Limited Edition Mazda MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary Model Revealed
Mazda is producing a limited-edition MX-5 Miata to celebrate this legendary sports car’s 30th birthday.
Three decades ago, the very first Miata debuted at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, which is where this latest special-edition variant is making news.
Shortly after its Windy City introduction, this machine became something of a legend, revered by driving enthusiasts for its light weight, scintillating dynamics, and eminently lovable personality. A Japanese take on the classic European sports car, Miata delivered all the goods along with Japanese reliability and craftsmanship, factors that have helped Mazda dealerships deliver more than 1 million copies around the world.
The new 30th Anniversary MX-5 Miata stands out from regular models in a variety of ways. For starters, it’s offered in an exclusive new color called Racing Orange. It rolls on forged 17-inch aluminum wheels manufactured by Rays. Special fender badges emblazoned with a serial number never let you forget that you’re driving something special.
SEE ALSO: Complete 2019 Chicago Auto Show Coverage
The brake calipers – also rendered in orange – safely and reliably stop this car. Curiously, engineers went with Brembos up and Nissin units at the rear. Figure that one out. Manual transmission-equipped models feature sporty Bilstein dampers, though every version is fitted with special Recaro seats. Yes, an automatic gearbox is offered for those averse to three-pedal driving.
Sprucing things up inside is a standard and likely very high-end Bose sound system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also supported for enhanced connectivity.
Unfortunately, there’s nothing new to report under the hood. North American customers will have to live with a familiar 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, one delivering 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque.
Giving this 30th Anniversary Miata an air of exclusivity, only 3,000 examples will be made, with a scant 500 coming to America. Prospective buyers will be able to choose between hard- and soft-top bodies.
Base price for this eminently desirable Mazda smile-machine is $35,915, including $920 in delivery fees for most regions of the U.S. If you want a slushbox plan on spending around $500 more.
Would-be owners can request a 2019 Mazda MX-5 30th Anniversary model from a special website: www.mazdausa.com/30th-anniversary. The order books open on February 7 at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time so act fast if you can’t live without one.
Discuss this story on our Mazda MX-5 Miata Forum