: Mazda - Miata

V8 Roadsters LLC Chevy Miata Swap

Sat, 16 May 2009 14:09:28 GMT

We've covered many different types of engines swaps into Miatas in the past - V-6 engines (SHO, Mazda), V-8 engines (Ford 4.9 small block), and even a Jaguar V-12. There are several companies building Ford V-8 swap kits for Miatas, but V-6 and V-12 folks are on their own (and so far there is only one V-12 swap - a heroic and very professional effort!).

The arrival of V8 Roadsters LLC makes an engine swap even easier, using a late-model Chevy LSX engine and a Ford 8.8" differential: http://www.v8roadsters.com

Pictures are below. Their site doesn't list every last part needed (considerably fabrication is needed - for example a fuel system), and the resulting car won't have the cachet of an authentic Monster Miata, but the end result looks thorough and should be reasonably reliable.

Jag V-12 swap into Miata

Sat, 16 May 2009 13:50:16 GMT

Seeing is believing, and this Jaguar V-12 swap into the impossible engine bay restrictions of a Miata would have seemed impossible... until an enterprising home builder did just that. Yes, it's beautiful - and yes we very much want one of our own.

Courtesy of YouTube, you can follow the build and first drive:

References:

HotRodders.com gives the builder a snotty reception: http://www.hotrodders.com/forum/v12-miata-142001.html (note the reaction of one idiot in particular on that site, before he realizes the builder is legit and jumps in with suggestions for an alternator problem)
Builder's photobucket site: http://s174.photobucket.com/albums/w92/brainsboy/
Builder's YouTube site: http://www.youtube.com/user/brainsboy

Freshened Miata MX-5 for 2009

Sat, 04 Oct 2008 02:29:14 GMT

A freshened MX-5 Miata for 2009 was announced this week at the Paris show. This is the same basic car as has been on the market for the past 4 years, with minor improvements and a new nose and tail. A notable improvement is the Recaro seat option - which hopefully will make it to North America (Federal regulations permitting). The rest of the changes fall under the heading of "continuous improvement" in the best Japanese tradition.

However - the Miata still doesn't have a real engine: while the manual transmission version finally receives a forged crankshaft this year (yikes, imagine that!>, the engine still doesn't make any real power. And Mazda's recent excuse as to why the 2.3 Turbo engine (the location of the high-pressure pump for the direct injection system would need to be moved) won't be offered is a really lousy lie. It won't be offered because it would then put the RX-8 in the grave, and they can't have that with the flagship. Especially with yet another ~~new oil burner~~ revised rotary engine coming in a couple of years (does anybody really care?). So the Miata will stay as it is: a great chassis... with a ho-hum engine.

Mazda Press Release follows:

The Freshened Mazda MX-5

The facelift MX-5 embodies the purest form of Zoom-Zoom. With evolved sensory

qualities, it continues to deliver the unchanging value of "Jinba-Ittai"despite the

changing world. Marking its 20th anniversary next year, the new MX-5 offers a "lots of

fun" driving experience underpinned by the untiring passion of Mazda’s engineers

since 1989.

Updates at a Glance

Newly evolved look that’s functional and instantly recognizable, as Mazda, and as MX-5

• Exterior styling with greater dynamism & athleticism, which contributes to superior aerodynamics

• Strongly emphasized a premium identity in the look and feel of the Roadster Coupe

More enhanced “Fun” to enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of the engine performance

• 500 rpm higher rev limit and the raised engine speed at max power

• Introduced a forged crankshaft, fully floating pistons and newly designed valve springs

• Sportier engine sound that responds more crisply to accelerator inputs

• Surge tank rigidity optimization, new forged crankshaft and ISE , Induction Sound Enhancer (for 6MT)

Smoother shifting feel with brisk and high-quality steering feel

• With 6MT, the meshing surfaces of the 1st–4th triple-cone synchronizers are now

carbon coated, and the 3rd–4th synchronizer diameter has been increased.

• Linear & sporty 6AT that’s newly available for Europe incorporates two new control

technologies, Direct Activematic (DAM) and Active Adaptive Shift (AAS).

• A lower front roll centre and retuned suspension make the car’s response to steering

inputs more linear and enable the driver to precisely trace desired lines. The yaw and

roll also feel more natural, producing a higher-quality ride

Improved quietness

• Roadster Coupe cockpit road noise with the roof closed is 2.1dB lower than before.

Improvements include urethane filling in the front suspension member and damping

material in the front roof section.

• Quietness is further promoted in the Roadster Coupe and soft-top version by stiffer

door modules and by newly added reinforcements on the No. 2 crossmember.

Environmental, safety and conformability

• More convenient features, ie., improved Bose®sound system, 5 step adjustable seat

heater, etc.

• Average fuel consumption and outside air temperature display is equipped

• More models featuring DSC as standard equipment

All information in this press copy is based on the specifications of the freshened Mazda MX-5

at the time of writing. Mazda’s product development is ongoing, so certain details of the vehicle

may change. For confirmation, please contact the nearest Mazda public relations

representative.

Introduction: Evolution Focused on Pure Jinba Ittai Enjoyment

At the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Mazda is unveiling the freshened Mazda MX-5 and Mazda

MX-5 Roadster Coupe.* Both versions of the facelifted MX-5 been refined for an even purer

experience of Jinba Ittai—the unique feeling of oneness between driver and car that has

distinguished the MX-5 since its inception.

Since launching the first-generation MX-5 in 1989, Mazda has stuck to the concept that driving

enjoyment is the key value offered by the MX-5. Through two full redesigns and countless

improvements, we’ve continued to heighten and improve the MX-5’s Jinba Ittai-focused “lots of

fun” character. We expanded the MX-5’s appeal to an even broader audience in 2006 with the

launch of the MX-5 Roadster Coupe. As demands for safety and environmental compatibility

have grown amid major changes in the automotive environment, we’ve continued to

incorporate new technologies and innovations without compromising the MX-5’s inherent

lightness.

With the latest MX-5 facelift, we set out to combine an enhanced Jinba Ittai feeling with

revisions that would further cement the MX-5’s reputation as the most enjoyable lightweight

two-seat sports car in the world. With the design, we retained the well-known friendly facial

expression while incorporating elements of Mazda’s latest design themes for a dynamic,

athletic look that embodies the MX-5’s function and purpose as a sports car. With the Roadster

Coupe, we strongly emphasized a premium identity in the look and feel of the body and cabin.

With regard to dynamic performance, we enhanced characteristics that appeal to the

emotions yet cannot be expressed in terms of catalogue specifications. For example, we

optimized the engine potential for greater enjoyment, created a sportier engine sound that

responds more crisply to accelerator inputs, and realized a brisk, high-quality steering feel that

gives a more linear response to movements of the steering wheel. And at the same time, we

enhanced the MX-5 in terms of comfort, convenience, fuel economy, and safety.

MX-5 Programme Manager Takao Kijima says: “Although the kind of driving experience that

people find enjoyable in a lightweight sports car never really changes, maintaining it in a

vehicle that must also meet the continually changing demands of society is a daily challenge

for Mazda engineers, and a particularly vital mission with the MX-5. Speaking as the engineer

in charge of MX-5 development, I’m convinced that the MX-5 is—and will remain—more

enjoyable than any competing car. I’m delighted that the new MX-5 and the newly evolved

Jinba Ittai fun that it offers will soon be thrilling customers who already embrace the MX-5

philosophy, and those who are about to encounter the MX-5 for the first time.”

*The version with a retractable hard top has various names according to market. In Europe, it’s

called the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe. In North America, it’s called the Mazda MX-5 Power

Retractable Hard Top. And in Japan, it’s called the Mazda Roadster Power Retractable Hard

Top.

