Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[MotoMan gives Targa Newfoundland the documentary treatment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/14/motoman-gives-targa-newfoundland-the-documentary-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/14/motoman-gives-targa-newfoundland-the-documentary-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/14/motoman-gives-targa-newfoundland-the-documentary-treatment/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

MotoMan Targa Newfoundland video

It's been seven months since I crammed into a supercharged Mazda Miata with the Flyin' Miata crew and fought tooth and nail for a fifth-place finish in the Grand Touring class of the 2011 Targa Newfoundland. That amount of time has done nothing to dull my desire to head right back into the fray as soon as possible. While I was there, the FM team spent a good deal of time hanging out with our friends over at MotoMan, and the crew just finished putting the final touches on its race documentary.

The first episode shows off the sweet SRT-tweaked Dodge Challenger the MotoMan guys got to play with. With plenty of suspension adjustments, a full cage and a bare-bones interior, the big white beast was as far from the NC Miata we campaigned as you could get. Watch the clip after the jump for an introduction to a few of the other competitors, including SRT CEO Ralph Gilles, as well as an interview with driver Brandon Fitch and myself. Keep an eye out for more episodes, too.

Continue reading MotoMan gives Targa Newfoundland the documentary treatment

MotoMan gives Targa Newfoundland the documentary treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Apr 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 targa newfoundlandchallengerdodgedodge challengerflyin miatamazdamazda miatamiatamotomanralph gillessrttargatarga newfoundlandtarga newfoundland documentarySat, 14 Apr 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20214298/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/14/motoman-gives-targa-newfoundland-the-documentary-treatment/20214298/article-detail.xml 20214298 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/motoman-targa-newfoundland-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/motoman-targa-newfoundland-628.jpg <![CDATA[Twin-engined, sixteen-cylinder Mazda MX-5 Miata, anyone?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/twin-engined-sixteen-cylinder-mazda-mx-5-miata-anyone/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/twin-engined-sixteen-cylinder-mazda-mx-5-miata-anyone/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/twin-engined-sixteen-cylinder-mazda-mx-5-miata-anyone/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mazda Miata V-16

As far as two-seaters go, they don't get much farther apart than the Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 and the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The Mazda is as cheap as the Bugatti is expensive, and the Veyron has as many turbochargers - and digits in its output figures - as the Miata has cylinders. But this homegrown example aims to bridge the gap.

Someone, it seems, has stretched out their Miata's wheelbase and fitted a pair of eight-cylinder engines (which is essentially what powers the Bugatti) under the extended hood - or where the hood used to be, anyway. The result, as you can see from the brief clip after the jump, is rather rumblesome. Here's hoping the next vid has a bit more action...

Continue reading Twin-engined, sixteen-cylinder Mazda MX-5 Miata, anyone?

Twin-engined, sixteen-cylinder Mazda MX-5 Miata, anyone? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazdamazda miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 miatamiatamx-5twin enginev1-6v16Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20170073/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/13/twin-engined-sixteen-cylinder-mazda-mx-5-miata-anyone/20170073/article-detail.xml 20170073 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bugiata_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bugiata.jpg <![CDATA[Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 5: Stay on target]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-5-stay-on-target/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-5-stay-on-target/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-5-stay-on-target/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland

It's a good day to be in the Flyin' Miata camp. As of the conclusion of Day 3 of competition, both the Targa Miata and the Supercharged 2006 MX-5 hold the top position in their respective classes. While Keith and Janel Tanner have managed to sling their 430-horsepower machine through Wednesday's nine stages to take the top slot, Brandon Fitch and I overcame a few small obstacles to zero all of our times through the day. Despite my fat-fingering the egg-timers ahead of the incredibly technical Greenspond stage, we came in just two-seconds outside of dead zero and well within our plus or minus nine-second window.

I also received a front-row showing of Fitch's driving prowess after the car stalled at the start of the third-to-last stage. In a desperate push to make up lost time, the Flyin' Miata engineer pushed the 240-horse Miata to 128 kph through a series of undulating turns. That figure is just two kph shy of our maximum allowable speed. Crossing that barrier brings all sorts of unsavory penalties.

Thursday will bring forth a whole new set of challenges as our window narrows to plus or minus five seconds. While we used today to train ourselves to arrive at the flying finish well within our final day tolerances, fatigue is beginning to set in on both Brandon and I, greatly increasing the chance of a careless error that could cost us our lead. Regardless of how we wrap up on Friday, the fact that we can say that we tied for first across the first three days of the 2011 Targa Newfoundland is a story I'll be blathering at cocktail parties for years.

Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 5: Stay on target originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 targa newfoundlandflyin miatamazdamazda miatamazda mx-5miatamx-5targatarga newfoundlandThu, 15 Sep 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20043288/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/15/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-5-stay-on-target/20043288/article-detail.xml 20043288 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/targa-newfoundland-wednesday-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/targa-newfoundland-wednesday-630.jpg <![CDATA[Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 4: Off to Gander]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-4-off-to-gander/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-4-off-to-gander/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-4-off-to-gander/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Flyin Miata at the 2011 Targa Newfoundland

While I thought that I grasped just how unique and amazing the Targa Newfoundland is in the world of motorsports, the breadth of this event's character didn't hit home until I got here. We spent the majority of yesterday's morning and afternoon tackling stages in and around Gander, a small town about 206 miles north of St. John's. Despite my completely misinterpreting the route book on stage one and a near miss with an time control, we managed to zero every stage and avoid any penalties, but the two final stages of the day presented a challenge that we weren't exactly prepared for.

