Mazda MX5 Cars - Generations and Overview Part 2

Mazda MX5 Cars - Generations and Overview

Picture Of Mazda Mx5 Cars

The body is a conventional, but light, unibody or monocoque construction, with (detachable) front and rear subframes. The MX5 also incorporates a truss marketed as the Powerplant Frame (PPF) which connects the engine to the differential, minimizing flex and contributing to responsive handling. Some MX5s feature limited slip differentials and anti-lock braking system. Traction control is an option available on NC models. The earlier cars weighed in at just over a ton, with engine power output usually 116 bhp (87 kW). The later cars were heavier, with higher power engines.

Picture Of Mazda Mx5 Cars

With an approximate 50:50 front/rear weight balance, the car has nearly neutral handling. Inducing oversteer is easy and very controllable, thus making the MX5 a popular choice for amateur and stock racing, including, in the USA, the Sports Car Club of America's Solo2 autocross and Spec Miata race series and in the UK the Mazda racing championship.

Picture Of Mazda Mx5 Cars

Beginning with the third generation, Mazda consolidated worldwide marketing using the MX5 name, though enthusiasts in the USA still refer to it as Miata, a name that means "reward" in Old High German.