Heritage

Worldwide Acclaim and More than 850,000 Units of Production

The MX-5 has enjoyed worldwide popularity since its first-generation debut in 1989. Indeed, it

is recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s highest-selling two-seat convertible

sports car in history. Since the launch of the third-generation model, the MX-5 has won more

than 175 accolades including the 2005–2006 Japan Car of the Year award; Wheels

magazine’s 2005 Car of the Year award; Top Gear magazine’s Roadster of the Year 2005

award; a place in Car and Driver magazine’s 2006 Ten Best Cars list; and selection by

Consumer Reports as the best 2008 car in the “fun to drive” category. Aggregate MX-5

production stood at 852,682 units at the end of July 2008, which looks set to be recognized

again by Guinness World Records as the highest-ever production volume for a two-seat

convertible sports car.

MX-5’s “Lots of Fun” Character

The “lots of fun” character conceived by Mazda for the MX-5 encompasses several kinds of

fun: the fun of driving it, the fun of seeing its great styling, the fun of personalizing it, the fun of

using it to get together with friends, and the fun of owning and using the MX-5 on a day-to-day

basis. And underpinning this “lots of fun” character is the feeling that Mazda calls Jinba Ittai.

An Uncompromising Focus on Lightness

In the third-generation MX-5’s development, Mazda engineers pursued the ‘gram’ strategy (a

programme of weight minimization on a component-by-component basis), used cutting-edge

technologies to make the body light and rigid, and adopted materials that were stronger and

lighter than those used in the second-generation MX-5. As a result, they were able to limit the

overall weight increase to just 10 kg (22 lb) and enhance performance at the same time. With

the latest facelift, the development team adopted new mechanicals and equipment throughout

the MX-5 but again kept the overall weight increase to an absolute minimum. The MX-5’s ideal

50:50 front/rear weight distribution and the reduced yaw-inertia moment achieved by Mazda

with the third-generation MX-5 are totally uncompromised.

Design

A Newly Evolved Look that’s Functional and Instantly Recognizable

Design and craftsmanship, which are encompassed, respectively, by the “styling” and

“touching” categories in the fishbone chart, are particularly crucial to a sports car since they’re

the main source of the car’s “fun to own” and “fun to use” characteristics. They must

complement and underpin the car’s functionality. With the latest MX-5 facelift, the development

team incorporated elements of Mazda’s newest design themes while carefully carrying

forward the simple and instantly recognizable personality that Mazda established with the

first-generation MX-5. The updated exterior styling reflects an evolution toward greater

dynamism and athleticism, and it contributes to superior aerodynamic performance. The

updated interior design realizes significantly enhanced quality and a more functional,

driver-friendly sports-car cockpit.

Exterior Design: A Fusion of New Mazda Elements and an Unmistakable MX-5 Look

The front grille has been enlarged and changed from an oval shape to the five-point grille that

forms part of the well-known Mazda family face. Combined with tautly styled headlights and

flowing fog-lamp bezels, the new grille creates a refined and athletic expression. To preserve

the character that has always been a hallmark of the MX-5, the five points of the grille are

slightly rounded. Also, the new shape of the front bumper, with corners that extend downwards,

enhances the dynamic look and improves the aerodynamics.

Viewed from the side, newly designed side sills form a character line that flows to the rear

bumper in a way that emphasizes speed and stability. The reshaped side sills deflect air away

from the rear wheels, and thereby contribute to superior aerodynamic performance.

The rear bumper has a new design that makes the rear look wider, sportier, and more

integrated into the body. The rear combination lamps inherit the traditional MX-5 elliptical motif,

and protrude further outboard for greater aerodynamic efficiency.

The Roadster Coupe’s more Upscale Identity

The MX-5 Roadster Coupe, which features a groundbreaking powered roof system, also

incorporates several design changes that further emphasize its more upscale identity and

distinguish it from the soft-top version.

• Front grille: Whereas the soft-top version has a fin-type grille, the Roadster Coupe has a

mesh grille that is framed by a chrome ring.

• Headlamp inner bezels: The headlamp inner bezels are painted silver on the soft-top

version, but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe.

• Fog-lamp inner bezels: The fog lamp inner bezels are black on the soft-top version, but

are painted silver on the Roadster Coupe.

• Outer door handles: The outer door handles are body-coloured on the soft-top version,

but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe.

• High-mounted stop lamp: The high-mounted stop lamp has a red lens on the soft-top

version, but a clear lens on the Roadster Coupe.

New Wheel Designs

The MX-5 is available with 16-inch and 17-inch aluminium wheels. The 16-inch wheels have

five sets of twin spokes for a lightweight look. The 17-inch wheels have 10 twisted spokes for a

stronger impression of power and dynamism.

Interior Design: Higher Than Ever Quality and Driver-Friendliness

The interior design delivers the MX-5’s traditional combination of comfortable snugness below

shoulder level and openness above shoulder level. It also reflects customer feedback in the

form of enhanced quality and driver-friendly features.

The decorative surfaces on the instrument panel have been changed from glossy piano black

to dark silver, which has a subtler, higher-quality look befitting a sports car. The meters have

new graphics for higher legibility. The climate-control dials on the centre stack have each been

given a silver-coloured ring for a higher-quality look. A protrusion has been eliminated from the

outer surface of each door pocket to create more leg space. And the door and centre-console

armrests have each been given a soft pad for a better feel.

Recaro seats designed exclusively for the MX-5 are available in certain regions. They are

upholstered in leather and perforated Alcantara® for a sporty look, and they combine excellent

support with easy ingress and egress.

Colour Variations

The MX-5 for Europe has a lineup of seven body colours including two new choices: Aluminium

Metallic (a mix of sportiness and refinement) and Metropolitan Grey Mica. The soft top is black.

Non-Recaro seats in the MX-5 for Europe are upholstered with black fabric or with black or

Dune Beige (not available in Europe) leather depending on grade. The leather and perforated

Alcantara® on the Recaro seats have a black-based two-tone colour scheme. The full lineup of

body colours is as follows:

Aluminium Metallic (new)

Metropolitan Grey Mica (new)

Sunflower Yellow (new; not available in Europe)

Copper Red Mica

Stormy Blue Mica

True Red

Brilliant Black

Marble White (soft-top version only)

*Alcantara® is a Registered Trademark owned by Alcantara S.p.A

Dynamic Performance

Evolved Jinba Ittai for Enhanced Fun-To-Drive

The Jinba Ittai feeling on which Mazda has always focused with the MX-5 defines the kind of

spontaneous car-and-driver interaction that anyone can experience whether they’re driving the

MX-5 in town, on twisty roads, or on an open highway. With the latest facelift, Mazda engineers

evolved the attributes in the “driving”, “cornering”, “braking”, and “listening” categories in the

fishbone chart to realize performance that lets drivers enjoy the feeling of oneness with the car

to an even greater degree.

A 500 rpm Higher Rev Limit Maximizes Engine Potential for Greater Enjoyment

The powertrain has been enhanced to enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of the

engine’s performance (a key “fun to drive” aspect of the MX-5). Specifically, the speed at which

the engine delivers maximum power has been raised from 6,700 rpm to 7,000 rpm (2.0-litre

M/T version) and the rev limit has been raised from 7,000 rpm to 7,500 rpm (all 2.0-litre

versions). Without these enhancements, the engine feels smooth and linear right up to the rev

limit, even with the throttle wide open. With them, however, the driver can really experience the

sensation of extracting every single horsepower out of the engine (the enhancements

described here apply to the 2.0-litre grades with a manual transmission). The crucial 500 rpm

increase in the rev limit is enabled by greater precision in the engine, namely: a forged

crankshaft (this ensures the required rigidity at high engine speeds), fully floating pistons and

newly designed valve springs.

A Sportier Engine Sound that Responds More Crisply to Accelerator Inputs

The engine sound (a key element in the “listening” category of the MX-5 fishbone chart) is a big

part of the sports car experience. With the latest facelift, Mazda engineers made the great

MX-5 engine sound even better without causing aural discomfort for people outside the car.

Notably, they increased the rigidity of the plastic surge tank in the intake manifold. The

optimized surge tank combines with the new forged crankshaft to realize a clearer engine

sound throughout the rev range. In vehicles with the six-speed manual transmission, the

engineers also adopted a newly developed device called an Induction Sound Enhancer (ISE).

