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Mazda Hoping to Trim 720 Pounds from Next-Gen MX-5 Miata
Posted: Thu Jun 09, 2011 11:15 am
by Sabre
The Torque Report
Mazda is hoping to put the next-generation on an extreme diet compared to the current model. According to an insider Mazda's engineers have been given the task of cutting at least 720 pounds from the 2,480 pound curb weight of the current Miata. Mazda hopes that the next-generation Miata will be more closer in character to the original 1989 model. The original Miata weighted 2,178 pounds.
According to the inside source that spoke with Inside Line, the goal will probably not be met, but engineers have made some progress. Some of the methods that the engineers are using is high-strength steel for the body and a smaller, lighter engine. Other things are going to be deleted from the next Miata, like a dashboard glovebox and an owner's manual.
The next Miata will also be smaller and narrower. The engine is also going to be downsized and could be as small as 1.4 liters. Of course a turbocharger and direct injection will boost the power of the tiny engine.
That will be quite impressive if they can do that, although it sounds like they might not be able to. We'll see. I'm all for a smaller/lighter version though
Re: Mazda Hoping to Trim 720 Pounds from Next-Gen MX-5 Miata
Posted: Thu Jun 09, 2011 11:27 am
by sirwilliam
I figure that this isn't going to happen without a substantial increase in cost from using high-end, lightweight materials to build it.
Re: Mazda Hoping to Trim 720 Pounds from Next-Gen MX-5 Miata
Posted: Thu Jun 09, 2011 12:41 pm
by PGT
I'd like to see a gap analysis done with 1989 safety requirements and projected ones for 2015 and then the weight of all the stuff that's now required. I.e. the "safety overhead" that modern cars carry.
I desperately want a replacement for my '91 CRX Si but alas that ship has sailed.
Re: Mazda Hoping to Trim 720 Pounds from Next-Gen MX-5 Miata
Posted: Thu Jun 09, 2011 12:46 pm
by complacent
PGT wrote:I'd like to see a gap analysis done with 1989 safety requirements and projected ones for 2015 and then the weight of all the stuff that's now required. I.e. the "safety overhead" that modern cars carry.
I desperately want a replacement for my '91 CRX Si but alas that ship has sailed.
every time i see a pic of the "new" crz racing car, i cry a little inside.
Re: Mazda Hoping to Trim 720 Pounds from Next-Gen MX-5 Miata
Posted: Thu Jun 09, 2011 12:49 pm
by PGT
I want the UKDM CTR. NOW!!! Saw one in Germany and ZOMG
Re: Mazda Hoping to Trim 720 Pounds from Next-Gen MX-5 Miata
Posted: Sun Jun 12, 2011 3:20 pm
by Raven
I quite like the safety overhead my mx-5 has. It's nice knowing I can have a medium speed car crash and not be killed.