Mazda's current ND-gen MX-5 Miata has been widely praised for its exceptional handling and agility. The car's focus on lightness and affordability has made it a standout in the sports car market. However, 20 years ago, Mazda considered a drastic departure from this formula. In an interview with Autorai, Mazda Europe executive Christian Schultze revealed that an internal team experimented with a V-6-powered Miata.
The proposed engine would have been a 2.5-liter six-cylinder, which would have likely been used in an early NC-generation MX-5 chassis. This would have marked a significant shift from the car's current focus on lightness and affordability. Schultze noted that packaging concerns ultimately led to the abandonment of this concept, as the engine sat too high and required changes to the hood.
Despite the initial enthusiasm for the V-6-powered Miata, it was ultimately deemed not intriguing enough to pursue further. This decision reflects Mazda's commitment to maintaining its core values of lightness and affordability in its sports cars. The company has consistently prioritized these aspects over raw power and performance.
The fifth-generation MX-5 Miata is already expected to retain this focus on lightness, with Schultze stating that a bigger motor would add weight and impact the car's balance. This would compromise the steering response and handling that have long been part of the Miata's charm. Mazda is reportedly trying to keep current engines running for as long as possible.
Schultze also hinted at the possibility of variants of current engines, including a 1.5-liter engine not offered in the US market, continuing into the next generation. This would ensure that the Miata remains consistent with its core values while still offering some updates and improvements.
The name of the new model has yet to be confirmed, but it is expected to follow the current Miata naming convention. However, this decision will depend on various factors, including market trends and consumer demand.
Mazda's commitment to maintaining its core values in the face of changing market demands is a testament to the company's dedication to its heritage. The MX-5 Miata has always been a unique and consistent sports car, and it will be interesting to see how Mazda balances its desire for innovation with its need to stay true to its roots.
The idea of a V-6-powered MX-5 Miata would have significantly altered the car's character, potentially impacting its lightweight and affordability. This concept highlights the challenges of balancing competing priorities in the development of sports cars.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how Mazda navigates this delicate balance in the development of future models. The MX-5 Miata remains one of the most consistent and beloved sports cars on the market, and its continued success will depend on the company's ability to stay true to its core values while still offering some updates and improvements.
The idea of a V-6-powered MX-5 Miata would have significantly altered the car's character, potentially impacting its lightweight and affordability.