Though the stages we had covered so far had given me gracious periods of three, four and even five kilometers during which I could insert my own time and distance way points to keep the 2006 Flyin' Miata Mazda MX-5 on course and on time, the last two did not. Both stages took place on the same seven kilometer course that wound through a dense subdivision. That's right, kids. We would be attempting to carry a 57.5 kph (35.7 mph) average through a series of 29 90-degree turns. I would have no more than 300 meters at most to alert Brandon Fitch, my valiant driver, of the direction of and distance to the next turn as well as monitor our time as we passed each instruction.

I'll be honest; I didn't have much hope for our chances.

We lined up, the lights went hot and in a second, we were blurring through the subdivision. With Fitch's help, I was able to glean enough time to glance at our egg timers and equate the figures with our actual distance. We were going to nail it.

We zeroed Gander on the first run and managed a repeat performance for the second pass. As Fitch put it, "This is the most awesome thing. Ever. In the history of the world."

I'm inclined to agree. Our efforts today managed to place us in first for the second day in a row, but with days of 12-hour driving and calculating quickly stacking up, our chances for careless errors are increasing drastically. Stay tuned for more updates and keep an eye on the 2011 Targa Newfoundland site for our times.

Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 4: Off to Gander originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 targa newfoundlandflyin miatagandermazda miatamazda mx-5miatamx-5newfoundlandtargatarga newfoundlandThu, 15 Sep 2011 10:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20042186/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/15/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-4-off-to-gander/20042186/article-detail.xml 20042186 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/targa-newfoundland-update-4-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/targa-newfoundland-update-4-630.jpg <![CDATA[Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 3: Welcome to the jungle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-3-welcome-to-the-jungl/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-3-welcome-to-the-jungl/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-3-welcome-to-the-jungl/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Zach Bowman and Brandond Fitch with Flyin Miata at the Targa Newfoundland

The 2011 Targa Newfoundland is officially underway after three prologue stages on Sunday. As our first real taste of targa competition, the day was instrumental in alerting Brandon Fitch, driver of the number 1680 Flyin' Miata Supercharged Mazda Miata, and myself to the fact that we had no holy clue as to what we were doing.

As a co-driver in the Grand Touring class, it's my job to make sure that we arrive at the flying finish line as close to our target time as humanly possible. Early in the event, we get to enjoy nice, wide 30-second time windows. Later in the week, that gap will narrow to a slender six seconds. During the prologue, we either under- or over-shot our times by as much as 30 additional seconds outside of our window.

Mercy.

What was the problem, you ask? Our rally computer, the infamous Terratrip, seems to have been designed specifically to confound and infuriate. With Brandon doing his best to keep us shiny side up during a stage, I'm trying to call out the distances to the next instruction in descending intervals of 100 meters, the instructions themselves, monitor our time as we arrive at the instruction and hopefully keep an eye on our average speed to tell us whether or not we were close to hitting our time. It didn't work that way.

For starters, the Terratrip seems to have a preference for calculating average speed not from the time that the vehicle begins moving, but from the instant that you turn the machine on. Not helpful. If I cleared the screens in preparation for our start time, the computer began factoring two minutes of zeros into our average speed, rendering a completely useless number.

Keep reading to see how it turned out...

Continue reading Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 3: Welcome to the jungle

Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 3: Welcome to the jungle originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2006 mazda mx-52011 targa newfoundlandflyin miatamazdamazda miatamazda mx-5miatamx-5newfoundlandtarga newfoundlandTue, 13 Sep 2011 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20041049/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/13/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-3-welcome-to-the-jungl/20041049/article-detail.xml 20041049 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/flyin-update-3-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/flyin-update-3-630.jpg <![CDATA[Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 2: Technical difficulties]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/10/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-2-technical-difficulti/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/10/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-2-technical-difficulti/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/10/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-2-technical-difficulti/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Flyin' Miata Supercharged NC MX-5

While Keith and Janel Tanner took Friday to hash out setting the odometer on the Targa Miata, Brandon Fitch and I continued on with our education with the Open Road Motorsports Targa School in our trusty Supercharged NC. The day's instruction orbited around two simulated stages on Bell Island just a short ferry ride from St. John's. With our notes prepped, our own Terratrip rally computer properly calibrated, and a closed course through the winding roads of the island ahead of us, we were understandably enthusiastic about putting our freshly-gleaned skills to use.

We arrived early, took the first spot in the queue just ahead of a vicious-sounding Ferrari Enzo and waited for the stage lights to go green. When the time came, Fitch dropped the hammer and I immediately began rattling off instructions.

Continue reading to see how it went...

