DRIVING: that's what it's ALL ABOUT! A blog and website for automotive driving enthusiasts, featuring my interests as I see them: news and opinion about manufacturers of interest, significant enthusiast cars, and driving them hard and well.
The MazdaSpeed3 configuration of this engine is shown to the right (click on the link for a high-res image). Of course the intercooler would have to be moved and some other plumbing would change. The HP and torque ratings could go up or down depending on these changes; it is known that a 300 HP version has been built for the future MazdaSpeed6 featuring a slightly larger turbo. Even without it, the HP and torque of the Miata could go up by 100 each.
The new Miata has an excellent suspension that will easily be up to the power increase. A little firmer tuning (or by providing the sport suspension as standard) and some additional negative camber up front would be desirable. To learn more about how the Miata is built, take my extensive cutaway tour of the Miata here: http://www.drivingenthusiast.net/sec-mazda/products/mx5-miata/default.htm
Before moving to the high-powered turbo (and very light weight) Miata, it'd be a good idea to visit Skip Barber: http://www.skipbarber.com/racing_school/racing_school.aspx The school would also be useful for S2000 or Solstice/Sky owners because of the similarities between the three cars.
Now let's discuss the competition:
The Solstice/Sky will get an increase in power, add a 6-speed manual, and offer an optional fixed to couple configuration in the 2009-2010 timeframe. The 6-speed has already been shown by Pontiac; the increase in power has already been discussed (the engine is certainly capable of more), and the coupe has already been announced. Hopefully, the terrible ergonomics of the car will improve int he same timeframe as well.
The Honda S2000 soldiers on pretty much as is for probably 2 years more. The CR model is new for 2008, although it will be in very limited release (~1400/yr) and most dealers probably won't have one. An eventual all-new S2000 has been discussed and is believed to be closer to a Miata competitor. Look for a 200 HP K engine to be the likely standard engine - it's mass-produced and will go a long way towards reducing the cost of the car (versus the current hand-built engine). If we're lucky, the Acura turbo 2.3 will be an option, enabling the car to compete one-for-one with the MazdaSpeed Miata and Solstice/Sky. If we're not, the car will be relegated to a secretary special, like the current Miata. It's hard to believe Honda could leave the S2000 at that.
The concept is pictured to the right. The FT-HS is the spiritual successor to the Supra. If this type of car goes into production, it will be smaller, lighter, better handling, and more powerful than the last Supra, although of course it won't have the ultimate HP potential of the infamous Supra TT. Nonetheless, it will truly move the state of the art forward. Art being both performance and hybrid.
