named after a Japanese ski resort , is based on the Emotion equipment variant and was available from March 2008 for both body and engine versions with a five-speed manual transmission, with the basic model as a roadster with a 1.8-liter engine costing 21,700 euros.

The exterior of the special model is defined by silver-gray 17-inch aluminum wheels in a ten-spoke design, chrome applications on the front grille, the headlamp inserts, the door handle covers as well as on the fog lights and side indicators. The latter, like the third brake light, are colored white. The five exterior paint finishes brilliant black, pegasus white (not available for the Roadster Coupé), satin silver metallic, mephisto gray metallic and, especially for the special model, pontos blue metallic were combined with a dark brown fabric hood on the roadster.

The heated seats, like the steering wheel, the gear knob and the handbrake handle, were covered in dark brown leather with light blue contrasting stitching. The interior also has automatic air conditioning and chrome-rimmed round instruments. The touring package with two additional loudspeakers, stainless steel door sill strips , MP3- CD radio with steering wheel controls, a storage net in the passenger footwell and heated glass rear window was included in the special model. There were no other equipment options.

From May 2008, the Plus package was available for an additional charge of 1500 euros. This included a Bose sound system with a six-disc CD changer, MP3 playback and seven loudspeakers as well as xenon headlights with automatic headlight range control and headlight cleaning system. The price advantage when buying a Niseko compared to a similarly equipped MX-5 should have been between 4780 and 5810 euros, depending on the engine.

20th Anniversary

Mazda MX-5 20th Anniversary

At the Geneva Motor Show in March 2010 Mazda presented this special model on the occasion of the 20th anniversary. It was only offered on the European market for around 22,000 euros and was limited to 2000 units. 500 of them were intended for Germany. The 20th Anniversary is based on the model with a 1.8 liter engine and a fabric top. The equipment has been supplemented with a chrome package, 17-inch alloy wheels, aluminum pedals, special special model logos in the interior and an additional strut bar in the engine compartment. The decorative elements in the interior and the roll bars of the special model are painted in the available exterior colors cardinal red, arachne white, or in the new color Nereus blue.

25th Anniversary

In April 2014 this special model was unveiled at the New York International Auto Show . It was delivered exclusively in Soul Red Metallic and with a beige leather interior. The equipment includes a black hardtop, aluminum rims and a Bilstein sports suspension. The 100 copies, which were offered exclusively in the USA , were sold out on May 20, 2014 ten minutes after being activated on the manufacturer's website.

Facelift

2008

Mazda MX-5 Roadster (2008-2012)
Rear view

At the Mondial de l'Automobile in October 2008, a facelifted version (NCFL) of the roadster was presented. Externally, the MX-5 from model year 2009 has been redesigned, especially at the front.

The previously oval cooling air intake has been replaced by the five-point radiator grille typical of Mazda in the style of the Mazda RX-8 modified in early 2009 . In addition, the headlights were visually stretched, the brand emblem was more clearly emphasized and the surrounds of the fog lights were changed. In addition, the exterior mirrors have been aerodynamically optimized and the side skirts have a light edge. The taillights have also been redesigned aerodynamically and visually. Furthermore, the Roadster Coupé now differs from the Roadster with a chrome-rimmed radiator grille with a wire mesh pattern and chrome-rimmed fog lights.

A sports package with Recaro seats and an automatic transmission for the 2.0-liter engine were added to the range. From then on, the NC was offered in the two equipment variants Center-Line and Sports-Line. The latter also offered a 6-speed manual transmission, a Bilstein sport chassis, xenon headlights and aluminum pedals. The soft top model was delivered with manual air conditioning, while the coupe received automatic air conditioning as standard.

The pistons, crankshaft and valve springs of the 2.0-liter engine were revised and the engine speed limit increased by 500 revolutions to 7500 rpm with the same output. An induction sound enhancer was also installed here from the engine compartment into the interior, which should ensure a more intense engine sound . Driving performance has improved slightly, while consumption has been reduced. In addition, the chassis has been revised, the ESP has been set less sensitive and the six-speed manual gearbox should shift more easily than before thanks to the carbon coating.

After the revision, the MX-5 NC was available in the colors brilliant black, cardinal red, arachne white, pluto silver, carmine red, kronos gray and tiamat blue. Except for the first two paints, they were metallic colors.

The following equipment features were included in different packages with the facelift: a cruise control called Cruisematic , a Bluetooth hands-free system with voice control, an outside temperature and consumption display , a five-stage seat heating in conjunction with leather seats and a tire pressure control system.

