New MX5 Debuts

Mazda Introduces A Limited Edition Roadster in
Commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of its Debut 10yearM.gif (16685 bytes)

- To be sold in Japan, North America, Europe and Australia, designed with basically the same specifications for all markets -

December 15, 1998 - Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the introduction of the Roadster "10th Anniversary Model," a limited edition which commemorates the 10th anniversary of its debut, designed with basically the same specifications for all markets. In Japan, it will go on sale beginning January 4, 1999, through the Mazda Anfini sales channel nationwide and some Mazda channels. The limited sales volume is 500 for the Japanese market.

For overseas markets, 7,000 units of the "10th Anniversary Model" will be distributed to the U. S., Canada, Europe and Australia, beginning next spring. The total sales volume is 7,500 units worldwide.

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The Roadster debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February 1989, and its domestic sales started in September. Since then, the Roadster has received generous support from a wide range of customers around the world who love open sports cars. The current generation model, which succeeded the original in January 1999, has been also favorably received in all markets, and the cumulative production figure has reached to more than 480,000 units as of November 1998.

The "10th Anniversary Model", which is based on the 1.8-liter model, features an exclusive interior/exterior and equipment as follows:

A close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, which had been available only in Japan, will be available for the other markets.

With new "Innocent Blue Mica" and polished-finish alloy wheels, the unique exterior will be recognized as a limited edition at a glance.

The interior color is a two-tone black and blue design, coordinated with the exterior. Chrome-plated trim rings around the Speedo- and tachometer, and the carbon-fiber-look trim on the center console panel, further enhance the Spartans of the cockpit.

As a symbol of the 10th anniversary, the Roadster receives a special ignition key and an emblem on the front fender which conveys the serial number.

Major product features

Base

1.8-liter RS with 6-speed manual transmission, equipped with package option (including power door lock, BOOS sound system and FM/AM electronic tuner with CD deck)

Highlight of special equipment

[Exterior]

Exterior is colored with newly-designed, vivid "Innocent Blue Mica."

Color of the soft top and its cover are blue with similar shade of the body color.

Aluminum alloy wheels has stylish, polished finish.

[Interior]

The trim color is two-tone black and blue, coordinated with its exterior.

Blue-colored suede-like material is used in the center part of the seats, while the side and headrests are covered with black leather.

NARDI leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob are colored in black/blue.

Blue is also applied on the shift lever boot and floor carpet.

Sporty, chrome-plated rings surround the speedometer and tachometer.

The center console panel includes carbon-fiber-look trim.

The "10th Anniversary Model" features a new 6-speed manual transmission, which enables more spirited driving with a close ratio design and short-throw layout, maximizing its acceleration and smoothness in the high engine revolution range.