with one-hand operation that was
lightweight and offered superior weather protection, and is still
the model of simplicity in today's
roadsters. All together, the MX-5
Miata weighed a low 2,116 pounds
curb weight and could reach 60
mph in less than nine seconds.
The second-generation MX-5 Miata debuted in 1998 as a 1999 model year, offering a more powerful
1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with
140 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of
torque, and new styling that was
most obvious in the front as the
first generation car's distinctive
pop-up headlights were replaced
with a faired-in design. In addition, the plastic rear window in
the MX-5's soft top was replaced
with a heated glass window.
Features such as a straight intake
port, a variable-inertia exhaust
system and a dual exhaust manifold were incorporated to aid the
sporty feel. The base model could
reach 60 mph in 7.9 seconds, with
a top speed of 122 mph.
A special limited edition model
was introduced in 1999 to celebrate MX-5's 10-year anniversary. This model ramped up performance by use of a new six-speed
manual transmission, Torsen(®
)limited-slip differential and
sport-tuned suspension wi th Bilstein shock absorbers. A special
Sapphire Blue Mica paint with more than 700 dealers.
blue soft top also was offered on Operations in Mexico are manthe special edition model.
aged by Mazda Motor de Mexico
in Mexico City.
In 2005, the third generation MX-5 was introduced with a new 16-valve,
2.0-liter MZR I-4 engine,
producing 170 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque,
coupled to either a fivespeed or a six-speed manual transmission or 166
horsepower with the optional six-speed automatic
transmission. Every component on the car was either all-new or extensively revised, with the only
part shared with the earlier generations being the
side-repeater turn signal
lamp on non-U.S. models. A front wishbone/rear
multilink suspension was
used beginning with the
2006 MX-5 to increase
ride quality and handling.
Technologies like traction
control and stability control also were added.
Mazda North American
Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and
oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United
States and Mexico through