In the interior, the center console has been changed, the center bar of the cup holder is now removable, and the armrest is padded. The door panels have also been revised, as has the audio system, which has been given a different operating concept.

2012

Mazda MX-5 (2012-2015)

In autumn 2012 the MX-5 was revised again. The changes were largely limited to the appearance.

The MX-5 got a newly designed front bumper, which should make the vehicle appear more aggressive and also improve the aerodynamics. The two outer elements of the bumper , which contain the fog lights , are now sloping towards the outside, the large air intake in the middle tapers towards the bottom. The interior has also been redesigned a bit. A new exterior color called Dolphin Gray has been added to the model range.

When it comes to pedestrian protection , hand was also given. A new feature is an active engine hood DHS (Deployable Hood System), which is supposed to lift automatically in the event of a crash with a pedestrian and thus offer more space for deformation. This crumple zone is intended to reduce more impact energy, which is intended to increase the protection of pedestrians.

The brake booster has also been revised. A more direct response to acceleration should also contribute to increasing driving pleasure.

The motors have been no changes, it remained in the two four-cylinder - petrol engines with 1.8 liter displacement and 93 kW (126 hp) and 2.0 liters and 118 kW (160 hp).

Superlight version

Superlight version at the IAA

At the IAA 2009 a study of the MX-5 NC called Superlight Version was presented. It was created in the European design and development center in Oberursel and, as the name suggests, is characterized by its lightweight construction. A roof and a windshield have been completely dispensed with, only a large roll bar protects the occupants in the event of rollover. Many parts are also made of lightweight materials and the interior has been significantly reduced.

The Superlight version is powered by the usual 1.8-liter petrol engine with 93 kW (126 PS), but has a better performance than the equally powerful production model due to the 135 kg lower weight of 995 kg: Acceleration from 0 - 100 km / h is 8.9 s, the CO 2 emissions 150 g / km.

Technical specifications

MX-5 NC, engine compartment with 2.0 l MZR engine
1.8 MZR 2.0 MZR
Construction period 03/2005–02/2015 03/2005–10/2008 11/2008 - 02/2015
Engine characteristics
Engine type R4 petrol engine
Number of valves per cylinder 4th
Valve control DOHC , chain
Mixture preparation Manifold injection
Engine charging no
cooling Water cooling
Bore × stroke 83.0 mm × 83.1 mm 87.5 mm x 83.1 mm
Displacement 1798 cc 1999 cc
Compression ratio 10.8: 1
Max. Power at min −1 93 kW
(126 PS)
/ 6500 		118 kW
(160 PS)
/ 6700 		118 kW
(160 PS)
/ 7000
Max. Torque in min -1 167 Nm
/ 4500 		188 Nm
/ 5000
Power transmission
drive Rear wheel drive
Gearbox, as standard 5-speed manual transmission 5-speed manual transmission
(6-speed manual transmission from 2013)
Gearbox, optional - 6-speed manual transmission
6- speed automatic transmission
Measured values (1)
Top speed 200 km / h 215 km / h
(218 km / h)
[194 km / h]
Acceleration, 0-100 km / h 9.6 s 8.3 s
(8.2 s) 		7.6 s
(7.9 s)
[8.9 s]
Fuel consumption over 100 km (combined) 7.3 l p 7.7 l S
(8.2 l S)
[8.2 l S] 		7.6 l S
(7.8 l S)
[8.0 l S]
CO 2 emissions (combined) 174 g / km 183 g / km
(193 g / km) 		177 g / km
(181 g / km)
[188 g / km]
Empty weight (2) 1150 kg 1155 kg (1165 kg) [1175 kg] 1155 kg (1165 kg) [1175 kg]
(1)Deviating values ​​with 6-speed manual transmission () and 6-stage automatic [].
(2) The curb weight of the Roadster Coupé is on average approx. 37 kg more.

Type ND (since 04/2015)

4th generation
Mazda MX-5 (since 2015)

Mazda MX-5 (since 2015)
Production period: since 2015
Body versions : Roadster
Engines: Petrol engines :
1.5–2.0 liters
(96–135 kW)
Length: 3915 mm
Width: 1735 mm
Height: 1225-1235 mm
Wheelbase : 2310 mm
Empty weight : 975-1113 kg
Stars in the Euro NCAP - Crash Test (2015) 4 stars in the Euro NCAP crash test

Mazda presented the fourth generation of the MX-5 on September 7, 2014 simultaneously in three countries (USA, Spain and Japan). The new model was then presented at the Paris Motor Show in October 2014 and at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2014 . Production started on March 4, 2015. The production location is still Hiroshima in Japan. The roadster was officially presented to the public at German dealerships on September 12, 2015.