Continue reading Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 2: Technical difficulties

Flyin' Miata at Targa Newfoundland, Part 2: Technical difficulties originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 10 Sep 2011 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 targa newfoundlandchallengerchallenger srt8dodgedodge challengerdodge viperflyin miatamazdamazda miatamiataralph gillestarga newfoundlandviperSat, 10 Sep 2011 20:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20039364/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/10/flyin-miata-at-targa-newfoundland-part-2-technical-difficulti/20039364/article-detail.xml 20039364 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/flyin-miata-targa-newfoundland-main-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/flyin-miata-targa-newfoundland-main-630.jpg <![CDATA[Buy a turbo for your Miata, get a free... goat?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/28/buy-a-turbo-for-your-miata-get-a-free-goat/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/28/buy-a-turbo-for-your-miata-get-a-free-goat/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/28/buy-a-turbo-for-your-miata-get-a-free-goat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Bill and Teri Cardell are the husband and wife team behind Flyin' Miata. That name should be instantly familiar to fans of the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Autoblog.com alike. Flyin' Miata is the go-to source for go-fast parts for the Miata community. Bill is also the driver for a Targa Newfoundland Miata that will be co-driven by our very own Zach Bowman. Before Cardell lines up to the Targa start line, however, he has a special offer he's extending to those looking for forced induction... and it involves goats.

For every order of the Flyin' Miata FMII turbo kit, Bill and Terri Cardell will buy a goat through Heifer International. What does that mean exactly? Heifer International provides animals, seeds and training to those living in particularly needy areas of the world. Rather than simply supplying them with food, Heifer provides them with the knowledge and tools to create their own food. The goats can provide milk, fertilizer and even more goats.

It's a rather unique promotion, but any Miata owner who takes them up on the deal should wind up with a faster car while someone in another part of the world will get some much-needed help. Click past the jump for the full press release and more details.

Continue reading Buy a turbo for your Miata, get a free... goat?!

Buy a turbo for your Miata, get a free... goat?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flyin miataflyin miata goatflyin miata turbo kitfmii turbo kitgoatheifer internationallivestockmazdamazda miatamazda mx-5miatamx-5 miataThu, 28 Jul 2011 09:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20002546/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/28/buy-a-turbo-for-your-miata-get-a-free-goat/20002546/article-detail.xml 20002546 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mazda-miata-goat-inside_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mazda-miata-goat-inside.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog to compete in Targa Newfoundland with Flyin' Miata]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/autoblog-to-compete-in-targa-newfoundland-with-flyin-miata/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/autoblog-to-compete-in-targa-newfoundland-with-flyin-miata/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/autoblog-to-compete-in-targa-newfoundland-with-flyin-miata/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Flyin Miata 2006 Mazda MX-5

No matter what part of the world you hail from, there's really nothing quite like the Targa Newfoundland. Held on a beautiful island off the Eastern coast of Canada, the course is over 1,350 miles long and winds through small towns, open spaces and deep forests for some of the most challenging and varied stages of any competition on the continent. As a result, competitors come wielding sheetmetal from every conceivable corner of the globe and era of automotive history. It's a buffet of horsepower at wide-open throttle, and this year, we'll be in the hunt ourselves.

The good people at Flyin' Miata have been so kind as to offer us a much-coveted co-driver seat in their supercharged 2006 MX-5. Nancy, as our valiant stallion is affectionately known due to her NC chassis, started life as an abused orphan of the Mazda press car fleet. After a little massaging by the Flyin' Miata crew, the car now rocks a 2009 front fascia, the company's proprietary supercharger kit, springs and sway bars as well as a set of Tokico Shocks. All told, the car produces somewhere around 240 horsepower, which should be enough to help us keep up with the rest of the Grand Touring Class.

Yours Truly will doing his level best to keep from confounding Bill Cardell as he whips Nancy across the Canadian landscape. Those familiar with the Miata scene know Cardell as the founder and owner of Flyin' Miata, so if anyone knows how to properly cane an MX-5, it's this guy. I'm honored to have the chance to share the cockpit with him.

This year, Flyin' Miata is actually campaigning two vehicles. While Cardell, myself and Nancy are set to go the distance in the Grand Touring category, Keith and Janel Tanner are also taking to the Targa. The husband-and-wife team will once again helm the same 1994 MX-5 Miata that they drove in the 2008 Targa Newfoundland, with one big change. This year, the car rocks a General Motors L33 V8 conversion that cranks out 400 horsepower to the rear wheels thanks to a set of LS6 heads and a trick cam. All of that power is funneled through a T56 six-speed transmission and a Getrag differential with a clutch-pack limited slip. Needless to say, the Tanners will be taking on the Open Class to do battle with the quickest metal of the event.

Interestingly enough, Flyin' Miata wouldn't have been able to head to the 2011 Targa Newfoundland at all without the help of the company's fans and supporters. The team tried to seduce large sponsors to help fund the trip to Canada before turning to the Miata nation for help. To date, they've raised over $14,500 to help put the cars on the first stage. It's a testament to just how faithful Miata owners can be.

Given that my navigation experience is limited plotting the quickest path to the Dippin Dots stand at the local amusement park, I've got some serious work to do before the race gets started on September 10. Stay tuned for updates on my Targa education.