This amplifies the pulses that occur when an accelerator input opens the throttle valve to

increase air flow into the engine, thereby delivering a more exciting sound to the cockpit. The

intake sound created by the ISE feels synchronized with the driver’s accelerator inputs, so the

driver enjoys a crisp, thrilling engine sound even when using the accelerator pedal gently to

adjust the revs for a downshift.

Newly Evolved and Refined Transmissions

With the six-speed manual transmission, the meshing surfaces of the 1st–4th triple-cone

synchronizers are now carbon coated, and the 3rd–4th synchronizer diameter has been

increased. These improvements enable smoother shifts up to the engine’s heightened rev limit

of 7,500 rpm.

A six-speed Activematic automatic transmission that’s newly available with the MX-5 for

Europe incorporates two new control technologies. One is Direct Activematic (DAM), which

allows the driver to quickly change gears using paddles on the steering wheel while still driving

in the “D” range. It was developed to enable quick downshifts for three common situations:

decelerating using engine braking on a downhill road; accelerating after decelerating into a

corner; and overtaking another vehicle. (The driver does not need to select the “M” range

before shifting down.) Since Direct Activematic enables engine braking and acceleration more

quickly and easily, it makes driving easier and more fun. The other new technology is Active

Adaptive Shift (AAS), by means of which the transmission control system evaluates the driving

situation from factors such as the road’s gradient and twistiness and the accelerator and brake

inputs. When the system recognizes enthusiastic driving, it actively promotes upshifts and

downshifts to realize a linear and sporty response that matches the driver’s intentions.

Handling that Further Heightens the Jinba Ittai Feeling

The MX-5 development team also heightened the Jinba Ittai feeling by comprehensively

refining attributes in the category that’s called “cornering” on the fishbone chart. A key

refinement was made to the front suspension knuckles. The ball joints’ vertical pivot position

was changed to reduce the height of the front roll centre by 26 mm. This decreased fluctuations

in the vertical loading on the outer wheel during cornering manoeuvres. Consequently, roll

movements caused by steering inputs feel more natural and the car’s response to steering

inputs is more linear. In combination with newly tuned suspension components, the revision

improves the Jinba Ittai steering feel whereby the driver can precisely trace desired lines. It

also realizes a higher-quality ride by making the yaw and roll feel more natural.

An Athletic Design that Heightens Aerodynamic Performance

To improve handling stability, quietness, and high-speed fuel economy, the MX-5 development

team drew on Mazda’s expertise in incorporating aerodynamic improvements into styling that’s

faithful to a design theme. The main aerodynamic improvements are as follows:

• air guides that protrude downward from the left and right corners of the front bumper

• a cover over the lower opening in the front bumper (Europe-specification vehicles, except

some specific markets)

• protruding rear combination lamps

• wider front tyre deflectors

As a result of these improvements, both the soft-top version and Roadster Coupe have top

class aerodynamics for their class.

Comfort and Utility

A Quieter Ride in the Roadster Coupe

Given the Roadster Coupe’s more upscale positioning, the development team produced a

quieter ride by reducing wheel resonance and adding damping and sound-insulating materials,

such as urethane filling in the front suspension crossmember and damping material in the front

part of the roof. Thanks to these improvements, road noise in the cockpit on a coarse road

surface with the roof closed is 2.1dB lower than before. Quietness is further promoted in the

Roadster Coupe and soft-top version by stiffer door modules and by newly added

reinforcements on the No. 2 crossmember.

New Equipment for Comfort and Convenience

• Bose® sound system (optional): New features such as a six channel equalizer (with

separate channels for the woofers and the door-mounted mid-to-high frequency speakers)

achieve clearer, more dynamic sound reproduction.

• AUX jack: Third-party audio devices can be connected to the car’s audio system. There is

also a 12V power socket.

• Bluetooth telephone system (optional): Hands-free communication is possible without

even having to physically plug in Bluetooth-capable mobile telephones. The driver can make

and accept calls using voice commands or controls mounted on the steering wheel.

• Improved seat heaters (optional): Shorter warmup times are complemented by five levels

of adjustability (as opposed to the previous on/off control) for greater comfort.

• Storage for small items: The divider that forms cupholders in the centre-console can be

removed to create a handy box for small items. There is also a net pocket on each door.

Ecology and Safety

Enhanced Environmental Performance for Greater Enjoyment

Mazda regards efforts to reduce fuel economy and exhaust emissions not only as a vital way to

protect the environment but also as a way to make sports cars more fun to drive.

With the latest MX-5 facelift, Mazda engineers addressed fuel economy by reducing the

rolling resistance of the tyres, reducing engine friction, and revising the transmission gear

ratios. Lower exhaust emissions were achieved through upgraded precious metals in the

catalytic converter. The MX-5’s improved emission performance complies with Japan’s

SU-LEV standard, the European Union’s Stage 4 standard, and the United States’ ULEV2

standard.

To promote eco-driving, the digital display on the instrument panel can show the average

fuel consumption (The display can be toggled between average fuel consumption, a double

tripmeter, and the outside air temperature.)

Rigorous Attention to Safety

Improved active safety on the European MX-5 is realized by expanded availability of a tyre

pressure monitoring system and by more models featuring Dynamic Stability Control as

standard equipment.

The MX-5 facelift will be introduced on the European market in early spring 2009.

Major Specifications: Mazda MX-5 for Europe (1)

(1) Data subject to homologation

###

Overall length 4,020 mm

Overall width 1,720 mm

Overall height 1,245 mm （ RHT 1,255mm）

Wheelbase 2,330 mm

Tread (front/rear) 1,490 mm/1,495 mm

Dimensions

Seating capacity 2 persons

Type MZR 1.8L I4 DOHC 16-valve

MZR 2.0L I4 DOHC 16-valve

Max. output (target) 1.8L: 93kW (126PS) / 6,500 rpm

2.0L with MT: 118kW (160PS) / 7,000 rpm

2.0L with AT: 118kW (160PS) / 6,700 rpm

Max. torque (target) 1.8L: 167Nm /4,500 rpm

2.0L: 188Nm /5,000 rpm

Engines

Bore x stroke 1.8L: 83.0 mm x 83.1 mm

2.0L: 87.5 mm x 83.1 mm

Transmissions Type 5-speed manual

6-speed manual

6-speed Activematic

Steering Type Rack and pinion

Suspension Type (front/rear) Double wishbone/multilink

Brakes Type (front/rear) Ventilated disc/solid disc

Tyres and wheels Tyres 16”: 205/50R 16 (front/rear)

17”: 205/45R 17 (front/rear)

Wheels 16”: 16x6 1/2J (front/rear)

17”: 17x7J (front/rear)

AWD Miata prototype spotted?

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 17:10:01 GMT

Spotted in California near the Mazda Design headquarters.

Could be a prototype for an upcoming all wheel drive version of the Miata...

... or it could just be some redneck hayseed with too much time on his hands.

Talk amongst yourselves....

;-)

Cosworth supercharger kit for the Miata

Thu, 22 May 2008 13:36:11 GMT

Real driving enthusiasts appreciate a wide variety of performance cars.. .so we'll take a break from my near-constant streeam of Camaro and Mustang news this week to relay you to the JDM Insider site for a report on the Cosworth supercharging kit for the Miata (er, MX-5).

It's nearly ready for sale and with 210 horses at the rear wheels it promises to transform the otherwise slow Miata into a real performance car. With excellent handling already built into the Miata, and with additional handling upgrades readily available, this kit looks to be the finishing touch to a very capable car. With the top down, this could be almost as much fun to drive as an S2000 - but with far more torque. And the weight of the new folding-metal hardtop option would be easily offset by all this newfound torque. Hmmm.......

Read the original story here: http://jdm-insider.com/Blogs/Eric/?p=898 (suggest right-click and Open in New Tab).

Big question: will an engine-driven supercharger on a high compression naturally-aspirated engine utilizing air-to-water intercooling stay cool enough for track days in extreme climates such as Texas? Most cars with this type of add-on equipment don't... so lot's more data is needed.

