Frankfurt 2009: Mazda MX-5 Superlight makes us wonder how we'd spend our other two wishes
Mazda MX-5 Superlight concept – Click above for high-res image gallery
If you're one of the many enthusiasts out there oohing and ahhing over the pair of pre-production Mini concepts that debuted in Frankfurt today, know that the BMW division isn't the only one here with a tempting speedster on display. Amidst all the exciting and pivotal new vehicle debuts at the show, Mazda took the wraps off the MX-5 Superlight Version.
Unfortunately it's just a show car, and it's not the first time Mazda's toyed with the idea (and us in the process), but the Superlight goes to show what an inventive mind and a skilled hand or two can do with the iconic Mazda roadster. Characterized by its windshield-less shape, the Superlight also features an exquisitely crafted cockpit of brushed aluminum and saddle brown leather, aluminum and carbon-fiber rolls hoops with integrated brake LEDs, an aluminum rearview mirror mounted on the hood, a wider track, dropped suspension and upgraded brakes.
While the engine essentially carries over from the stock 1.8-liter, 126hp four, the Mazdaspeed intake and exhaust, coupled with the reduced 2,194-pound curb weight, bring the 0-60 run down to 8.9 seconds. Which may not sound like breakneck acceleration, but with the wind rushing at your face, we're guessing this junior Veritas is a real thrill ride. Check it out in the gallery below.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Ian 8:14PM (9/15/2009)
It looks like the original Ford Mustang prototype!
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Tohe 8:22PM (9/15/2009)
And the green angle of this story is that by being light this car gets out of this world mpg figures? I'm a bit confused about this car, but I certainly think it could do without a rear view mirror, it should use a monitor along with a rear video camera instead, this is the 21st century, even iPod Nanos have video cameras these days.
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hircus 2:45PM (9/16/2009)
You're kidding, right? This is the MX-5, the most minimalist roadster ever. For a long time it did not even have ABS!