A collaboration with Alfa Romeo announced in May 2012 was canceled in mid-2014. In November 2015, FCA presented the Fiat 124 Spider based on the ND platform. The Mazda follows the Kodo design line; Kodo means something like "soul of movement".

  • Front view with LED headlights

  • Rear view

  • Rear view closed ( 30th Anniversary at Geneva Motor Show 2019)

  • cockpit

  • MX5 RF ("Targa") front view

  • MX5 RF ("Targa") rear view

  • MX5 RF ("Targa") top view

  • Front view

  • Rear view

  • Side view

The new model is 105 millimeters shorter and with comparable equipment over 100 kilograms, the basic version 82 kg lighter than its predecessor: the body by 20 kg, engine by 18 kg, transmission by seven kilograms, seats by eight kg. Parts of the frame, axles and body - here the hood, for example - are made of aluminum. The soft top, which is thicker and therefore better insulated from the second equipment level onwards, is operated manually as on the previous roadster. Mazda presented a version with an electrically operated retractable roof, as it was sold in the previous model from 2008 under the name Roadster Coupé, at the New York International Auto Show 2016 as the MX-5 RF . The cockpit is similar to that of the Mazda2 and CX-3 .

MX-5 engine compartment

Like its predecessor, the fourth MX-5 is only available with a petrol engine and also has rear-wheel drive . The entry-level version has a new 1.5-liter gasoline engine with 96 kW (131 PS), while the more powerful version has a two-liter engine with 118 kW (160 PS). Both engines are direct-injection units without a turbocharger: Mazda calls this SkyActiv technology; it includes u. a. a compression of up to 14: 1, hollow pistons, engine block made of an aluminum alloy, multi-hole injectors and 30% less friction. By February 2011, Mazda said it had applied for more than 130 patents. The crankshaft is made of steel. Both engines have 80% of the maximum torque from 2000 rpm. Changes to the camshaft and moving parts made it possible to increase the speed limit of the 1.5-liter engine to 7500 rpm. The manual transmission always has six gears, regardless of the selected engine. The gear ratio is very short (e.g. 1st gear: 5.087: 1); the differential, however, is designed to be very long at 2.86: 1. As with the predecessors, the length of the switching travel remained at 40 mm. An automatic transmission will only be offered in Germany for the MX-5 RF .

The MX-5 distributes its weight evenly on both axes, a 50:50 weight distribution. The chassis has double wishbones at the front and multilink suspension at the rear . The braking system uses disc brakes on both axles, internally ventilated at the front; Their diameter is approx. 250 mm for the weaker model and 280 mm for the stronger model. The steering is electrically assisted for the first time on the MX-5.

Facelift

For the 2019 model year, the engines were adapted to the Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard . The injection pressure is now 300 bar. The combustion chamber geometry has been improved in terms of flow conditions and the cooling system has also been improved and friction has been further reduced. The engines have also been redesigned for better throttle response. The two-liter engine now achieves 135 kW (184 hp).

There are also five new driver assistance systems , including City Emergency Brake Plus , which detects obstacles behind the vehicle, drowsiness detection and traffic sign detection.