Autoblog to compete in Targa Newfoundland with Flyin' Miata originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 targa newfoundlandbill cardellflyin miatajanel tannerkeith tannermazda miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 miatamiatamx-5newfoundlandtargatarga newfoundlandtarga newfoundland 2011Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19991362/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/14/autoblog-to-compete-in-targa-newfoundland-with-flyin-miata/19991362/article-detail.xml 19991362 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/01-flyin-miata-nancy-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/01-flyin-miata-nancy-630.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda targeting 1,760-pound target for next Miata - 400 pounds lighter than first-gen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/08/mazda-targeting-1-760-pound-target-for-next-miata-400-pounds-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/08/mazda-targeting-1-760-pound-target-for-next-miata-400-pounds-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/08/mazda-targeting-1-760-pound-target-for-next-miata-400-pounds-l/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata - Click above for high-res image gallery

The future is looking bright for the next-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata. According to Inside Line, the head honchos at the Japanese automaker have instructed the company's engineers to strip a whopping 720 pounds from the vehicles already comparably light 2,480-pound curb weight. If successful, that would put the new comer into the feathery 1,760-pound range, which is 400 pounds less than the first-generation roadster. How do they plan to do it? Engineers are turning to high-strength steel for the vehicle's chassis and contemplating a smaller-displacement engine.

A turbocharged, direct-injection 1.4-liter four pot could work its way under the hood, though IL reports that the vehicle may also be considerably narrower than the current car. Other clever weight-saving moves include the deletion of the dashboard glove box and the replacement of the traditional paper owner's manual with an electronic copy on a USB stick.

Here's hoping you've got your laptop on you the next time you need to check your service intervals.

The report claims that the engineers at Mazda aren't entirely sure they can hit the weight target, but the vehicle will be much closer to the waif-like 2,178-lb 1989 Miata than the heftier 2011 model.

Mazda targeting 1,760-pound target for next Miata - 400 pounds lighter than first-gen originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazdamazda miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 miatamiatamx-5mx-5 miatamx5Wed, 08 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19961866/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/08/mazda-targeting-1-760-pound-target-for-next-miata-400-pounds-l/19961866/article-detail.xml 19961866 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/mazda-miata-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/mazda-miata-630.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Mazda Miata forms basis for unlikely rat rod]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/ebay-find-of-the-day-mazda-miata-forms-basis-for-unlikely-rat-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/ebay-find-of-the-day-mazda-miata-forms-basis-for-unlikely-rat-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/ebay-find-of-the-day-mazda-miata-forms-basis-for-unlikely-rat-r/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ebay find of the day mazda-powered rat rod
eBay Find of the Day: Mazda-powered Rat Rod - Click above for image gallery

Let's play a quick game of word association; if we say "rat rod", what would you say in return? We'd wager that "Mazda" wouldn't be the first thing to come out of your mouth. Hell, it wouldn't even be the last thing. Unless, of course, you're a person looking for cheap transportation as you being graduate school in Georgia. It's hard to believe the car in the lead photo started life as a Miata, and has since been transformed into a real ratty rod that's fitted with parts from a variety of vehicles.

The owner states the he was rear-ended in the Mazda Miata, and this started him down a path to turn the wrecked vehicle into a rat rod. The engine, transmission, rear differential, gauges, suspension and steering components are all from a 1996 Miata. The frame was custom-fabricated from the remains of the crash-damaged car. The front and rear sub-frames were attached to the custom frame that was created, and this allowed for the stock steering and suspension points to be retained.

Up front, the grille of the rat rod was created by turning two 1960's Ford fender covers sideways, then welding them together. The headlamps are from a 1940s Packard, while the hood ornament was plucked from a 1941 Cadillac. Inside, the seats were wrestled out of a '70s-era Monte Carlo. Oddly enough, the entire package works well together to create that rat rod aesthetic, and the Mazda motor has no problem moving custom rig down the road.

The asking price is $8,000, and you can find out more about the Mazda-powered rat rod by clicking over to the eBay listing.

eBay Find of the Day: Mazda Miata forms basis for unlikely rat rod originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 May 2011 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ebayebay motorsmazdamazda miatamazda rat rodmazda-powered rat rodmiatarat rodTue, 17 May 2011 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19941544/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/17/ebay-find-of-the-day-mazda-miata-forms-basis-for-unlikely-rat-r/19941544/article-detail.xml 19941544 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/013-rat-rod-ebay-motors_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/013-rat-rod-ebay-motors.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda MX-5 Miata hits 900K... next stop, one million]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/04/mazda-mx-5-miata-hits-900k-next-stop-one-million/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/04/mazda-mx-5-miata-hits-900k-next-stop-one-million/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/04/mazda-mx-5-miata-hits-900k-next-stop-one-million/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

20th anniversary Mazda MX-5 Miata live in Geneva
20th Anniversary Mazda MX-5 Miata special edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda has announced that the automaker has turned out 900,000 units of its MX-5 Miata since the car first put tire to pavement in 1989. Of that astronomical number, a staggering 45 percent were sold here in North America, which means that 388,000 of the droptops have been shipped to our continent over the past 22 years.

