Next-generation Mazda Miata could be lightest version ever , 1,800 LBS
06-08-11, 08:31 PM
#1
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Next-generation Mazda Miata could be lightest version ever , 1,800 LBS
Very ambitious target!
Targeted curb weight of 1,760 lbs (798 kg)
The Mazda Miata has always been a lightweight car, but a new report is indicating the next-generation model could weigh less than 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
Citing a "senior insider," Inside Line says that engineers have been tasked with cutting at least 720 lbs (327 kg) from the current curb weight of 2,480 lbs (1,125) kg. This means the car would tip the scales at just 1,760 lbs (798 kg).
In order to achieve this, the Miata will reportedly feature a high-strength steel body, a smaller engine and a minimalist interior. Speaking of the latter, the model could lose the glovebox and owner's manual - which would be replaced by a digital version on a USB flash drive - to save weight.
While this all sounds rather exciting, the source doesn't believe Mazda will actually meet their target weight. Regardless, the next-generation Miata should be significantly lighter than the current model.
Source: Inside Line
Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/11106083...#ixzz1OkJtiX5S
The Mazda Miata has always been a lightweight car, but a new report is indicating the next-generation model could weigh less than 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
Citing a "senior insider," Inside Line says that engineers have been tasked with cutting at least 720 lbs (327 kg) from the current curb weight of 2,480 lbs (1,125) kg. This means the car would tip the scales at just 1,760 lbs (798 kg).
In order to achieve this, the Miata will reportedly feature a high-strength steel body, a smaller engine and a minimalist interior. Speaking of the latter, the model could lose the glovebox and owner's manual - which would be replaced by a digital version on a USB flash drive - to save weight.
While this all sounds rather exciting, the source doesn't believe Mazda will actually meet their target weight. Regardless, the next-generation Miata should be significantly lighter than the current model.
Source: Inside Line
Read more: http://www.worldcarfans.com/11106083...#ixzz1OkJtiX5S
06-08-11, 09:24 PM
#3
Lexus Test Driver
Nice!!!! They could even drop in a nice rotary engine in this puppy. So it be a small and powerful engine 
1.3L with over 200 hp. If you add two turbos, it turn out over 250 hp. The weight, the engine and it being FWD. It probably could do 0-60 mph in 5 seconds or less.
Come on Mazda do it!
Plus with that kind of engine and weight... It could be in Lotus Elise territory and if you add a turbo it be in Lotus Exige territory.
1.3L with over 200 hp. If you add two turbos, it turn out over 250 hp. The weight, the engine and it being FWD. It probably could do 0-60 mph in 5 seconds or less.Come on Mazda do it!
Plus with that kind of engine and weight... It could be in Lotus Elise territory and if you add a turbo it be in Lotus Exige territory.
Last edited by JessePS; 06-08-11 at 09:39 PM.
06-08-11, 09:48 PM
#7
Lexus Test Driver
Use of a smaller engine as stated could bring down the weight substantially. Keep in mind the last-gen Miata actually used a bigger engine than the current Elise.
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06-08-11, 11:24 PM
#10
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Like where this is going. Doubt it will happen. I say ~2200lbs if anything.
EDIT: this still makes me wonder how that one raptor car got a V8 and still weighs under 2200lbs.
EDIT: this still makes me wonder how that one raptor car got a V8 and still weighs under 2200lbs.
06-09-11, 04:02 AM
#11
Pole Position
Nice!!!! They could even drop in a nice rotary engine in this puppy. So it be a small and powerful engine 1.3L with over 200 hp. If you add two turbos, it turn out over 250 hp. The weight, the engine and it being FWD. It probably could do 0-60 mph in 5 seconds or less.
Come on Mazda do it!
Plus with that kind of engine and weight... It could be in Lotus Elise territory and if you add a turbo it be in Lotus Exige territory.
1.3L with over 200 hp. If you add two turbos, it turn out over 250 hp. The weight, the engine and it being FWD. It probably could do 0-60 mph in 5 seconds or less.Come on Mazda do it!
Plus with that kind of engine and weight... It could be in Lotus Elise territory and if you add a turbo it be in Lotus Exige territory.
06-09-11, 04:47 AM
#13
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True, but please keep in mind that the Elise uses a 2ZZ motor, which weighs a scant 115kg. It doesn't get much better than that, especially if as the article claims it will have turbo hardware. Displacement isn't always indicative of engine weight.
Last edited by MR_F1; 06-09-11 at 05:03 AM. Reason: updated accurate weight number
06-09-11, 05:28 AM
#14
Lexus Champion
06-09-11, 06:03 AM
#15
Lexus Test Driver
Small and light... I'd be flying everywhere 