Technical specifications

1.5 Skyactiv G-131 1.5 Skyactiv G-132 2.0 Skyactiv G-160 (iELOOP) 2.0 Skyactiv G-184 RF 1.5 Skyactiv G-131 RF 1.5 Skyactiv G-132 RF 2.0 Skyactiv G-160 RF 2.0 Skyactiv G-184
Construction period 04/2015–08/2018 08 / 2018-02 / 2020 since 02/2020 04/2015–08/2018 08 / 2018-02 / 2020 since 02/2020 01/2017-08 / 2018 08 / 2018-02 / 2020 since 02/2020 12/2017–08/2018 08 / 2018-02 / 2020 since 02/2020
Engine characteristics
Engine type R4 petrol engine
Number of valves per cylinder 4th
Valve control DOHC
Mixture preparation Direct petrol injection
Engine charging -
cooling Water cooling
Bore × stroke 74.5 x 85.8 mm 83.5 x 91.2 mm 74.5 x 85.8 mm 83.5 x 91.2 mm
Displacement 1496 cc 1998 cc 1496 cc 1998 cc
Compression ratio 13: 1
Max. Power at min −1 96 kW
(131 PS)
/ 7000 		97 kW
(132 PS)
/ 7000 		118 kW
(160 PS)
/ 6000 		135 kW
(184 PS)
/ 7000 		96 kW
(131 PS)
/ 7000 		97 kW
(132 PS)
/ 7000 		118 kW
(160 PS)
/ 6000 		135 kW
(184 PS)
/ 7000
Max. Torque in min -1 150 Nm / 4800 152 Nm / 4500 200 Nm / 4600 205 Nm / 4000 150 Nm / 4800 152 Nm / 4500 200 Nm / 4600 205 Nm / 4000
Power transmission
drive Rear wheel drive
Gearbox, as standard 6-speed manual transmission
Gearbox, optional - [6-speed automatic transmission] -
Readings
Top speed 204 km / h 214 km / h 219 km / h 203 km / h 215 km / h
[194 km / h] 		220 km / h
[199 km / h] 		220 km / h
Acceleration, 0-100 km / h 8.3 s 7.3 s 6.5 s 8.6 s 7.5 s
[8.5 s] 		6.8 s
[7.9 s] 		6.8 s
Fuel consumption over 100 km
(combined) 		6.0 liters of super 6.3 liters of super 6.1 liters of super 6.9 liters of super
(6.6 liters of super with iELOOP) 		6.9 liters of super 6.1 liters of super 6.3 liters of super 6.1 liters of super 6.6 liters of super
[6.4 liters of super] 		6.9 liters of super
CO 2 emissions (combined) 139 g / km 143 g / km 138 g / km 161 g / km
(154 g / km with iELOOP) 		156 g / km 142 g / km 143 g / km 138 g / km 154 g / km
[149 g / km] 		156 g / km
[157 g / km] 		156 g / km
Emission standard Euro 6 Euro 6d-TEMP Euro 6d Euro 6 Euro 6d-TEMP Euro 6d Euro 6 Euro 6d-TEMP Euro 6d Euro 6 Euro 6d-TEMP Euro 6d
Empty weight 975 kg 986 kg 996 kg 1015 kg 1030 kg 1025 kg 1015 kg 1030 kg 1040 kg 1055 kg
[1080 kg] 		1073 kg
[1113 kg] 		1072 kg

Registration numbers

In 2015, a total of 80,772 Mazda MX-5s were registered. Of all generations with over 115,000 registrations, the second generation of type NB with over 50,000 vehicles had the largest share. The rest was distributed over the other two generations with a slight preponderance of the first generation.

In 2017, 5,266 MX-5s were newly registered in Germany; with the Fiat 124 Spider it was a little less than half.

In 2018, 4,545 MX-5s were newly registered in Germany; the Fiat had 2,660 registrations.

literature

  • Stefan Heth; "The History of Mazda MX-5 (1989-2005), 1st edition: 2003 (out of print), 2nd edition: 2016, available exclusively from amazon.de
  • Automobile revue. Catalog 1991, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2008 and 2011
  • Toshihiko Hirai (project manager), Kouichi Hayashi, Shunji Tanaka (designer), Naoyuki Ikemizu (chief engineer) u. a .: Mazda MX-5 Miata. Design & Development: The inside story told by Mazda's designers & engineers Veloce Publishing, 2004, ISBN 1-904788-29-7 (with many original documents from Mazda's development department)
  • Keith Tanner: Mazda Miata MX-5 Performance Projects (Motorbooks Workshop). Motorbooks International, 2003, ISBN 0-7603-1620-1 (English)
  • Rod Grainger, Pete Shoemark: Mazda Miata Mx5 Enthusiast's Shop Manual. Veloce Publishing, 2001, ISBN 1-874105-59-6 (English)
  • Norman Garrett; (=) Norman H. Garrett III, former Mazda engineer at the Miata project: Mazda Miata Performance Handbook. (Motorbooks Workshop) MBI Pub., Osceola, WI 1998, ISBN 0-7603-0437-8 (English)
  • Dieter Korp: Now I'm helping myself . Volume 151: Mazda MX-5 . Motorbuch-Verlag, Stuttgart 1995, ISBN 3-613-01520-X . (This volume deals with all models from 1989 to 1998 with the following engines: 1.6 liters, 66 kW / 90 PS or 85 kW / 115 PS and 1.8 liters, 96 kW / 130 PS)

