| |
| |
|
Mazda MX5's Iconic Evolution
by Jenny McLane
Fresh from the wheels up, Mazda MX5 -- the world’s favorite roadster remains
true to the lightweight, fun to drive formula that sold more than 700,000 MX-5s
worldwide since its introduction in 1989.
The third generation Mazda MX-5 will be presented in October 2005 at the Geneva
and Melbourne motor shows. Intensity of spirit possessed by very few sports cars
– this was what Program Manager Takao Kijima has in mind when creating the
all-new Mazda MX-5.
The all-new Mazda MX5 epitomizes the Japanese word Jinba Ittai (rider and horse
as one).Jinba Ittai is akin to the bond between a single-seat formula-car pilot
and his racer which is the essence of Zoom-Zoom. The rider-and-horse idiom and
the effort to create a car universally seen as "lots of fun" served as the focal
point around the new Mazda MX5.
Mazda engineers to realise the Jinba Ittai concept defined the five basic
requirements: the car would be as compact and as light as possible while meeting
global safety requirements; the cockpit would comfortably accommodate two
full-stature occupants with no wasted space; the basic layout would continue
with the original’s front-midship rear-drive configuration with the engine
positioned ahead of the driver but behind the front axle for 50:50 weight
distribution; all four wheels would be attached by wishbone or multi-link
suspension systems to maximize tire performance, road grip and dynamic stability
and that a power-plant frame would again provide a solid connection between the
engine and rear-mounted differential to sharpen throttle response.
Mazda engineers made every gram count when they very well knew that extra weight
would have a dramatically negative influence on driving, cornering, and braking
performance. Their "gram strategy" assessed weight in the smallest possible
increments and carefully scrutinized weight-trimming opportunities. Other
weight-saving tactics were employed as well. Advanced technology was applied
where practical to achieve a light and rigid unibody design using materials that
offered higher strength and lighter weight.
The MX5 iconic roadster has indeed evolved as evident on its bold new look. The
classic "Coke bottle" shape of the contours was removed. The nose and tail are
smoothly tapered but now the surfaces wrap smoothly between the wheels without
narrowing. The fender arches of the new Mazda MX-5 are notably more pronounced
for a substantially wider wheel track dimensions and a more athletic stance.
Seventeen-inch wheels help define the corners of the car while there are modest
increases in wheelbase (+65 mm), length (+20 mm), width (+40 mm), and height
(+20 mm),
With Mazda’s new generation sport car architecture the car boasts 22 per cent
more flexural stiffness and a 47 per cent increase in torsion rigidity compared
with the former Mazda MX-5's.
Moving the engine rearward by 135 mm was a major step towards balancing
front-to-rear weight distribution and reducing the yaw moment of inertia. The
new car also benefits from ideal 50:50 weight distribution.
About the Author
What makes this Mazda
so special in the eyes and hands of car enthusiasts the world over? The parts
that make up every inch of the Mazda MX5 as the iconic roadster are one of the
reasons. You can come across super durable replacement parts on websites like
http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/Mazda. And you can be rest assured that
your Mazda MX-5 will be more capable, more comfortable, and more powerful.
Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on
cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market
Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.
|
|
 |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Australia-Wide products/services |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
| |
 |
|
Automotive Articles |
 |
|
Caliper Buying Tips |
Calipers are obtainable from supply stores for most automobiles. The prices of them range depending on....
|
|
|
|
Chevy Silverado Hybrid Pickup |
The Chevy Silverado hybrid pickup feature GM's 5300 Vortec V-8 and Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission, coupled with hybrid technology.
|
|
|
|
Aftermarket Truck Accessories |
Aftermarket truck accessories are what can separate your truck from the pack. This is an article by an aftermarket truck accessories enthusiast who loves his Chevy Blazer.
|
|
|
|
Tight Cars Satisfy Need for Speed |
There are many different types of cars that people love to drive in and the tight cars are ones that people love the look of. They have a sporty look and accommodate one's need for speed.
|
|
|
|
Car Buying Guide |
A guide to getting better car buying deals not only in terms of getting high quality cars but also in being aware of rebates and discounts.
|
|
|
|
 |
| |
|