How to get real Best Motorings from Japan

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:12:06 GMT

Best Motorings are one of the greatest aspects of the hobby for Japanese car enthusiasts, but also one of the most frustrating. Why? Because it's been almost impossible to get original copies of them, and even harder to get them when they come out in Japan.

In case you're not familiar with Best Motoring, it's a monthly Japanese "car magazine" - in video form. The emphasis is on performance cars. There is usually a "battle" comparing several cars on a roadrace track. There is also testing on winding roads, on the Touge course, with drifting, and on occasion special tests such as a notable 0-300 KPH test. All the latest Japanese performance cars are tested, and occasionally they are tested against similar performance cars from Europe and North America. There is extensive in-car multiple-camera video and analysis; it's very clear which cars work better and why.

It comes in DVD form only, and that's one problem: it's region code is not compatible with 99.9%of DVD players sold in North America. DVDs worldwide are not all compatible, each geographic region has it's own "region code" and players sold in those regions can only play DVDs of the same region. So, if you want to play a DVD from Japan, you need to buy a region-free DVD player. That's not hard to do, nor is it expensive: you can get one from JList.com here in the United States. By coincidence, I bought a $30 dollar DVD player in my local food store that was unlocked. You can also find sites on the web showing how to unlock some models of players.

The drivers speak in Japanese, most of the text is in Japanese, but the performance numbers and most of the specs are all in English. Have patience and you'll learn a lot about your favorite cars.l

I've made it easier for my readers to get the real Best Motorings, as well as other videos such as Option and Hot Version as well as a large selection of Japanese magazines and books. Look at the top of my site for an Amazon store button and follow the link:

See my links for the items relevant to your particular area of interest
Read my special "how to" section about how to order on the Japanese website of Amazon (with screen-by-screen examples)
Follow the links to order.

Amazon makes it easy for you by handling the transaction - ordering is the same process as it is with any other Amazon site in the world.

Start your collection today! In my collection, I've got over 40 Best Motorings going back 10 years, as well as a large sampling of Option, Hot Version, and a number of special edition videos. My first Best Motoring was from 1998, which featured a 0-300 KPH battle of several tuner cars including Supras and GT-Rs. It was won by an 800-HP GT-R. Needless to say, I was hooked.

Monster Miata - Ford diff

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 16:13:52 GMT

Speaking of the Monster Miata (in followup to our last post), here's another view of an authentic Monster with the Ford diff added.

If you are buying a Monster, having this part is the sure way to get both durability and a reasonable RPM. The original Miata or RX-7 gears are in the 4:1 range, and that kind of gearing with the Ford T-5 (whether it's 3.27 or 2.95 first) is silly.

The diff is available in 7.5 or 8.8" size, aluminum or iron casing, and with or without a limited slip. The variations occur depending on donor car: SVT Mustang Cobra (IRS), Lincoln Mark-VIII, Cougar, or Thunderbird. BUT - note that only the 7.5" diff physically fits in this application.

Monster Miata variation with BMW Z3 body

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 15:51:57 GMT

A couple of months ago I wrote up the Monster Miata... it turned out to be one of my most popular posts ever: http://www.drivingenthusiast.net/sec-blog/2007/03/14.html

Here's a variation on the same theme: a V-8 Miata with a Z3-knockoff body. This car is on eBay right now... follow the link above.

It's in the same vein as a Monster Miata, but is not an authentic Monster. It was converted in the same way, then a custom one-off Z3-type body was added. The result is as you see below.

The good news is that it appears to be well built (I'd want to look at the fiberglass attachment points). It's also got the all-important Ford 8.8 IRS differential ( http://www.drivingenthusiast.net/sec-blog/2007/10/20.html#a2237 ), although IMHO the 3.73 gears are ridiculous. The bad news is that the tires are tiny... when they came up with the fiberglass body why didn't they add some room for appropriate-width tires? And don't even mention brakes.

In any case, this is unique and would make a fun ride. And while BMW's original Z3 ugly duckling was originally as slow as a stone, this one certainly is not.

AutoWeek - Miata to get 2.3 turbo engine next year

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 16:41:25 GMT

According to AutoWeek, http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070821/FREE/70820007/1024/LATESTNEWS , the MX-5 "Miata" will finally get the MazdaSpeed 2.3 liter turbo engine next year!

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/SD-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.

Mazda MX-5 Miata press release

Fri, 20 Apr 2007 21:23:35 GMT

This is the type of press release any good press agent will release periodically. Not really any new news, just the usual wording and probably in support of a spring sales drive.

I like the Miata... and anybody should appreciate a car that has always been about handling dynamics first and foremost. But, the world has moved forward, and the fabulous S2000 offers even more handling and another 50% power. So I'd like to see Mazda offer the trurbocharged 2.3 liter MazdaSpeed engine as an option. Then the car would have it all. And chances are that the upcoming all-new S2000 will have two similar engines offerings itself next time out - a base K20 and the new turbocharged K23 as an option. It's possible these two cars might be better matched after a few more years, but right now I wouldn't consider the Miata over the S2000. You'd always regret not having the power.

On this site, be sure to see ouy extensive collection of cut-away Miata pictures here: http://www.drivingenthusiast.net/sec-blog/2006/05/27.html#a1529 You'll also notice that we've recently added blog category indices for both "Mazda" and "MazdaSpeed" on this site.

Mazda press release follows:

MAZDA MX-5 MIATA: THE WORLD’S MOST POPULAR TWO-SEAT CONVERTIBLE SPORTS CAR

Award-winning, segment-saving, world’s best – just a few phrases to describe the legendary MX-5. All-new for 2006, the MX-5 won the prestigious Japan Car of the Year and was also named a Car and Driver “10 Best”. MX-5 also is known as the car that brought the affordable, fun-to-drive, two-seat roadster segment back to life in 1989 and has continued to set sales records since, making it the world’s best-selling two-seat roadster, and cementing Mazda’s place in the annals of sports car manufacturers.

As the ultimate ride for sheer driving and ownership pleasure the 2007 MX-5 Miata adds minor interior features and offers two new exterior colors. In addition, MX-5 adds a new Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) for 2007 (covered in separate release). Unchanged is the very essence of the “oneness of horse and rider” – the development credo of the original Miata – as elemental and as true as ever.

The heart of the MX-5 remains a highly-responsive MZR-series 2.0-liter, 166-horsepower (at 6,700 rpm) powerplant (163 for A/T models). The 2007 MX-5 has a light and compact engine, featuring chain-driven double overhead camshafts, lightweight fly wheel, variable intake valve timing, electronically controlled port fuel injection and coil-on-plug ignition. Revving smoothly to its 7,000 rpm redline, the 2.0-liter engine delivers 140 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm for driving exhilaration throughout the rev range.

“The MX-5 stands for pure driving exhilaration, as a daily driver and as a near race-ready car,” said Tetsu Nakazawa, MX-5 vehicle line manager. “Whether simply driving up the highway to work or speeding through the turns at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, the MX-5 offers loads of sporty driving pleasure and makes an ordinary drive spectacular.”

RACING DNA

Mazda, of course, has a distinguished history of producing great sports cars. The first Mazda sports car to win worldwide recognition and praise was the rotary-powered Cosmo Sport launched in 1967. The RX-7, which followed in 1978, won the hearts of sports car enthusiasts and claimed many important race victories. The original MX-5 Miata, launched in 1989 as a 1990 model, revolutionized the affordable two-seat roadster market. Two years ago, Mazda’s introduction of the RX-8 redefined the boundaries of sports car design by offering spectacular performance and comfortable accommodation for four adults in one innovative sports car package.

All of Mazda’s considerable expertise and passion for designing great sports cars was drawn on for the latest third-generation MX-5.

UNDERPININGS SUITABLE FOR THE TRACK

Too much weight is bad for athletes, and just as bad for sports cars. Weight hurts acceleration, throttle response, handling and agility. It negatively affects braking distances and fuel economy. Mazda engineers worked hard make the MX-5 light-weight – while building a roomy, safe car.

