Mazdaspeed Miata

[mountjonas]

from the Tokyo Auto Show

Autoweek (http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2003_tokyo/mazda/roadster/pages/1.htm)

[TitaniumSpeed]

This vehicle looks awesome! Wonder why they are getting more hp (look at the torque!!!) out of the 1.8l than the 2.0 MSP ....lol. Oh well, I still love my MAZDASPEED! Love the RacingHarts!

[Big-J]

it about damn time!!:)

[azian6er]

IMHO i still like the msp body style better. But i cant argue with 180 HP in a 2500 lb rwd car!:eek:

[Logan]

Looks like a lift was placed in the back.

[Pitlab77]

http://auto.ascii24.com/issue/2003/1015/article54532_1.images/57112.jpg

[rx7gslse]

wanna know a secret?

Supposedly 20-25 of the US versions are going to be arriving at a location here locally for "dealer orientatin" over the next few weeks or a month...

I'll do my best to sneak out & get some pictures, and hopefully a test run or two. ;)

[Turbo Matty P]

DAMN!, and you thought it was hard to change the oil filter on the regular miata...look at that beast!!!

[ZoomZoomH]

Originally posted by TitaniumSpeed
This vehicle looks awesome! Wonder why they are getting more hp (look at the torque!!!) out of the 1.8l than the 2.0 MSP ....lol. Oh well, I still love my MAZDASPEED! Love the RacingHarts!

the BP engine in the Miata is MUCH MORE suited for turbo application (aka higher boost)

[rx7gslse]

Originally posted by ZoomZoomH
the BP engine in the Miata is MUCH MORE suited for turbo application (aka higher boost)

isn't it the same basic arcitecture as teh old 1.6 miata's (which started as a turbo designed block for teh 323 etc etc..)

[ZoomZoomH]

sure is!

[kcbhiw]

Originally posted by rx7gslse
isn't it the same basic arcitecture as teh old 1.6 miata's (which started as a turbo designed block for teh 323 etc etc..)

If it weren't for the extra inch in lenght and the components that that inch accomodates, the engines are, for the most part, identical (1.6 and 1.8). However, from the BP's conception, the head design has since changed over time. I beleive the intake ports on the current BP head are straighter, and higher, than those on the older BP. There's a lot of info on Randy Stocker's page.

http://members.aol.com/solomiata2/BPHeadCompare.jpg
(Top: MK1 / Bottom: MK2)

As found here. (http://members.aol.com/solomiata/MX5Engine.html)

[rx7gslse]

Originally posted by kcbhiw
If it weren't for the extra inch in lenght and the components that that inch accomodates, the engines are, for the most part, identical (1.6 and 1.8). However, from the BP's conception, the head design has since changed over time. I beleive the intake ports on the current BP head are straighter, and higher, than those on the older BP. There's a lot of info on Randy Stocker's page.

http://members.aol.com/solomiata2/BPHeadCompare.jpg
(Top: MK1 / Bottom: MK2)

As found here. (http://members.aol.com/solomiata/MX5Engine.html)

do the links work for anyone else?

or has my office started to block out aol homepages now too?

[ZoomZoomH]

link works for me

you got blocked

[rx7gslse]

Originally posted by ZoomZoomH
link works for me

you got blocked

drat. I'll check it when I get home...

[Pitlab77]

Originally posted by ZoomZoomH
sure is!

not really

the 1.6 is pretty much a deturboed 323 gtx block with higher compression. The 1.8 in the 94-95 were pretty much like longer 1.6 blocks.

the 99+ are different (higher compression, Vics on some, Varible intake, although the rods are suppose to be the same, they dont seem to hold up as well as the older ones.)

[Roywhitep5]

not exactly what i was expecting, but i'd definately buy one if i had the money.(humpleg)

[vodapas77]

Definitely a sharp car, but I agree with some of the other posts it doesn't diferentiate itself from the rest of the Miata line up as the MSP does from the Protege. Sure wish I had the change though. Would be pretty sweet to have my wife driving one of those. 2 Speeds in the drive way. Wait, never mind, because it would be a constant fight over who gets the car port. lol.

Anyhow, question in regards to earlier posts. Is there any relationship between the 1.8 in the Miata and the 1.8 that was in the older Protege? Same blaick different internals, completely different just happed to share the same displacement? I need knowledge, hook a brother up.

[ZoomZoomH]

which 1.8 in the Protege are you talking about, the FP-DE in the 99-00 Protege, or the 1.8 in 98 an earlier Proteges?

[kcbhiw]

Originally posted by vodapas77
Anyhow, question in regards to earlier posts. Is there any relationship between the 1.8 in the Miata and the 1.8 that was in the older Protege? Same blaick different internals, completely different just happed to share the same displacement? I need knowledge, hook a brother up.