Mazda attributes the vehicle's success to its ability to adhere to what made the convertible a sales winner in the first place - offering basic sports car appeal with one of the highest fun-per-dollar ratios of any vehicle out there. Since 1989, the convertible has undergone two complete redesigns and a slew of minor updates along the way. The MX-5 crested the 500,000 unit mark back in 1999, and sales of the winsome roadster continue to march on impressively. Click past the jump to check out the full press release on the occasion for yourself. Thanks for the tip, The Typical Guy!


Gallery: Geneva 2010: Mazda MX-5 20th Anniversary


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda MX-5 Miata hits 900K... next stop, one million

Mazda MX-5 Miata hits 900K... next stop, one million originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazdamazda miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 productionmiatamx-5Fri, 04 Feb 2011 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19829490/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/04/mazda-mx-5-miata-hits-900k-next-stop-one-million/19829490/article-detail.xml 19829490 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadmx520thannivgeneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadmx520thannivgeneva.jpg <![CDATA[SEMA 2010: Mazda Miata Super20 makes two decades even more worth it]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/04/sema-2010-mazda-miata-super20-makes-two-decades-even-more-worth/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/04/sema-2010-mazda-miata-super20-makes-two-decades-even-more-worth/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/04/sema-2010-mazda-miata-super20-makes-two-decades-even-more-worth/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mazda Miata Super20
Mazda MX-5 Miata Super20 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Both the UK and Europe got 20th anniversary edition Mazda MX-5s earlier this year, and we now have our own version... in concept form. Speaking to the same color and materials designer who gave us the skinny on the hip and evil Mazda2s, we were told that the brief with this one was to make the Miata a little tougher without going too hardcore. A hard top goes in the place of the canvas roof and the form is draped in dark gray speckled with gold metallic. The orange accents in the darker stripes are tuned to that metallic hue, and they are matched by the orange roll cage and orange contrast stitching inside. Other notable details are the suede inserts on the interior, the first-gen door handles, the reworked grille area sans Mazda's smiley face and a badge-less nose.

Under the hood is a reflashed ECU controlling a supercharged Cosworth motor, an ACT clutch, Mazdaspeed coilovers and shock tower brace, and Racing Beat hollow anti-roll bars. StopTech and SpeedSource throw in braking hardware behind 16-inch Enkei wheels on fat rubber. As for the chances of us anything like it in real life, you've heard this one before: "There are discussions..." Spy it yourself in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: SEMA 2010: Mazda Miata Super20 and MX-5 Cup Car

Mazda Miata Super20Mazda Miata Super20Mazda Miata Super20Mazda Miata Super20Mazda Miata Super20

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jonathon Ramsey / AOL

SEMA 2010: Mazda Miata Super20 makes two decades even more worth it originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazda miatamazda miata super20Mazda MX-5mazda mx-5 super20miatamiata super20mx-5mx-5 super20semasema 2010sema auto showsema auto show 2010sema showsema show 2010Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19700313/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/04/sema-2010-mazda-miata-super20-makes-two-decades-even-more-worth/19700313/article-detail.xml 19700313 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/mazda-miatas-semaopt-1288882772---2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/mazda-miatas-semaopt-1288882772---2.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda sets lightweight target of 2,200 pounds for next-gen MX-5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/04/mazda-sets-lightweight-target-of-2-200-pounds-for-next-gen-mx-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/04/mazda-sets-lightweight-target-of-2-200-pounds-for-next-gen-mx-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/04/mazda-sets-lightweight-target-of-2-200-pounds-for-next-gen-mx-5/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mazda MX-5 Miata - Click above for high-res image gallery

The original Mazda MX-5 made its U.S. debut in 1989, and back then, the Miata was a lithe little roadster that immediately drew praise for its superior handling and a fun-to-drive nature. Each generation that followed packed on more pounds and additional amenities, slightly blunting the car's appeal as a simple roadster at an affordable price. But the next MX-5 - due to arrive in 2012 - Mazda has set a target weight of 2,200 pounds and returning it to its former glory.

At just over a ton, the next-gen MX-5 will tip the scales slightly more than the original 1989 model, but it will still retain its 50/50 weight distribution that makes the roadster a wonderfully balanced machine. To keep weight in check, Mazda will employ one of its newly-developed, SKY-G gasoline engines which the company claims will boost efficiency by 15 percent while also increasing power over previous engine designs. Mazda predicts that its next-gen MX-5 could touch 50 miles per gallon, a remarkable achievement for the quintessential roadster.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Autocar]

Mazda sets lightweight target of 2,200 pounds for next-gen MX-5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mazda miata2012 mazda miata lightweight2012MazdaMiata2012MazdaMiataLightweightLightWeightCarsLightweightMaterialsmazdamazda miatamazda miata superlightMazda MX-5mazda mx-5 lightweightMazda MX-5 Miatamazda mx-5 superlightMazda MX-5 Superlight Conceptmazda mx-5 superlight versionMazdaMiataMazdaMiataSuperlightMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5LightweightMazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx-5SuperlightMazdaMx-5SuperlightConceptMazdaMx-5SuperlightVersionMX-5mx-5 lightweightMx-5LightweightWed, 04 Aug 2010 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19581175/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/04/mazda-sets-lightweight-target-of-2-200-pounds-for-next-gen-mx-5/19581175/article-detail.xml 19581175 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/2009mx5review_001_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/2009mx5review_001_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda launches certified pre-owned program]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/06/mazda-launches-certified-pre-owned-program/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/06/mazda-launches-certified-pre-owned-program/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/06/mazda-launches-certified-pre-owned-program/#commentsFiled under: ,



Quite a few automakers have had success with certified pre-owned used car programs, and now Mazda is jumping on board by offering a CPO plan of its own. After all, used vehicles that have passed a rigorous inspection are more attractive to potential buyers, even though certified cars commonly carry a heavier price tag than their non-inspected lot mates.