Weight-saving measures include the use of an aluminum hood and trunk lid and many aluminum suspension and braking components. There is widespread use of high-strength and ultra high-strength steel in the unitary construction body, which boosts body strength while simultaneously cutting weight. The 2.0-liter engine has an aluminum block and head, and the intake manifold and cam cover are made from lightweight composite plastic. In the end, MX-5 is very light weight, yet the car is roomy for tall or large adults, and safe for everyone, thanks to its strong body and safety features (including standard side airbags and ABS anti-lock brakes for all versions).

How is this combination possible? By utilizing the ‘gram strategy’. One of the imperatives for Mazda engineers was making every gram count by assessing the weight of the vehicle in the smallest possible increments. Under this ‘gram strategy’ imperative, for example, the design of the rear-view mirror was simplified, thus trimming 84 grams, or 0.19 lbs. While not a surmountable difference on its own, by applying this strategy throughout every nook and cranny of the MX-5’s design, Mazda engineers were quite effective in building a light, roomier, stronger and safer sports car.

Front suspension is by double wishbones, as in the best sports cars and race cars. They provide linear toe, caster, and camber changes as the wheels travel up and down. Anchor points are reinforced to provide the desired lateral stiffness and made from aluminum to reduce weight. No suspension system better relays feedback so accurately to the driver, nor induces such all-round stability. The new multilink rear suspension has long links to help linearity.

Springs are coil all round, and dampers are gas-filled for more accurate wheel control on difficult and taxing roads.

POWERFUL 2.0-LITER FOUR-CYLINDER ENGINE

The sophisticated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine gives strong performance, has an inspiring exhaust note, and most important of all, is brilliantly responsive. It reacts to driver commands with lightning-quick reflexes, and offers progressive power delivery. Such linearity is the key to all of the MX-5’s driving controls. The MZR-series engine is shared with the engine used in MAZDA3, MAZDA5, MAZDA6, CX-7, Tribute and B-Series.

The engine is mounted front mid-ship, for ideal handling balance and nimbleness. It uses an aluminum block and head for lighter weight and structural rigidity, ultimately improving performance and refinement. Chain-driven double-overhead camshafts and 16-valve breathing are used for improved revving and flexibility. Variable intake valve timing improves low-end torque and high-end power.

Maximum power is 166 horsepower at 6,700 rpm (163 horsepower for A/T models). For good tractability and ease-of-driving, at least 90 percent of peak torque (140 lb-ft) is available from 2,500 rpm to the 6,700 rpm redline. (Fuel cut off is at 7,000 rpm.)

Standard equipment is a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission, and a six-speed manual gearbox is available, with gear ratios close-stacked to enhance the joy of sporty driving. Short, quick shift strokes have been achieved by use of triple-cone synchros on the first four gears.

“Miata-like” shift quality quickly became the benchmark for the industry when the first MX-5 launched in 1989. The third generation MX-5 takes performance feel to an entirely new level – think, and the car all-but changes gears on its own.

A Sport A/T automatic transmission adds dimension to the MX-5’s personality. Six ratios are provided to improve acceleration, driving refinement and freeway comfort. Paddles mounted behind the steering wheel command upshifts while buttons positioned on the spokes are used for downshifts. Coordinating engine torque with the shift sequence, results in smooth, seamless, and fast gear changes. The Sport A/T-equipped car is a joy to drive, with gear ratios perfectly matched to the engine’s horsepower and torque output.

STYLISH TWO-SEATER

The design brief also was clear: To convey fun and modern styling but retain the iconic feel of the earlier generation MX-5 Miatas.

MX-5’s design is based on the original, but is new in every way. The first- and second-generation MX-5 Miata exterior design is a rounded shape with a wide footprint, large-radius corners and deep side contours. On the third generation, the Coke-bottle shaped center section is eliminated. Instead, the designers have used an entirely new oval shape in which the seating area is now the widest portion of the car. It makes for a roomier, safer cockpit and yet still expresses the compact look of a lightweight sports car.

Side surfacing is rounded yet taut – like the skin over a muscled body. Door mirrors continue the elliptical theme established by the original MX-5 Miata.

Head and tail lamps are mounted inboard to reinforce compactness, central to the car’s design philosophy. The tail lamps combine the traditional elliptical shape from previous design generations with new, modern materials. The rounded grille opening is similar to the original MX-5 Miata, and is part of the car’s iconic shape. The front bumper is clean and aerodynamically shaped. Seat-back bars add an eye-catching detail to the rear view.

Side skirts, tire-area deflectors and the front spoiler are designed to control airflow under the body and along its sides, minimizing drag.

The soft top provides a sporty, classic appearance with a flatter upper surface and a longer rear contour that flows smoothly into the rear deck. The lowered shape blends smoothly with surrounding body contours so well that no separate ‘tonneau’ cover is needed.

The Z-fold design makes erecting and folding the roof even easier. It uses a simple, central latch handle.

New for 2007 is a Power Retractable Hard Top model (covered in a separate release). This addition to the lineup builds on the soft-top two-seater’s zest for life by enhancing year-round comfort and security. Opening and closing cycles last only 12 seconds, making this the fastest power-operated retractable hard top in the U.S.

In addition, two new exterior colors are available for 2007 – Stormy Blue Metallic and Highland Green.

ENVIRONMENT TO ENJOY DRIVING

The interior design theme balances comfortable snugness below shoulder level with openness above, to give the impression of riding in open air.

The T-shaped instrument panel is consistent with Mazda design-DNA while the center console accentuates the backbone of the car. Strong horizontal and vertical theme lines connote rigidity and sports car capability. The black center stack is as simple and functional as possible. The arched hood over the instrument cluster and four circular vents are part of the MX-5’s cabin identity.

Wind in the hair is one thing, but nobody enjoys cockpit turbulence and buffeting, especially on long drives. Small quarter windows block drafts between the windshield pillars and door mirrors into the cockpit.

An aero board located between the seat back hoops is tall and perforated to slow down reverse-flow air that rushes into the cockpit. Mesh construction helps to reduce weight.

The quality of craftsmanship used in the MX-5 is quite unlike any MX-5 before. From the details of bright-trimmed gauges to the “piano-black” finish on the dash, the MX-5 feels and looks like a far more expensive vehicle than it actually is.

MODELS AND ACCESSORIES

The MX-5 Miata was conceived primarily for the US market, and throughout its 17-year history, America has always been the biggest market for what has become – easily – the world’s most popular two-seat convertible. The newly named-for-2007 Special Value model represents the least expensive way of getting into an MX-5. As with the next step-up MX-5, it gets a five-speed manual gearbox, 16-inch aluminum sports wheels, power-assisted door mirrors, dual exhausts, power windows, cloth upholstery, AM/FM/CD player with four speakers, dual front airbags and side airbags. In addition, the MX-5 gets air conditioning and a leather-covered steering wheel.

The Touring version, in addition, gets fog lamps, cruise control, Advanced Keyless Entry with retractable key and steering wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, and adds the Convenience Package for 2007.

The six-speed manual gearbox with leather shift knob is standard on the MX-5 Miata Sport, as are bigger 17-inch alloy sports wheels. The Grand Touring gets heated leather seats, faux leather door trim, cloth soft top, and a BOSE ® audio system with seven speakers.

When upgrading to the Grand Touring with Premium Package, the vehicle gets Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry & Start System. The top-range 3 rd Generation Limited adds exclusive Velocity Red paint with Red or Black leather upholstery, chrome grille, windshield trim, headlamp bezels, fog lamps bezels and door handles, chrome rings around the gauges and vents, silver instrument panel finisher, stainless steel scuff plates and unique-design 17-inch wheels with bright finish, among other unique features.

A Portable media (auxiliary) jack is standard on all trims.

All 2007 Mazdas come with a roadside assistance program. With a call to a toll-free number, owners can access roadside assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year throughout the United States and Canada. In addition, a comprehensive three-year/36,000-mile warranty covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. Also, all 2007 models receive a five-year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

One more look at the Monster Miata

Sat, 31 Mar 2007 14:05:02 GMT

In my earlier post on the topic, I covered what a Monster Miata is, how it's built, and added some thoughts about it's potential usefulness to a driving enthusiast.

