The Mazda MX-5 Miata has provided arguably the purest driving expertise of any automobile on sale because it first hit showrooms in 1990, nevertheless it has additionally confronted criticism for its comparatively modest energy output. Mazda simply unveiled probably the most highly effective manufacturing unit Miata ever on the Tokyo Auto Salon, a limited-edition racing-inspired trim known as the MX-5 12R. Regardless of being probably the most highly effective factory-produced model of the little roadster ever, it nonetheless solely cranks out 197 horsepower. It’s meant to steadiness every day driveability and observe day functionality, and Mazda plans to supply simply 200 items for the Japanese market solely.
Miatas are identified for his or her gentle weight and playful driving dynamics, and are sometimes the instance used to show that vehicles don’t want a ton of energy to be enjoyable to drive.
The 12R was developed in tandem with Mazda’s racing division Mazda Spirit Racing, and incorporates a comparable 2.0-liter I-4 to the one utilized in the usual MX-5, however with new cams, cylinder heads, pistons, and a brand new exhaust manifold.
With these updates it produces 197 horsepower, and Mazda hasn’t launched official torque figures for it but however it’ll solely be provided as a smooth high with a six-speed handbook transmission, upgraded Brembo brakes and height-adjustable dampers. On the skin, going for the 12R will get 200 fortunate Japanese patrons an Aero Grey paint scheme with some refined graphics, a tame physique equipment that provides a entrance splitter, aspect skirts, and a rear spoiler, and solid RAYS wheels.
Essentially the most highly effective manufacturing unit Miata is a little bit of an oxymoron, and seeing as the way it positive aspects a mere 16 horsepower over the usual automobile it’s nonetheless not a terrific selection for any aspiring drag racers on the market, however it’s a very gentle automobile by trendy requirements weighing in at about 2,500 kilos.
Past the aforementioned particulars, Mazda hasn’t launched many specs for its strongest manufacturing unit Miata. No inside images can be found, however Mazda says it’ll characteristic Alcantara-upholstered bucket seats.
As somebody who has by no means pushed a Miata as a result of I’m too tall to securely match behind the wheel, I hope these bucket seats give the MX-5’s tight inside just a few further inches of leg room. Not that I’m more likely to ever drive an MX-5 12R, however a really tall man can dream. If anybody has a Miata with mods that give it further leg room in Southern California that they’d be keen to let me drive I’d be ceaselessly grateful!