Mazda is offering its CPO program on all 2006 to 2010 model year vehicles with less than 60,000 miles. Depending on the auto's age, certified used cars will offer the remaining balance of Mazda's warranty, or will be sold with an additional 12-month/12,000-mile comprehensive warranty, as well as additional seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage. What's more, Mazda offers roadside assistance on its CPO vehicles.

Expect the certified pre-owned program to make its way across the vast majority of Mazda dealers in the United States in the coming months. For the full details, hit the jump to read the release.

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda launches certified pre-owned program

Mazda launches certified pre-owned program originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>certified pre-ownedcertified pre-owned vehicleCertifiedPre-ownedCertifiedPre-ownedVehiclemazdaMazda B-SeriesMazda CX-7Mazda CX-9mazda miataMazda MX-5Mazda MX-5 Miatamazda rx-8mazda3Mazda5Mazda6MazdaB-seriesMazdaCx-7MazdaCx-9MazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaRx-8used carsUsedCarsTue, 06 Jul 2010 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19540011/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/06/mazda-launches-certified-pre-owned-program/19540011/article-detail.xml 19540011 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/mazda35dfr341_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/mazda35dfr341.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda whips the sheets off of MX-5 Miata Miyako for UK market]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/30/mazda-whips-the-sheets-off-of-mx-5-miata-miyako-for-uk-market/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/30/mazda-whips-the-sheets-off-of-mx-5-miata-miyako-for-uk-market/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/30/mazda-whips-the-sheets-off-of-mx-5-miata-miyako-for-uk-market/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


UK-edition Mazda MX-5 Miyako - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mazda MX-5 Miata has been electromagnetic when it comes to special editions, nearly as powerful at attracting check-this-option-box versions as the Ford Mustang. The next one to be rung up is the MX-5 Miyako for those roadster-loving Brits. Part of the year-long celebration of 20 years of Miata production, the "summer special edition" Miyako gets the requisite leather interior upgrade with highlighted stitching and badging, unique colors and 17-inch wheels.

It is the first special edition that you can have in both ragtop and folding tin-top forms, with 500 each available to the consuming public. It goes on sale July 1, priced from £18,385 ($27,722 U.S.) on-the-road. Have a read on all the specs after the jump, and check the fun you're meant to have in it in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Mazda MX-5 Miyako Edition for the UK


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda whips the sheets off of MX-5 Miata Miyako for UK market

Mazda whips the sheets off of MX-5 Miata Miyako for UK market originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>limited editionLimitedEditionmazdamazda miataMazda MX-5mazda mx-5 20th anniversaryMazda MX-5 Miatamazda mx-5 miyakoMazda MX5MazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-520thAnniversaryMazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx-5MiyakoMazdaMx5miyakospecial editionSpecialEditionWed, 30 Jun 2010 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19535755/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/30/mazda-whips-the-sheets-off-of-mx-5-miata-miyako-for-uk-market/19535755/article-detail.xml 19535755 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/mazdamiyakouk_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/mazdamiyakouk.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: 2012 Mazda MX-5 to get rotary engine option]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/16/rumormill-2012-mazda-mx-5-to-get-rotary-engine-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/16/rumormill-2012-mazda-mx-5-to-get-rotary-engine-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/16/rumormill-2012-mazda-mx-5-to-get-rotary-engine-option/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mazda Miata - Click above for high-res image gallery

Rumors have surfaced that the next-generation Mazda MX-5 could tip the scales at 2,200 pounds and boast an impressive 50 miles per gallon without losing a lick of horsepower in the process. And while initial reports had the Miata achieving those impressive numbers with the help of Mazda's forthcoming SKY-G engines, Best Car Japan is hearing something different from Mazda HQ.

The Japanese magazine reports that the 2012 Miata will receive a rotary mill with a displacement of 1.2 or 1.3 liters, helping the roadster drop a few pounds in the process. However, the Wankel has proven to be anything but fuel efficient, so to achieve lofty fuel economy numbers the rumored rotary would be of the hybrid variety. That sounds a bit far fetched, but the Wankel/hybrid marriage has already been consummated in the form of a Fiat 500 prototype created by FEV. The little Fiat contains a rotary that acts as a generator for a Lithium-Ion battery pack.