Here's one last look at the topic, courtesy of a video from TNN:

All about the Monster Miata

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 15:13:47 GMT

The "Monster Miata" was the creation and product of Monster Motorsports, a defunct California company. The Monster was a Miata with a Ford 5-liter (actually 4.9) cast-iron block/heads OHV pushrod engine and a Borg-Warner T-5 transmission. The swap was easily accomplished - almost unbelievably the entire engine and transmission fit into the Miata as though it had been designed by Mazda for it (everything fits under the stock hood!). That and some appropriate springs, cooling, and exhaust (restrictive) made up the basic technical package and the cost started at several thousand dollars and the car. The much heavier Ford engine did add about 4 percentage points to the front/rear weight balance - and the car takes a corresponding amount of care to drive in turns.

Somewhere over 275 Monster Miatas were claimed to be built by Monster Motorsports. A couple of hundred unofficial conversions were made by other companies, and kits remain available from them to this day. RX-7 conversions are also possible since much of the chassis is shared.

Unique - but subtle - badging inside and out identified the car to anybody getting close enough to notice. The appearance of the entire car was very stealthy until you started it up: deaf "opponents" wouldn't know what hit them. Everybody else would get an aural shock.

The Monster was known to be over-geared since the Miata differential gearing was well over 4:1. Even the optional (and much stronger) RX-7 differential posed a problem in this regards. Since the 4.9L Ford was not a high-revving engine, this was an issue for cruising, and the gearing certainly wouldn't contribute to engine reliability either. Later cars offered the option of a Lincoln Mark VIII aluminum differential with much more appropriate gearing. Even later cars offered the entire MN-12 Thunderbird rear suspension, with very large flares to cover the added width - although only a few were built like this. Some of these cars were labelled as "Mega Monster" Miatas. Pricing could sky-rocket with options.

Like all good things, the "production" conversions were built for several years. Unfortunately, Monster Motorsports as a company appears to have folded - the original website was shut down some time ago.

Contrary to popular belief, the roughly 225 HP bone-stock Ford engine was the only standard conversion offering, since the car had to meet California emissions regulations. Monster Motorsports also offered some additional power-adders if California aftermarket certification was available for the year it was offered. Of course, given the popularity of the Ford engine, many different power-adding enhancements could be made by owners to take HP up considerably. But the car still had to meet any emissions regulations of wherever it was eventually licensed.

Conversions are an interesting consideration for the enthusiast. California (and most state) laws allow engine conversions if the engine is from the same production year of the recipient car or newer. 4-cam Acura B16 engines are a popular swap in earlier Civics, and even better is a B18 or even an R model engine. There are also some very narrow circumstances where JDM engines that were never certified for the U.S. are certifiable in certain situations - you'll note a number of people swap engines in their 240SXs for the 2 liter turbo offered in Japan. One enthusiast in Dallas built a V-8 powered Lexus IS300 - an option the factory considered but never offered. But by and large conversions are becoming a thing of the past for late model cars, the electronics are becoming too difficult and the emissions certifications are legally and technically impossible. Swaps such as a late-nineties Supra TT engine into an S2000 would be impossible to certify and register in most counties given the trend of emissions laws and testing. But there is another reason to do swaps - and that's for the technical challenge. That's one reason I can understand.

Enthusiasts should also consider the value of a classic car.. Would an classic 240Z, for example, maintain it's value as a classic with a Chevy V-8 under the hood? The answer is a resounding "NO!", and technically the chassis is so dated anyway that the net functional result is debatable. The slightly more modern early Miata has a better chassis, but the functionality is still limited. But there are so many Miatas on the road their value as a classic is small-to-nil. So if a conversion is a must, then "Monster" the Miata!

The following car is currently offered for sale on eBay . This is a great example and from the ad it appears to be clean. It has the Mark VIII differential and some odd aftermarket headlamps, as well as Ford Motorsports GT-40 intake (I would check to see if it also received the proper matching heads and an appropriate cam). It would apparently be a worthwhile collectible - although I also feel that a close-up inspection would be advised.

This example has an added GT-40 intake. Note my suggestion above. All Monster Miatas used an open air filter - there wasn't room for anything else. Some sort of partition would have been a good idea so that the engine doesn't have to suck up hot engine compartment air at idle. Note that the car has AC, but not power steering.

Exhaust routing was a major problem - there was only room for a single exhaust pipe past the cats, although for the sake of appearance it does split at the bumper. The muffler in this example appears to be a flowmaster - which likely wasn't the original equipment. If this is the case, then the use of the car should be looked into - it may have been used for drag racing. You can also see that the new differential required customer mounts and half-shafts that are different from the original Mark VIII mounting design (the rearmost bushing isn't used). Many of us are familiar with that differential from it's later use in 1999-2004 IRS-equipped Mustang Cobras and it would be plenty strong for this engine.

Badging is custom-sewn into the seats (either factory cloth or leather). There is also a nicely made external badge on the top edge of the front bumper. Additional off-the-shelf Ford badging is also available.

The Monster Miata is definitely collectable. An example built by Monster Motorsports would be much preferred. Look for the proper paperwork to guarantee authenticity.

For the performance driving enthusiast, a Monster might work in some autocross classes, although it would be a fully prepared class and the competition would be very tough.

For open track events it's be at a disadvantage because of the tiny Miata brakes. Some big-brakes kits are avialable and would definitely be needed.

In either case, durability is a open question: will the 4-cylinder chassis hold up to V-8 torque? Certainly the Miata differential, control arms, mounting points, and rear wheel bearings would be potential issues. Straight-lining the car would be a very poor choice.

For the Sunday cruiser, the car would probably be a good alternative to a Sunbeam Tiger. Brakes, transmission, and cooling are probably all superior. The Tiger is far more collectible, and owners should certainly take care to preserve their examples. But the Monster Miata is more easily repairable, and given the very large numbers of Miatas available standard Miata parts are not likely to be an issue. Some re-welding and fabrication may be needed at some point to keep the rear suspension together.

Collectors will find several road tests are available, including two in Road & Track that I remember. Monster Miatas are very rarely for sale, and any potential buyers should look the car over very carefully and also get any and all original literature from the seller.

Internet references:

Panache: http://www.monstermiata.com/ The original Monster Miata website has been redirected to this one. Parts "kits" are available as is a "big brake" kit.
Bishop Sales: http://www.bishopsales.com/v8_monster_miata.html - another conversion parts company.
Enthusiast Scott Keen: http://www.scottkeen.com/miata/megamonster.asp
Enthusiast info and 1992 model for sale: http://www.highwayone.com/Classifieds/Mazda/01aaai.html
1992 model for sale: http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/car/292180781.html
Mega-Monster Miata article form Australia: http://autospeed.drive.com.au/cms/A_0824/article.html
Enthsuaist/owner John Burch: http://www.miata.net/motm/2004/burch.html
1992 model: http://mywebpages.comcast.net/hartzfeld/92Monster.html

DrivingEnthusiast.net references:

Index of engine swap posts: http://www.drivingenthusiast.net/sec-blog/categories/engineSwaps/posts.html

Feb 2007: Comparison of S2000 sales versus Miata and RX-8

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 10:59:29 GMT

These two graphics are taken drectly from the February sales calls of Honda and Mazda. As you'd expect, the Miata is out-selling the S2000 by far. However, a surprise: so is the RX-8. After years of stacking up on lots (a local dealer used to offer them for $250/month) and numerous mechanical issues (and a bad rep for them), the car is actually selling well.

800,000TH MX-5 MIATA

Sat, 10 Feb 2007 13:05:38 GMT

Need a great platform for a race car build-up? The attached press release by Mazda today means there are 800,000 examples to choose from.

The Miata makes for a great autocross or track car. Clean early examples can be found for only a few thousand dollars... later examples with the desirable 1.8 liter engine can be found for just a few thousand more. Parts are inexpensive, race wheels and tires are cheap, and the only limitation is ultimate power. This is the car that demonstrates that handling will always get you more than power on the track.

