We already know that Mazda and Alfa Romeo are in bed together on the MX-5 Miata/Alfa Romeo Spider project, but the specifics were still a relative unknown. A little bird, in the form of a senior design source, flew down and chirped a little info to our friends at What Car. We cannot vouch for the validity of this info, but we’re going to pass it on to you.
First up, the engine... According to this unnamed source, Mazda has chosen an engine already and it is a 1.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. It pumps out a healthy 200 horsepower, which is 22 horsepower more than the 2004 and 2005 Mazdaspeed MX-5 produced and 33 horsepower more than the current model. We’re also certain that we’ll see torque cresting the 200 pound-feet mark, though there was no mention of that.
The source also reports that the MX-5 will hit showrooms in 2015 with a lighter body and chassis, and a sportier look than the current model. The estimated weight the source gave was 1,000 kg (2,204 lbs), which is 276 lbs less than the 2012 model. In a car as small as the Miata, that is significant weight loss, to say the least.
There is also talk that Mazda will offer its roadster up with many more options that will help give the car more of a personality. This will help form a stronger bond between the person and the car. Typically, Miata owners already have this bond with their car, but a little extra something can’t hurt.
Lastly, there will be a top-end model, similar to the Mazdaspeed version in 2004 and 2005, that will be even lighter yet and more tuned for racing, as it will be stripped of unnecessary add-on features to save every ounce.
There was one bit of info on the project altogether and it is that Mazda will only provide the platform (chassis, uni-body, and drivetrain); Alfa Romeo will add on its own body and interior. So scratch the evil idea that we’ll have two almost identical cars.
We’ll keep an eye out for more whispers as this project continues.
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