While it's an intriguing idea, our money is on a small, efficient four-pot with turbocharging. After all, one of the most attractive qualities of the Miata is it's diminutive price tag, and hybrids tend to add a lot of cost - not to mention weight - to the bottom line.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata


Photos by Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: 7Tune]

Rumormill: 2012 Mazda MX-5 to get rotary engine option originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mazda miata rotary hybrid2012MazdaMiataRotaryHybridmazda miataMazdaMiatamiata rumorsMiataRumorsrotary hybrid mazdaRotaryHybridMazdaWed, 16 Jun 2010 13:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19517642/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/16/rumormill-2012-mazda-mx-5-to-get-rotary-engine-option/19517642/article-detail.xml 19517642 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/2009mx5review_001_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/2009mx5review_001_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Pete Brock and John Morton announce new BRE Mazda MX-5 Miata]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/18/pete-brock-and-john-morton-announce-new-bre-mazda-mx-5-miata/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/18/pete-brock-and-john-morton-announce-new-bre-mazda-mx-5-miata/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/18/pete-brock-and-john-morton-announce-new-bre-mazda-mx-5-miata/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BRE MX-5 Miata
BRE Mazda MX-5 Miata - Click above to enlarge

Back in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the red, white and blue Datsuns of the BRE team were a common sight on American racetracks, competing in Sports Car Club of America events. The brainchild of Pete Brock and driven by John Morton, the BRE Datsun 510s and 240Zs were a winning combination.

BRE came to an end at the end of the 1972 season, but Brock and Morton are now back with a new car. Pete Brock is the honored guest at this year's Walter Mitty challenge at Road Atlanta. To honor him, Mazda has teamed up with Brock and Morton to run an MX-5 wearing the classic BRE livery during the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy MX-5 Cup series race that's part of the Mitty weekend slate.

The Walter Mitty Challenge takes place April 29 - May 2, 2010 in Braselton, GA.

[Source: Mazda]

Pete Brock and John Morton announce new BRE Mazda MX-5 Miata originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Apr 2010 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brebrock racing enterprisesBrockRacingEnterprisesjohn mortonJohnMortonmazdamazda miataMazda MX-5MazdaMiataMazdaMx-5pete brockPeteBrockwalter mitty challengeWalterMittyChallengeSun, 18 Apr 2010 12:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19444300/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/18/pete-brock-and-john-morton-announce-new-bre-mazda-mx-5-miata/19444300/article-detail.xml 19444300 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/bre-mx-5-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/bre-mx-5-630.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda MX-5 Matte and Black Special Edition is darkened hotness]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/18/mazda-mx-5-matte-and-black-special-edition-is-darkened-hotness/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/18/mazda-mx-5-matte-and-black-special-edition-is-darkened-hotness/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/18/mazda-mx-5-matte-and-black-special-edition-is-darkened-hotness/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mazda MX-5 Matte and Black Special Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

We make no effort to hide the fact that we love the Mazda Miata just the way it is. In fact, it's always been just about perfect in our eyes, as evidenced by our most recent road test of the sporty little Japanese runabout. But if bright schoolbus yellow just isn't your bag, baby, may we suggest something a little more subtle?

Mazda has just rolled out the MX-5 Matte and Black Special Edition at the 21st annual Salon du Cabriolet, Coupé & SUV in Paris. Ostensibly to celebrate the Miata's 20th birthday in France, we kinda think Mazda just wanted to prove that its sportscar looks pretty darn good in the automotive equivalent of the little black dress. And boy, does it ever.

There's nothing special underhood, so the 2.0-liter four still puts out an adequate 167 horsepower. We can't say that we see them in the photos ourselves (fortunately), but design label LK by Laure Kczekotowska Paris has reportedly decked the MX-5 out in rhinestones, gems, and crystals. Ah well, nothing can be perfect. See for yourself in the image gallery below.


Gallery: Mazda MX-5 Matte and Black Special Edition


[Source: Mazda via Le Blog Auto]

Mazda MX-5 Matte and Black Special Edition is darkened hotness originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mattematte and black miatamatte and black mx-5matte blackmatte miatamatte paintMatteAndBlackMiataMatteAndBlackMx-5MatteBlackMatteMiataMattePaintmazdamazda miataMazda MX-5mazda mx-5 matte and blackMazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MatteAndBlackMiatamiata retractable hardtopMiata RHTCMiataRetractableHardtopMiataRhtcMX-5Mx-l15mx5Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19405469/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/18/mazda-mx-5-matte-and-black-special-edition-is-darkened-hotness/19405469/article-detail.xml 19405469 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/mx-5-matte_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/mx-5-matte.jpg <![CDATA[Blimey! UK gets its own 20th Anniversary Mazda Miata]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/blimey-uk-gets-its-own-20th-anniversary-mazda-miata/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/blimey-uk-gets-its-own-20th-anniversary-mazda-miata/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/blimey-uk-gets-its-own-20th-anniversary-mazda-miata/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mazda MX5 20th Anniversary Edition (UK) - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you'll allow us to channel Kyle's mother for a moment, "What!? What!? What?!?!" That's right folks, not only has Mazda decided that them good bread and cheese eaters over in Europia get a 20th Anniversary edition Miata, but the redcoat wearing, Simon Cowell spawning, Union Jacking Queen-lovers over in Britain are fit to get their own special special edition 20th Anniversary Miata. Us Yanks? Bupkis.