MAZDA ZOOMS 800,000TH MX-5 MIATA OFF PRODUCTION LINE

-The world’s best-selling, open-top, two-seat sports car sets a new record-

IRVINE, Calif. - Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the production of the 800,000 th MX-5 Miata. Total global production of the MX-5 Miata reached this significant milestone on January 30, 2007 – 17 years and nine months after production commenced in April 1989.

“The original MX-5 Miata reinvented the small, open-top sportscar when it hit the market,” said Jim O’Sullivan, President and CEO, Mazda North American Operations. “The car business is a marathon, not a sprint, and only those vehicles with timeless styling, outstanding value and the very example of ‘fun-to-drive’ become icons. MX-5 is one of those.”

The MX-5 Miata, also known as the Roadster in Japan, was certified as the world’s top-selling lightweight, open-top, two-seat sports car by Guinness World Records when production reached 531,890 units in May 2000. Now that cumulative production has topped 800,000 units, Mazda is reapplying with the Guinness organization to have the record updated.

The current third generation MX-5 was launched in August 2005. As a lightweight, open-top sports car, it features enhanced driving performance through carefully scrutinized savings in body weight, optimal weight distribution and the latest features to meet safety and environmental requirements. In August 2006, Mazda added the Power

Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) model to the MX-5 lineup. The fastest power-operated retractable hard top in the U.S., the MX-5 PRHT features opening and closing cycles that last only 12 seconds and a groundbreaking electric roof system that does not sacrifice trunk space.

To date, the MX-5 has won more than 40 awards, including 2005-2006 Japan Car of The Year, and enjoys worldwide acclaim.

Mazda will continue to evolve the MX-5 and carry forward the “Jinba Ittai” (rider and horse as one) concept of the original, so that even more people will have the chance to experience the fun of a car that responds precisely as the driver intends.

Solstice vs Miata - Best Motoring video

Mon, 04 Sep 2006 12:28:33 GMT

Only on YouTube: a comparison test of the Solstice versus the Miata. From Best Motoring.

Part 2:

More detailed images of the Mazda MX-5 hardtop

Wed, 23 Aug 2006 12:46:23 GMT

Retractible hardtops aren't a new science, but they have made a comeback in recent years.

Mazda's surprise announcement is just that - a surprise and perhaps a feature nobody was calling for. Will Mazda create it's own market? Time will tell...

Meanwhile, I am as always fascinated by "how things work", and this is an interesting new feature to examine.

My first view of the press photos revealed some unsual work on the rear deck. The top actually folds down inside the space formally occupied by the ragtop - only minimally impacting truck space. Compare this to Mercedes or the Caddy XLR. Heck, compare it to the rediculous Solstice and Sky tops - their worst feature. 12 seconds after you press the button, the top is down. This is roughly equivalent to the time it takes to put a Mustang ragtop down, but nowhere near as good as an S2000 (6 seconds). 6 seconds is good at a traffic stoplight... 12 seconds woudl take some planning. And it would distract the other drivers!

So in the back you have this lump stuck in the middle for the CHIMSL. It's almost an afterthought.

A large piece (probably composite) covers the top mechanism when the top is up or down. I'd call it a "bonnet", although that means the "hood" to the British.

When up, the top is weather-proofed with rubber seals. You can see what I've called the "bonnet" covering up the area where the top folds down into. There are gaps between the peices - most notably at the base of the window.

Another view, with the top down. The "bonnet" covers the top and the mechanism when it's retracted. I have to wonder if the leading edge of the bonnet (notice how it sticks up) would create some wind noise at speed.

View from the back, retracted:

Retracting the top is really fairly simple - compared to the competition. And Mazda engineers were very creative when they decided to put the retracted top in the space normaly occupied by the ragtop. This really smart approach has minimal impact to the trunk space. The result is a car that you can actually use to go places.

Closeup view of the "bonnet" at the lower edge of the side window. It looks tight here. I wonder if adjustment will be needed after a certain period of time or mileage, and how it is done?

The gaps in the roof when up are clear. Rubber seals are used to waterproof this. We'll have to wait to get a report back from an owner as to how effedtive this is... in a storm or in a carwash.

The seals appear to have a small drip channel built in. The back part of the main roof portion has these large hinges built in. Kids, watch your fingers when the top is going down!

The double-hinges lift the "bonnet" and then lower it again when the top is retracted. There appears to be some sort of locking mechanism hanging down...?

Closer view of the drivers side mechanism.

All in all, a very creative effort - and clearly one that was designed along with the rest of the car. In order for the rear window portion to fold so neatly into the inside of the car, and still allow room for the roof portion to sit on top of it, this clearly would have had to have been designed for this on day 1. Kudos to Mazda!

But not lets work on a *real* engine for the Miata. As delivered, the ragtop version is about 1 thenth of a second faster to 60 and the quarter mile than the Solstice. And that same small advantage continues for handling. Mazda is certainly capable of creating a 190-200 HP engine for the car as the base 2 liter engine... and a 300-horsepower turbocharged engine for a MazdaSpeed version. We need the same type of creativity that went into the top to be demonstrated in this area as well!

2007 MAZDA MX-5 MIATA POWER RETRACTABLE HARD TOP

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 14:21:49 GMT

Been wondering how the power hardtop operates on the new MX-5? This sequence of images shows how.

+80 pounds of weight, no engine or gearing times to makeup for it.

12 seconds to open or close (not bad, an S2000 is 6 by comparison).

Press release follows.

2007 MAZDA MX-5 MIATA POWER RETRACTABLE HARD TOP

The two-seat roadster elevated to the next level of refinement

IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 18, 2006. - Adding a new dimension to the Mazda MX-5 without diminishing its driving joy is no mean feat. The MX-5 is, after all, the icon of two-seat roadsters, the car that reinvented the category in 1989 and nurtured the elemental sports car through three generations. Fiddling with the MX-5 – the world’s best-selling two-seat roadster – is like messing with the Mona Lisa: tidy brush strokes hold the only hope of success.

While the third-generation MX-5 has earned more than its share of praise — including dozens of magazine and newspaper awards — Mazda is vigilant for opportunities to extend the reach of the car that sets the Zoom-Zoom tone for its entire range of vehicles. That’s why there’s a new MX-5 kid on the block. This addition to the lineup builds on the soft-top two-seater’s zest for life by enhancing year-round comfort and security with a new Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT).

MX-5 Program Manager Takao Kijima, who has helped mind Mazda’s roadster from the program’s inception, set lofty standards for the PRHT edition. After sweating each and every gram of the third-generation’s mass, Kijima-san wasn’t about to condone any significant increase in curb weight. Nor would he stand for any deterioration in structural stiffness because chassis rigidity is also key to the MX-5’s vitality. Since the MX-5’s soft top is one of the handiest folding roofs ever invented, and remains the industry-standard for manual folding tops, the PRHT engineering team identified operating convenience as the third tall peak they would climb.

Fortunately, Mazda engineers can draw from a wealth of convertible experience. The firm’s first soft-top model was the Familia Cabriolet, introduced in 1985 for sale in Japan, but never sold in the U.S. Its manual-folding soft top was an advanced three-layer piece, offering durability and the feel of a closed car, top up. The Familia Cabriolet also featured Mazda’s first effort at a wind blocking device, as engineers determined that it was the intrusion of air from behind the seats that limited how late into the season it was comfortable to drive with the top down.

Mazda’s next convertible was based on the second-generation RX-7, and was distributed globally beginning in 1988. In addition to developing an innovative power soft-top that featured a solid targa-style removable center panel, Mazda RX-7 engineers also introduced to the world the Windblocker TM. This unique hard folding panel behind the seats dramatically reduced cockpit turbulence, and has become standard or optional since on virtually every convertible sold.

One year later, the original MX-5 Miata was born to universal acclaim. In May 2000, the Guinness Book of World Records recognized the Mazda MX-5 as the best-selling two-seat convertible sports car in history. The first-generation Miata featured a simple-to-operate top that could be folded in seconds, from the driver’s seat. Simply unzip the plastic rear window, release the two windshield header latches and push the top back. What could be easier? A simple vinyl boot cover was used to protect the lowered top.