Yes, for all intensive purposes, they are the same engine. The Miata has a bit more aggressive cams and higher compression. As stated above, the mk2s have a different head design, however, it was derived from the older BP head.

[funnylittlman]

http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2003_tokyo/mazda/roadster/images/1.jpg
I like I like! ! !

[Geo212]

I like it to. If only I could get that engine in my '91. Also from what i can see those Racing Harts and two-tone red/black seats.

[kcbhiw]

Originally posted by Geo212
I like it to. If only I could get that engine in my '91. Also from what i can see those Racing Harts and two-tone red/black seats.

The engine would drop right in. I doubt it's that dissimilar to any other 1.8L conversion that folks have completed. However, you must remember the wiring and other associated connections.

[STLBLKMSP]

I wonder if the mazdaspeed miata will have the dreaded hesitation problem like the mazdaspeed protege has.

[ForceFed]

Originally posted by STLBLKMSP
I wonder if the mazdaspeed miata will have the dreaded hesitation problem like the mazdaspeed protege has.

THAT IS TOO DAMN FUNNY!
But it does kinda make ya wonder?
Matt;)

[rx7gslse]

won't know that until they get here...

has anyone heard yet wether it's a 5spd or a 6 spd? I kow the ratios are revised, I just don't know how many of them are are? :D

[Liquid_Ag]

the bp engine is teh win...and it is much much much better suited to turbo chargin :) and there have been turbo bp's for 13+years with no hesitation...must be a better engine ;)

[Newf]

I won't be buying one.

[Darin]

I hope the MSMX5 isn't priced much more than a regular miata - for 180hp, the price had better be less than about $6K more than a normal miata. I've seen plenty of 200-220 WHEEL HP 2002+ Miatas with a clutch + FMII system.

[Newf]

yeah, 180 is a weak miata. They got away with making a weak 170 hp with the protege, but it was a guess at how much the engine could take. But, with the miata, there are tons of them out there with far more hp then 180, and plenty reliable.

I don't care how much it is, 178 is too conservative, and match the conservative looks....and it's boring. Imho, their already asking too much for a stock miata as it is. Anything more is laughable.

[Captain KRM P5]

Darin you beat me to it, FM has made far more strides in turbocharging these cars than Mazda has set sights for. Ken Hill's personal Miata makes over 250 wheel hp on his 91 with the addition of just stronger rods to the motor.

[Darin]

and for the record, re: price...

back a few years ago, while shopping for a miata, the local mazda dealers were pricing new miatas around $28K.

:(

[Captain KRM P5]

decent 94 or 95 miata = $4000
FM 2 kit and 12 psi = $5000
beating the pants off of a new mazdaspeed miata in a nine year old car = priceless

[Liquid_Ag]

1st gen protege-$1500
GTR swap and 26 psi-$4000
beating the pants off of a viper-priceless ;)

[hi-perf]

Originally posted by ZoomZoomH
which 1.8 in the Protege are you talking about, the FP-DE in the 99-00 Protege, or the 1.8 in 98 an earlier Proteges?

im pretty sure he means the earlier proteges. the FP-DE is a de-stroked FS-DE.

[Captain KRM P5]

Originally posted by iwokeupfrmadrea
1st gen protege-$1500
GTR swap and 26 psi-$4000
beating the pants off of a viper-priceless ;)

touche' :)

[Liquid_Ag]

hehe, thanx

[Itzkcatz]

1st gen protege =$500
GTR swap= $6500-7000 to beat a viper
Beating the pants off a viper =priceless

[Liquid_Ag]

jon...what kinda protege and gtr engine u buyin, adam didnt spend that much and runs 12's

[Itzkcatz]

Adam got lucky and got a GTR motor in his GTX front clip, to do everything right it will cost u about 6500-7000 just like this escort with a GTR turbo on it

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2438302963

Another adam owns that and he prob spent more than 6500

[Liquid_Ag]

ruin the fun, but still cheaper and still owns a viper ;)

[Itzkcatz]

Oh u will be beating alot more than Vipers with it lol

[Liquid_Ag]

lol true true...like my dream. owning a z06 at a stoplight

[Darin]

uh? Am I missing something? even a 400hp Protege is still a 'econobox, Protege'...whereas a Viper is STILL a viper. ;)

If fast is all you want, buy a fuggin rocket-car. :D

[Itzkcatz]

Originally posted by Darin
uh? Am I missing something? even a 400hp Protege is still a 'econobox, Protege'...whereas a Viper is STILL a viper. ;)

If fast is all you want, buy a fuggin rocket-car. :D



Very true, But we can't afford vipers or rocket cars :(

[Liquid_Ag]

and its much funnier to blow the sox off of a viper in a 13 yr old car, then out handle him ;)