Of course, when you scrape your way down to the nitty and/or gritty of the matter, you learn that just like the Europe-only MX-5 Miata, the Brit version also gets a 1.8-liter motor, not the more powerful 2.0-liter found in U.S.-spec Miatas. Meaning that only a very few crazy die hards would shell out good money for a detuned special edition Miata even if the 1.8-liter model "echoes true spirit of 1990 original." And of course, as we all know (ahem) the 1990 original Miata came with a 1.6-liter power plant and the 1.8-liter motor didn't show up until 1996 1994.

The truth of the matter is there doesn't seem to be any difference between the British 20th Anniversary cars and the European ones aside from the fancy paint job (the 20th Anniversary car is largely an appearance package detailed here). It's just that Britain is such a huge Miata market the island nation secured 33 percent of the production run. After all, the Miata is essentially a British roadster minus all the never absent rust, fatal electrical gremlins and routine catastrophic purging of essential fluids. Still feeling bad that we're not getting a 20th Anniversary Miata? It takes 9.9 seconds for that 1.8-liter to 60 miles per hour... Press release after the jump.


Gallery: Mazda MX5 20th Anniversary Edition (UK)


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Blimey! UK gets its own 20th Anniversary Mazda Miata

Blimey! UK gets its own 20th Anniversary Mazda Miata originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20th Anniversary Edition Mazda Miata UK20th Anniversary Mazda Miata UK20th Anniversary Mazda MX-520th Anniversary Miata20th Anniversary MX-5 Miata20thAnniversaryEditionMazdaMiataUk20thAnniversaryMazdaMiataUk20thAnniversaryMazdaMx-520thAnniversaryMiata20thAnniversaryMx-5MiataBritish 20th Anniversary MiataBritish MiataBritish20thAnniversaryMiataBritishMiataMazdaMazda MiataMazda Miata UKMazda MX-5 MiataMazdaMiataMazdaMiataUkMazdaMx-5MiataMiataMiata UKMiataUkMX-5MX-5 MiataMx-5MiataMX5Wed, 10 Feb 2010 20:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352496/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/blimey-uk-gets-its-own-20th-anniversary-mazda-miata/19352496/article-detail.xml 19352496 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/630britmiata_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/630britmiata.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda to launch special 20th Anniversary MX-5 Miata in Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/mazda-to-launch-special-20th-anniversary-mx-5-miata-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/mazda-to-launch-special-20th-anniversary-mx-5-miata-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/mazda-to-launch-special-20th-anniversary-mx-5-miata-in-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Twenty years of motoring goodness - click above for high-res image

Twenty years. Can you believe it's been two decades since we first heard the Japanese phrase Jinba ittai (meaning "rider and the horse are one")? To catch you up, way back in 1976, some Mazda engineers asked American auto journalist Bob Hall what they should build next. Mr Hall, who later wound up working for Mazda, mentioned the bugs-in-the-teeth British roadsters that every gearhead both loved and loathed. Their reputation as great driver's cars was only preceded by their rep for breaking down and stranding you on the side of the road.

If Mazda could engineer a tight, compact, great-handling roadster that didn't dump all its fluids every other Wednesday, they'd surely have a hit. Back at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, the world met the MX-5, much, much better known as the Miata. Since then, nearly 1,000,000 Miatas have been built, with just under 400,000 of them getting snatched up by American consumers. In other words, the Miata gambit worked.

To commemorate twenty years of building such great sports cars, Mazda will be introducing a 20th Anniversary Limited Edition MX-5 Miata at next month's Geneva Motor Show. Pay special attention to the "Limited" part of the name, as only 2,000 anniversary cars will be built, and they'll only be available in Europe. One reason for the latter might be that the 20th Anniversary cars are based on the smaller displacement 1.8-liter car, a version of the Miata not sold in the States, or it could be that we may get our own commemorative edition to be announced at a later date.

Like most anniversary packages (see the big four-oh Nissan Z), nothing too exciting is happening to this Miata. There is, of course, the requisite numbered plaque. There's a chrome grille surround, chrome door-handles and chrome headlight surrounds. You also get "silver-look" fog light surrounds, plus special 17-inch wheels with "20th Anniversary" logos. The 20th Anniversary cars are available only in red, white or a new Aurora Blue, which we find rather sharp looking. And lest you think Mazda's not tossing a bone to performance enthusiasts, the car comes with a strut-tower brace.


Gallery: 20th Anniversary Mazda MX-5 Miata


[Source: Mazda]

Mazda to launch special 20th Anniversary MX-5 Miata in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20th Anniversary Limited Edition Mazda Miata20th Anniversary Limited Edition Mazda MX-5 Miata20th Anniversary Limited Edition Miata20th Anniversary Miata20thAnniversaryLimitedEditionMazdaMiata20thAnniversaryLimitedEditionMazdaMx-5Miata20thAnniversaryLimitedEditionMiata20thAnniversaryMiatainnba ittaiInnbaIttaiMazdaMazda MiataMazda MX-5Mazda MX-5 MiataMazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMiataMX-5Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19340964/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/02/mazda-to-launch-special-20th-anniversary-mx-5-miata-in-geneva/19340964/article-detail.xml 19340964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/630mazda_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/630mazda.jpg -1 2