Only the second-generation Miata could have been more simple, as the introduction of a heated glass back-window meant the window no longer had to be unzipped before dropping the top. Now all you had to do was unlatch from the windshield header and push the top back. The simple boot cover was carried over.

And then, of course, the third-generation Miata – the all-new-for-2006

MX-5 – reinvented the concept of easy-to-use tops, as its innovative top eschewed even the need for a boot cover. Absolutely the finest soft top in the industry.

Folding hard tops have existed in various forms since the 1940s. In exchange for their smoother appearance, tighter sealing, quieter cockpit and increased security, they have historically imposed significant penalties. The roof itself is generally heavier and the motors and mechanisms used to automate its operation increase weight, cost and complexity. Usually, it’s necessary for the driver to secure a partition in the trunk to make sure that luggage doesn’t foul the folded top. But the dearest sacrifice of all is to luggage room: some folding hard tops consume practically all the luggage space in exchange for letting the sun shine on the cockpit.

To preserve the MX-5’s fun-loving spirit and love of weekend getaways, the new PRHT performs what seems like a magic trick: disappearing on cue when the ‘open’ button is pressed. The MX-5’s trunk provides a just-right 5.3 cubic feet of capacity whether the roof is hard or soft, stowed or over head.

To achieve this breakthrough in hard-top convertible design, the MX-5 PRHT’s roof consists of three major parts—a front section, a middle section, and the rear window—which hinge and move to nest atop one another in exactly the same space as the soft top.

The two roof sections fold like a clamshell; the window separates from the middle section and moves forward to the in-between space. And, rather than consuming interior or trunk room, the folded roof descends into the same storage well located above the rear axle and the fuel tank where the soft top would have resided. A deck cover mates with the top in the closed mode and shrouds the folded top from view in the open mode.

A center locking handle secures the PRHT to the windshield frame. Two buttons positioned at the top-center of the MX-5’s instrument panel command the opening and closing operations. Signals sent from those buttons to an electronic control unit (ECU) are forwarded to four small, quiet-running electric motors—two operate the folding hard top, two raise and lower the deck cover. The ECU makes sure the car is stopped, the ignition switch is on, and the transmission is in neutral or park before moving the PRHT. To avoid interference with the top, side windows are automatically lowered several inches. Opening and closing cycles last only 12 seconds, making this the fastest power-operated retractable hard top in the U.S. An indicator lamp and warning beeps advise the driver when the operation is complete.

To keep the PRHT both light and compact, it’s constructed of advanced high-strength materials. The front and middle section exterior panels are made of sheet molding compound. Interior panels are glass-fiber-reinforced polypropylene. The assembled panels are barely three-quarters of an inch thick yet they provide an attractive appearance and do an excellent job of blocking wind and road noise. The rear window is glass imprinted with an electric defroster grid.

To maintain body rigidity with an opening that’s 1.8-inches wider and 3.2-inches longer than the soft-top’s aperture, material thicknesses of the body panels surrounding the opening have been increased and two corner-reinforcing brackets have been added. Closed-section reinforcements also extend from the rear deck along the outer edges of the top storage well. The deck lid changes from aluminum in the MX-5 soft-top to steel for the PRHT to accommodate contours added for an attractive appearance. Altogether, the net weight increase over the soft-top model is only approximately 80 pounds (depending on trim levels), quite reasonable considering the benefits delivered.

Minor suspension adjustments were in order to maintain the quick steering response and predictable handling expected of MX-5. Dampers are firmer, rear spring rates are higher, and the front anti-roll bar has been increased from 0.83-in. to 0.87-in. in diameter.

Like the soft-top MX-5, the PRHT edition has a wind deflector to block cockpit drafts. A 1.3-inch-high air guide runs the full width of the deflector to reduce the energy of the back draft impinging the driver and passenger. With the top raised, interior noise level with the PRHT is reduced in comparison with the soft-top MX-5.

Design changes to accommodate the MX-5’s PRHT are especially gentle brush strokes. To integrate the appearance of the deck cover, an accent crease flows from each door over and around the width of the panel. Longitudinal contours molded into the outer edges of the two roof sections add tension at the top of the car. The rear window is larger than that provided in the soft top for a balanced look. Overall height is only 0.39-in. greater than the soft-top MX-5.

MX-5 PRHT models wear a fine chrome ring around the grille opening, bright bezels inside the headlamps and a chrome band in each door handle. A white-lens CHMSL is another distinctive touch.

Two new exterior colors—Stormy Blue Mica and Highland Green Mica—replace Winning Blue Metallic and Nordic Green Mica in the MX-5 palette. Copper Red Mica, Galaxy Grey Mica, Sunlight Silver Metallic, True Red, and Brilliant Black are also offered. Three interior packages—black fabric, black leather, and saddle-tan leather—carry over from the MX-5 soft top.

The Mazda MX-5 PRHT is a more sophisticated two-seat roadster for owners who prize top-down driving but also want the poise and security of a hard roof over their heads during inclement weather. It’s the best of both worlds—wind- in-the-hair driving joy plus peace of mind—at the touch of a button.

PistonHeads: Can't advertise having fun in a Miata

Wed, 21 Jun 2006 10:58:27 GMT

In Britain, you apparently can't advertise that your product might be fun to use. Look what happened to Mazda.

[Continue at link]

2007 Mazda MX-5 Power Retractable Hard Top

Wed, 21 Jun 2006 03:55:50 GMT

MAZDA TO EXHIBIT NEW MAZDA MX-5 MIATA WITH POWER RETRACTABLE HARD TOP

Mazda MX-5 Miata Power Retractable Hard Top

IRVINE , Calif. — Mazda Motor Corporation will make the global debut of the Mazda MX-5 Miata Power Retractable Hard Top at the 2006 British International Motor Show in London, England. Since its launch in 1990, and with subsequent generations launched in 1999 and 2006, MX-5 Miata has always been available with an optional removable hardtop, but this is the first time the car will be available with a power-operated retractable hard top.

The British International Motor Show will be held in London from Tuesday, July 18, through Sunday, July 30, 2006.

Featuring a new, unique power retractable hard top roof, this is an all-new addition to the third-generation Mazda MX-5 which launched in late 2005 as a 2006 model. This new Mazda MX-5 provides a unified sense of driving exhilaration, ready to spread the fun of lightweight sports cars in diverse and distinct new ways, regardless of the weather.

“Jinba Ittai”—or ’rider and horse as one’ is the essence of Mazda MX-5, the expression reflecting the emotional connection between a horse and rider.

Mazda MX-5 Miata Power Retractable Hard Top (European Specification)

Along with the global debut of the MX-5 Power Retractable Hard Top, the Mazda Sassou and Kabura concept vehicles will also be shown.

Mazda will hold a press conference on Tuesday, July 18, 2006 at 11:45 a.m. (British Summer Time).

Mazda MX-5 with a power retractable hard top roof will be known by different names around the world:

North America:	Mazda MX-5 Power Retractable Hard Top
Europe:	Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe
Japan:	Mazda Roadster Power Retractable Hard Top

Pride of ownership - engine compartments

Sat, 27 May 2006 13:44:34 GMT

As I was writing my new Miata "tour" section, I came across a couple of pictures of interest. Following are engine compartment pictures of three current sports cars: S2000, Solstice, and Miata.

The visual differences are very apparent: which car has the engine compartment you'd want to show your friends?

The S2000 (of course):

By contrast, the Solstice engine is covered by a large peice of plastic - you can't see it at all (note that the air intake is aftermarket, otherwise it'd be a dull black hose).

And the Miata engine is also covered. The engine compartment itself is a mess of hoses, covers, and plastic.

Of course, the most important element is the driving dynamics - not appearances. And the S2000 wins hands-down there again.

But when you are done with the driving, and people wonder what kind of engine you have, it's a pleasure to show it off. Sports car fanatics want to examine engines in detail - compare and contrast parts, look for differences, imagine ease of modification. Only the S2000 engine compartment is inherently designed to that purpose.