Did you know that the Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata in some regions, holds the Guinness World Record for the best-selling two-seater sports car? Between the first production and the last production of the first generation Mazda MX-5 mk1 (April 1989–1997) 431,506 units were produced before going on to the second generation. With it being small, lightweight, good looking and affordable, as of 2022, over 1 million units have been sold since its introduction in 1989, making it one of the most popular and beloved sports cars in the world.
The manufactures were sure to keep the Mazda MX-5 weight low to contribute to the nimble sport handling in all four generations of the redesign since it got launched. Each design has brought improvements in its handling, design and technology, not forgetting the pop up headlights! Although the pop up headlights were a popular design feature in the 1960’s, 1970’s and 1980’s, or even as early as the 1936 Cord 810, the pop up headlights became a signature synonymous with the Mazda MX-5, giving and keeping it’s quirky classic/sport car feel.
The MX-5 has, unsurprisingly, been named ‘Roadster of the Year’ on many occasions through well known automotive publications such as ‘Road and Track’ and ‘Car and Driver’ as well as featuring in lesser known automotive publications such as ‘What Car?’, appreciating its design and performance capabilities, and ‘North American Car of the Year’, where the MX-5 became a finalist for the North America Car of the Year competition.
The Mazda MX-5 is also known for being a trustworthy, well built car. You can still find many MX-5’s with high mileage running like it should and looking neat as a pin. A great sports companion with great style to take on the road. What more could you ask for?