Super TestCar reviews - Mazda - MX-5 - convertibleMazda modelsOverview18 Nov 1989 MAZDA turned the sports car world onto its ear with the timeless Mk1 MX-5. Using the original Lotus Elan as inspiration, Mazda added space, comfort, reliability, useability and economy to the lightweight rear-wheel drive concept. And since driving pleasure was a priority, the MX-5 was engineered with a front mid-mounted engine layout for a 50:50 weight distribution, a very rigid body, quick rack and pinion steering, and double wishbone suspension. The result was a sensational handling roadster that also offered stunning style thanks to a hint of retro design. Worldwide acclaim and huge sales followed. The beautifully balanced chassis benefited from Mazda’s sweet revving 85kW 1.6L twin-cam 16-valve motor mated to a fine 5-speed manual gearshift. The simple manual roof mechanism has not been bettered, while a detachable plastic hardtop was an option. Beautiful details abounded, from the rorty exhaust note and chrome trim to the gorgeous 7-spoke alloy wheels. But it's the basic rightness of the package that makes the MX-5, especially in its earliest 1.6-litre form, one of the all-time great sports cars... Model release date: 1 October 1989 to 1 November 1993 All car reviewsAlfa Romeo Abarth Alpine Alpina Audi Aston Martin BMW Bentley Chevrolet Chery Citroen Chrysler Dodge Cupra Ferrari DS Ford Fiat FPV Foton GWM Great Wall Holden Haval HSV Honda Hyundai Hummer Isuzu Infiniti Jeep Jaguar Lamborghini Kia LDV Land Rover Lotus Lexus Maserati Mahindra McLaren Mazda Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-AMG Mini MG Nissan Mitsubishi Peugeot Opel Proton Porsche Renault Ram Rover Rolls-Royce Skoda Saab SsangYong Smart Suzuki Subaru Toyota Tesla Volvo Volkswagen |
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