New Mazda MX5: A Successful Diet Programme - Part 1

Mazda Press Release: Page 1
14 October 2005
Source Mazda UK

• Larger, stiffer and better equipped – but only 10 kg heavier
• Painstaking “gram strategy” applied to all components of the cult roadster
• Extensive use of high-strength steels, aluminium and composite materials
  

Almost all new automobiles today are in danger of being heavier than their predecessors, due to ever-stricter safety standards and higher customer demands for comfort features. Mazda wanted to reverse this trend – and was successful.

Delivering a lightweight roadster had highest priority during the development of the new Mazda MX-5. As a result, the third-generation version of the cult roadster is only 10 kg heavier than its predecessor (depending on version). This modest weight gain is achieved despite the third-generation MX-5 being the first to have side airbags, despite having larger wheels, more powerful engines, an extended standard equipment package and a strengthened body shell.

Thanks to the gram strategy diet, the latest two-seater retains the true aura of Mazda’s original nimble, responsive handling roadster, a sports car whose rear-wheel drive transmission and powerful, frugal four-cylinder engines are still sufficient to deliver truly exhilarating performance. The soft top is still manual like before – so Mazda could avoid the heavier solution here of an electro-hydraulic retractable top.

By weight, 58 per cent of all body components of the new Mazda MX-5 are made of ultra high-strength steel or high-strength steel, which save 10 kg. Using aluminium for the bonnet, boot lid, the powerplant frame, front suspension control arms, rear hub carriers, rear brake callipers and rear suspension spring seats reduces weight even further. The front suspension control arms and the hollow front stabiliser alone cut 6.2 kg of unnecessary weight at the front axle.

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