[YuYuRena]

well this car isn't the mazdaspeed in other country, i.e. australia. see this article from CANBERRA TIMES -- 10/31/03

M AZDA has announced that a tricked-up SE version of its iconic MX-5 roadster will go on sale in Australia early next year. With 700,000 MX-5s sold world-wide, the sweet little soft-top is the world's best- selling sports car and the new version represents the biggest changes the roadster has seen in five years. The MX-5 SE features significant mechanical improvements including 17-inch alloy wheels and 205/40R17 tyres, a limited- slip differential and a turbo- charged engine tuned for torque to enhance further the car's dynamics. Although final pricing has not yet been finalised, a figure of about $46,000 is expected. The managing director of Mazda Australia, Malcolm Gough, says the addition of the MX-5 SE from early next year adds a new and very exciting dimension to the world's favourite sports car. The SE's enhanced dynamic package, underpinned by a user- friendly torquey engine, will further demonstrate why the MX-5 has earned its icon sports car status. It will offer an unrivalled driving experience and great value. The six-speed manual MX-5 SE, which made its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show wearing Roadster Turbo badges, also boasts a body kit, a large exhaust pipe and coloured brake calipers. The body kit includes a new front spoiler incorporating an extra-large air intake and recessed fog lamps, a boot spoiler and rear under spoiler. The MX-5 SE, which will be sold only in Japan, the US and Australia, should arrive at dealers' showrooms in the first quarter of next year. Powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 1.8-litre DOHC engine, it delivers a broad, strong torque band and more engine power, while a retuned main exhaust muffler reduces unwanted noise while producing a more sporty exhaust note. In Japan the turbocharged engine is expected to develop more than 124kW and 200Nm with close to peak torque available from 2500rpm to 5500rpm. Australian power and torque figures will be confirmed closer to launch time; however, with a likely torque boost of more than 20 per cent over the standard car, the 0-100km/h time is expected to fall from 8.4 seconds to about 7.8 seconds. The torque boost and a modified final gear ratio has also significantly improved in-gear acceleration. Standard MX-5 models, which benefit from an upgrade this month that brings new-look 16-inch alloy wheels and a number of interior upgrades, produce 107kW (ECE) at 7000rpm and 168Nm at 5000rpm. These revised six- speed manual and four- speed automatic MX-5s will be priced from $40,530. Other driveline changes introduced with the MX-5 SE include a more efficient radiator, an upgraded clutch, propeller shaft and differential, and harder rubber for the engine and differential mounts. The MX-5's acclaimed four-wheel double wishbone suspension has been retuned for the SE with modified Bilstein shock absorbers and coil springs now 20 per cent stiffer, ensuring great handling and a controlled ride. The MX-5 SE rides 10mm lower than the standard car and has new anti-roll bars fitted, with the front bar increasing by 1mm and the rear by 2mm. Inside, the SE's cabin benefits from the upgrades introduced this month to the rest of the MX-5 range. The centre dash now features an alloy finish, while the alloy look has been added to the air vents, door handles and gearbox surround. All MX-5s feature a larger wind deflector for more comfortable open-top cruising with the deflector also housing two rear speakers boosting the total number of speakers to six. The SE also features drilled aluminium pedals. The seat fabric is new and boasts a striking red seat insert. Red stitching has been added to the shift knob and parking brake lever.


And monetary unit is in AUS$. ENjoy the news.

[ZoomZoomH]

MX-5 SE, Roadster Turbo, Mazdaspeed Miata, different name, same car!!!!

[Keith@FP]

No. The Australian SE is a different car, modified by a tuning shop in Oz. In that way it's similar to the Mazdaspeed Protege.

The recently unveiled Roadster Turbo, aka Mazdaspeed Miata, is a factory effort.

For those of you who think you can outrun or outhandle a Viper with a Protege, you've never actually competed with one. They're very fast cars.

Keith

[BlueMP5Dave]

Saw the Mazdaspeed Miata yesterday at SEMA nice car. The VP's car was nicer. I like the Miata coupe also.

/members/BlueMP5Dave/SEMA/ms miata eng.jpg

/members/BlueMP5Dave/SEMA/miata coupe.jpg
MS Miata in background tried to get a shot of the intercooler but it did not come out. It was pretty small but looked to be very efficent.

DG's car

/members/BlueMP5Dave/SEMA/kickass miata hood.jpg
CF hood was amazing

/members/BlueMP5Dave/SEMA/kickass miata.jpg
Sorry lights are so bright

[Keith@FP]

The "VP's car" belongs to DG Motorsports and last I heard it was for sale :) It's the "Blazing Miata", and debuted at SEMA last year. It's got the most beautifully done paint job. http://www.flyinmiata.com/news/DGM.asp

The only change to the spec that I know of is the wheels. I can tell you the Blazing Miata would rip the MS Miata a new one - it's got about 240 whp :)

Keith

[BlueMP5Dave]

I still like the coupe the best. That car might be in my future:D

[Keith@FP]

Better move to Japan then...