Web links

Commons : Mazda MX-5  - Collection of pictures, videos and audio files

Individual evidence

  1. ↑ Mazda MX-5 world premiere . September 2, 2014. Archived from the original on December 26, 2014. Retrieved on December 28, 2014.
  2. ↑ auto motor und sport issue 13/1989.
  3. ↑ a b Small roadster from Mazda . In: ATZ Automobiltechnische Zeitschrift . 1989th edition. No. 9 . Franckh'sche Verlagshandlung, Stuttgart, p. 435 .
  4. ↑ a b c d e springerprofessional.de of June 22, 2015, Lighter and more efficient: Mazda MX-5 with Skyactiv technology , accessed on September 24, 2018.
  5. ↑ Motor Klassik 4/2019, page 140.
  6. ↑ a b Mazda Service - E10 fuel . Archived from the original on October 6, 2014. Info: The archive link was automatically inserted and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. Retrieved October 10, 2014. @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.mazda.de
  7. ↑ Mazda MX-5: 3rd generation edition model comes first. In: Auto-News online edition. August 2, 2005, accessed March 3, 2010 .
  8. ↑ Black & White: Contrasting program for the Mazda MX-5. In: Auto-News online edition. September 22, 2006, accessed March 3, 2010 .
  9. ↑ Open sun god: Mazda MX-5 as a special model Mithra. In: Auto-News online edition. April 12, 2007, accessed March 3, 2010 .
  10. ↑ a b Mazda MX-5 Niseko: Open-air luxury with savings. In: Auto-News online edition. May 27, 2008, accessed March 3, 2010 .
  11. ↑ Mazda MX-5: Extra luxury package for the special Niseko model. In: Auto-News online edition. March 11, 2008, accessed March 3, 2010 .
  12. ↑ Uli Baumann: Special model for the 20th anniversary. In: auto, motor und sport online edition. February 1, 2010, accessed March 3, 2010 .
  13. ↑ Mazda reveals 25th anniversary edition MX-5 Miata alongside next-gen chassis. In: Autoblog. May 22, 2014. Retrieved May 26, 2014 .
  14. ↑ Emphasizes inconspicuous: The Mazda MX-5 is getting a facelift. In: Auto-News online edition. September 4, 2008, accessed March 3, 2010 .
  15. ↑ Mazda MX-5 facelift from autumn 2012 . July 13, 2012. Retrieved December 28, 2014.
  16. ↑ welt.de from October 9, 2009, The Mazda MX-5 Superlight is a flyweight , accessed on September 23, 2018.
  17. ↑ Result of the Mazda MX-5 in the Euro NCAP crash test (2015)
  18. ↑ Mazda Motor Corporation today began production of the all-new Mazda MX-5 . facebook.com/mazdacom.
  19. ↑ FCA executive confirms Mazda MX5 platform for new Fiat Abarth model . Motor Authority. December 23, 2014. Retrieved December 28, 2014.
  20. ↑ auto-motor-und-sport.de from October 1, 2014, Inspired by nature, including an interview with Kevin Rice , accessed on September 23, 2018.
  21. ↑ motorsport-total.com of March 25, 2017, Mazda CX-5 2017 ... , accessed on September 15, 2018.
  22. ↑ a b c tagesspiegel.de of September 7, 2015, Come on, let's play , accessed on September 23, 2018.
  23. ↑ motor-talk.de 2015, When our biggest sits down in the little ones , accessed on September 23, 2018.
  24. ↑ a b Metal hood for the MX-5 . Car picture. March 23, 2016. Accessed March 23, 2016.
  25. ^ English-language Mazda2 website of May 18, 2011 , accessed on September 23, 2018.
  26. ↑ ausfahrt.tv, 2017, Mazda MX-5 RF (driving report; chapter engine names material), accessed on 23 September 2018.
  27. ↑ Mazda MX-5 price list as of April 1, 2015
  28. ↑ Press presentation Mazda MX-5: Long live the Roadster! . Car engine. September 4, 2014. Retrieved September 20, 2014.
  29. ↑ heise.de from August 6, 2018, driving report: Mazda MX-5 Skyactiv G 131 in particular data sheet, accessed on September 24, 2018.
  30. ↑ heise.de from June 16, 2015, driving report: Mazda MX-5 Skyactiv G 160 in particular data sheet, accessed on September 24, 2018.
  31. ↑ automobil-produktion.de from May 23, 2018, Mazda converts model range to Euro-6d-TEMP , accessed on September 29, 2018.
  32. ↑ Mazda press of June 20, 2018, Mazda MX-5 2019: More power and even more driving fun , accessed on September 24, 2018.
  33. ↑ Mazda MX-5 brochure. (especially page 20, PDF) Archived from the original on May 13, 2016 ; accessed on May 13, 2016 . .
  34. ↑ heise.de from June 16, 2015, better poured , accessed on September 24, 2018.
  35. ↑ autonotizen.de, SUVs drive Mazda forward , accessed on September 16, 2018 .
  36. ↑ New registrations of passenger cars in December 2017 by brand and model series. Retrieved September 24, 2018 .
  37. ↑ Approvals 2018, xlsx of the kba ; the MX-5 can be found under "compact class". Retrieved October 13, 2019.