Mazda has unveiled a pair of concepts at the SEMA show currently underway in Las Vegas that are meant to demonstrate two different takes on lightweight, open-top performance. The concepts are based on the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata and one of them harkens back to vintage roadsters of the past while the other is a modern, sporty speedster.
ALSO SEE: Dodge Dart GLH Concept Revealed, Production Version Rumored
The former is the MX-5 Spyder concept, which features a new automated roof from American Sunroof Corporation that comes lined in fabric supplied by Haartz. Other highlights include its specially formulated Mercury Silver paint finish, carbon fiber aero kit, body-colored toneau cover, custom grille and lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels from Yokohama.
The more modern designed concept is the MX-5 Speedster, which as its name suggests is a roofless design where even the windshield has been replaced with a small wind deflector. Its paint finish is called Blue Ether and in the interior there is a mix of Alcantara and carbon fiber trim. The wheels are 16-inch units from Rays and there is also an adjustable suspension system on the car.
CHECK OUT: All-Wheel-Drive Dodge Challenger Leads Mopar SEMA Onslaught
In all, the adoption of lightweight materials has helped contribute to a weight loss of more than 250 pounds compared to the standard MX-5 Miata, with the MX-5 Speedster concept tipping the scales at only 2,080 lbs.
“The all-new 2016 MX-5 served as a blank canvas for our design team to create some truly one-of-a-kind cars, yet our SEMA concepts remain true to more than 25 years of MX-5 heritage,” said Mazda designer Ken Saward, who oversaw the design of these two concepts. “Both MX-5 Spyder and MX-5 Speedster are uncompromising designs that highlight the core strengths of MX-5.
For more SEMA coverage, head to our dedicated hub.
_______________________________________