Keith

[BlueMP5Dave]

that sucks :(

[ZoomZoomH]

Keith, any insider updates on the next gen (NC?) Miata?

with the incentive Mazda has right now, and the low loan rate I can get from work, I am very tempted to get a '03 NB, just wondering if the next gen will be worth the wait, or should I just get a new '03 and enjoy

[Keith@FP]

No real insider scoop here. I don't think it's going to show before 2006 or so. The Ibuki showcar gives an idea of the general direction of the car (small and light as opposed to big with high power) but don't read too much into the styling or the drivetrain on the concept. I've heard from a good source that there may even be a cheap version with a smaller engine, good news for volume sales.

I can reassure you from talks with folks at Mazda that Mazda knows what makes the Miata popular and does not want to screw it up. They have a much clearer idea of why the Miata has been a success than most owners do :)

Go ahead and get that '03. Enjoy it, and decide when the NC breaks ground if it's the sort of thing you want. At the moment, there just isn't enough information to be able to draw a good conclusion. Doesn't stop the folks on the Miata forum though...

Keith

[rx7gslse]

so did anyone take a peek at the MS Miata's headlights?

they look more like a "projector beam" setup than the current ones?

[RAAZ227]

Lookin good!

[Keith@FP]

The 2001+ cars do have projector beams. One of the press releases from Japan mentioned on Miata.net does mention a black surround instead of the silver. It's unknown if this will be present in the US cars.

Keith

[rx7gslse]

looks liek we're getting the "smoked headlamp housings" as well..

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/031105-4.htm

“With Mazdaspeed MX-5 Miata, we took a renowned sports car and further enhanced its performance with carefully selected modifications, all the while remaining true to Miata’s famed spirit,”said Robert Davis, senior vice president of marketing and product development for Mazda North American Operations.

Fitted with a turbocharger and air-to-air intercooler, the 1.8-litre, four-cylinder engine now makes 178 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 166 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm, 25 and 33 percent more respectively than the normally aspirated Miata. The car also features a short-throw, six-speed gearbox and Mazdaspeed sport-tuned and lowered suspension.

To handle the extra power from the turbocharging system, the engine block is modified to accommodate the oil line for the turbo, the cooling system receives an increased radiator core volume, the six-speed manual transmission, clutch and pressure plate, driveshaft and differential all have been optimized, and a Denso tube-fin air-to-air intercooler added.

The already-able Miata chassis gets dropped 7mm in ride height through the use of shorter springs with increased spring rates, Mazdaspeed-tuned Bilstein dampers, larger front and rear stabilizer bars and a front strut tower brace. Mazda engineers tuned the suspension to get the most out of the turbocharged powerplant, handling the brute power sent through the Bosch torque-sensing limited slip differential to the 17-inch Racing Hart aluminum alloy wheels shod with Toyo Proxes R28 205/40R17 80W high-performance tires. All four corners receive silver-painted brake calipers and ABS.

The exterior, colored in either Velocity Red Mica or Titanium Gray Metallic and subtly tattooed with Mazdaspeed and MX-5 badging, sports smoked headlamps and a unique front under-spoiler with recessed fog lamps. From the back are a rear under-spoiler, rear deck spoiler and large exhaust tip with Mazdaspeed logo.

When raised, a black vinyl soft top covers black cloth seats with red centers, red door inserts, and a black leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob and handbrake with red stitching. Silver instrument panel gauges showcase the Mazdaspeed logo as do the foot pedals, scuff plates, floor mats and body-colored rear view mirror cap. Standard audio is a 225-watt six-speaker Bose sound system with six-disc CD changer and speed-sensing automatic volume control. A black cloth soft top with black leather bucket seats and red stitching are optional with the Grand Touring Package—the only factory option available.

The Mazdaspeed MX-5 Miata is set to go on sale in select North American markets in spring 2004.

[rx7gslse]

ZING!

Done... Deposit placed to get my Mazdaspeed Miata :)

Should be just about the 1st one in the area to get one! :D :D :D

[Itzkcatz]

Nice house dude, Horrible sod job lol your lawn looks destroyed. better off just racking it and spreading seed shaking some hay over it, Congrats on your soon to be new car ..Jon

[rx7gslse]

Originally posted by Itzkcatz
Nice house dude, Horrible sod job lol your lawn looks destroyed. better off just racking it and spreading seed shaking some hay over it, Congrats on your soon to be new car ..Jon

Ha! thanks.. The grass is now green thanks.. Stupid August in TX everything is brown...

visions of turbos dancing in my head...