July 1, 2009 6:00 AM PDT
Even smaller Mazda roadster rumored
by Antuan Goodwin
Model year bloat is an inevitability. Automotive models get bigger with each passing iteration. Even the bantam-weight Mazda MX-5 Miata is not immune and has grown substantially in the 20 years that it's been in production. Auto Express News thinks that Mazda is working on a smaller MX-2 roadster to slot beneath the growing MX-5 roadster.
If the rumors are to be believed, the micro-Miata will be powered by a smaller engine than the MX-5. Expect to see a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with both naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants, the latter making about 160 horsepower. If those numbers seem a little low, try to remember that we're talking about a vehicle that should be about the same size and weight as the first-generation Miata--only with about 30 more horsepower.
Auto Express News' sources hint that the Mazda MX-2 could be on roads as early as 2012.
Mazda MX-2 Revealed
Mazda's secret new roadster revealed
his is Mazda’s version of a downsized, credit-crunch friendly MX-5, the MX-2.
Our illustration shows what the MX-2 is likely to look like. You can see that the Furai concept will have a strong influence in the design, while a hint of Ferrari California is also present in the headlamps.
Because the MX-2 is smaller than the MX-5 it will come equipped with smaller engines. Small capacity petrol engines ranging from 0.7 to 1.6-litres will get the MX-2 moving, while a range-topping 1.6-litre turbo pushing out an expected 160bhp. Combine that with low weight, and the MX-2 will embarrass more expensive machines with ease.
The Mini Speedster and Nissan Urge may be at design and concept stage now, but they’ll be keeping the dinky Mazda on its toes.
An insider has hinted that the MX-2 will be upon us as soon as 2012, so we can expect to see a concept reflecting the ‘downsized roadster’ very soon.
Solsticeman (aka Bob L.) Have not talked to you in a while. Just want you to know you are doing a good job at GM. I thought you could have done something to save our Solstices from the hatchet.
Oh by the way....I know that YOU know that I know.....and you still deny it.
Solsticeman (aka Bob L.) Have not talked to you in a while. Just want you to know you are doing a good job at GM. I thought you could have done something to save our Solstices from the hatchet.
Oh by the way....I know that YOU know that I know.....and you still deny it.
If I were bob L, do you really think I'd hide it? Seriously?
Yes, indeed. I saw this a couple weeks ago come through on a news service I watch and it did peak my intrest. Especially if they go with the 1.6L like the 1st gen Miata's, those are very fun cars. Also if they could get it out around the 1st gen Miata's around 2150#.
Have to admit I'm a little suprised that Mazda may build another 'un. From the picture, the little squirt does look pretty good though, and the thought of Gen. 1 purity is appealing.
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