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| Mazda
MX5 - SA launch |
Broadcast
dates : 18th December 2005
24th December 2005 |
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The
Mazda MX5 can take credit for re-inventing the sports car
genre. Launched in 1989, and based unashamedly on the Lotus
Elan, the MX5 spawned a host of imitators, including the
likes of the BMW Z3 and the Mercedes-Benz SLK.
The MX5’s strength is that it retains strong links to its
design DNA. The latest car is evolutionary, not
revolutionary. It’s a beefier version in third-generation
form.
It’s the classical mechanical layout of the MX5 that has
made it so successful. Front-engined, rear-wheel-drive. When
the first-generation car was launched in America, dealers
were adding up to 30 per cent on its list price, because
demand was so high.
The MX5 has avoided the trap that the likes of BMW and Merc
have fallen into – making ever-more powerful versions and
losing the quintessential sports car vibe.
The Mazda’s power output and grip remain modest –
enabling the open-top experience to be enjoyed in full.
The new car is still classic in its approach, with a sense
of its own heritage. There are few concessions to hi-tech,
and every feature has been carefully considered.
We liked the vibi-ness of the tan upholstery, but it does
highlight a cheapness to some of the plastic. Boring-old
black would have been better.
A 200 cc increase in engine size has boosted power to a 118
kiloWatts. And with weight having increased by just 10
kilograms, the new MX5 is sportier than ever in all
respects.
The front-engined, rear-wheel-drive configuration means
predictable sports car handling.
Mazda is well aware that its success formula is precious,
and the MX5 design team haven’t messed with it, in the
third-generation car.
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New MX5 rear view
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Old MX5 rear view
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David
is an unabashed fan. But then, when have we have known The
Bullard to be bashful? He’s a committed second-generation
MX5 owner and he’s pumped up about the new car.
The new engine induction noise sounds good. But Mazda still
needs to improve on the rather drone-like exhaust note –
maybe visit the Harley Davidson factory for tips. Still,
David is willing to put his money where his mouth is….
Mazda MX5
- Engine:
Four-cylinder petrol, 1998 cc
- Power: 118 kW @ 6
700 rpm
- Torque: 188 Nm @
5 000 rpm
- Transmission:
Six-speed manual, rear-wheel-drive
- 0-100 km/h: 7,9
seconds
- Top speed: 210
km/h
- Fuel consumption:
8,2 litres/100 km (claimed)
- Price: R241 990
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