The just over 2300 pounds fourth generation Mazda Miata soft top with just 155 ponies under the bonnet had managed to trace its route back to the original 1990 first generation model. It was almost a miracle that the car with all the advanced features had managed to lose over 100 pounds from the 3rd generation model. Since, the power was restricted to a mere 155 bhp, experts believed that reduction of even a single pound meant a lot of difference to the final performance figures.
But, Mazda decided to replace the soft top with a 110 pounds hard roof top in the Miata RF. Will it be counterproductive? There are supporters on both sides of the argument. Mazda says that it was challenge to retract the top, rear window and C-pillars into the rear deck without compromising the volume of the cabin or the trunk. They have succeeded in it. Moreover, when driving with the top over the cabin, cabin noise is markedly lower. The flying buttresses, when the roof is folded, look extremely stylish. They are not just pretty but also functional. They assist in lifting the rear deck fins and after the top vanishes inside, they recline to the original position.
The production cars will probably come in both the 6speed manual and automatic options. The car is still very sporty. However, to accommodate the hard top and additional weight, Mazda engineers have tinkered with the suspension, weight distribution and also the steering to keep the car planted on the ground without being less sporty. The suspension is however, a tad stiffer than the soft top peer and there is a slight possibility that the cabin will not have the open, airy feel of the soft top.
For more information, knock on our doors at Cardinale Mazda.
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Cardinale Mazda
500 Auto Center Circle
Salinas, California 93907
Phone: 877.989.9252
Website: www.cardinalemazda.com