Wikicars - User contributions [en]

Audi S4

2008-08-01T00:53:39Z

74.127.213.19: /* External Links */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:800px-2006_Audi_S4_25quattro.jpg|300px|2006 Audi S4 "25quattro" special edition.]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Audi]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
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| Production
| {{{produced from when to when+total units made (optional)}}}
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| Class
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| Body Style
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| Length
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| Engine
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| Power
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The '''[[Audi]] S4''' is a high performance sport version of the popular [[Audi A4]].

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Wikicars:Model Review Template|<MODEL> Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===
Mention any minor facelifts or major changes made to the [[automobile|vehicle]] here.

===Styles and Major Options===
Certain [[automobile|vehicles]] come in different trim levels or body styles. Features and major options should be mentioned here.

===Pricing===
''Add more fields as necessary.''

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
''Add more fields as necessary.''

As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===
Warranty options and scheduled maintainence information should be mentioned here.

===Safety===
This section should reference points on safety ratings and features of the vehicle.

===Photos===

<gallery>
</gallery>

Add ''Photos'' of the [[automobile|vehicle]] here.

'''''Please make sure not to use copyrighted photos.'''''

===Colors===
List the colors that the particular <MODEL> is offered in.

===Main Competitors===
Create links to other <MAKE> <MODEL> pages in this section.

==Hybrid Models==
If there are [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] versions of this vehicle manufactured, then please elaborate a little bit on it here.

==Unique Attributes==
If there are any features of this [[automobile|vehicle]] that sets it apart from other [[automobile|vehicles]] in its class, then mention those ''unique attributes'' here.

==Resale Values==
''Add more fields as necessary.''

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''<MODEL> Year'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Year X
</td>
<td>
Year X-2
</td>
<td>
Year X-3
</td>
<td>
Year X-4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''Resale Value'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==
Please make sure to '''''keep critiques in a third-person point of view'''''. If using criticisms from a reputable automotive source, then '''''please make sure to cite the quote'''''.

==Generations==
Fill in as many as appropriate. Add more if necessary and pictures wherever applicable.

'''''Please make sure NOT to use copyrighted pictures'''''.

==Current Generation: (2005-Present) ==

The B7 platform S4 is the most recent version of the vehicle, having debuted in late 2005. Although Audi classifies it as a new car, the differences between it and the outgoing B6 S4 are primarily cosmetic.

Audi has, however, made a few notable changes, including adding new springs and dampers to the suspension and re-calibrating the quattro system to maintain a 40:60 front-to-rear torque split under normal conditions. The system is continuously adjustable though, and the torque split can change depending on driving conditions. The new "fish mouth" grill, narrow headlamps, "L" tail-lamps and quad exhaust tips help distinquish the B7 from the previous B6 model.

Interestingly enough, German tuner Abt Sportsline decided to forego the V8 and use a modified version of the 3.2 [[V6|V6]] FSI engine in a special high-performance B7 S4 it created, named Abt AS4-R. This car now has a 480 PS (353 kW/473 [[HP|hp]]) engine, and can reach a maximum speed of 300 km/h (186 mph), surpassing 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. Changes to chassis include a stiffer adjustable suspension, with new stabilizers, 19 inch wheels and Dunlop SP Sportmaxx tyres.

The picture above is of the limited edition 25th anniversary 25Quattro, of which they made only 250, they have different lower noses, side scoops near the rear tire and carbon fiber nose and tail adds, in addtion, they also have different interiors with carbon fiber and leather upgrades as well as a unique VIN#

== Third generation (2003-2005) ==
[[Image:2004_Audi_S4.jpg|right|250px|2004 Audi S4]]
The third generation, B6 platform S4 debuted in mid-2003. Despite having moved to yet another entirely new platform, the S4's most publicized new feature was its engine. It became available in three bodystyles for the 2004 model year: the S4 sedan, the S4 Avant wagon and a convertible, the '''Audi S4 Cabriolet'''.

Replacing the 2.7 L twin-[[Turbo Engine|turbocharged]] [[V6|V6]] engine of the previous generation S4 was a 4.2 L, 40-valve V8 based on the unit from the [[Audi A8|A8]] and producing 344 PS (253 kW/340 [[HP|hp]]), making it more potent than either the S6 Plus or [[Audi RS2|RS2]] and nearly as powerful as the B5 platform [[Audi RS4|RS4]].

With such abundant power on tap, the B6 S4 could accelerate quickly enough to meet or beat the times of any sports car. The B6S4 is the fastest car ever. Road tests conducted by American automotive magazines indicated that it could go from a standstill to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, and make it to 200 km/h (124 mph) in slightly over 20 seconds.

Like its predecessors, the model was standard with a six-speed manual and Quattro, the Tiptronic transmission remained an option. The B6 platform S4 was replaced by the B7 platform S4 in late-2005.

==Second generation (1997-2002)==
[[Image:800px-IMG_1748.JPG|right|250px|2001 Audi S4]]
The second generation S4 debuted in 1997 as part of the B5 platform A4 line-up. Although the S4 was no longer available with a V8, its 2.7 L, twin-[[Turbo Engine|turbocharged]] [[V6]] engine was more than adequate, producing 265 PS (195 kW/261 [[HP|hp]]) in European trim. The engine was slightly detuned to meet US emissions regulations, and power stopped at 250 PS (184 kW/247 [[HP|hp]]) in North America.

In addition to the sedan, a wagon version, the '''Audi S4 Avant''', was introduced into the lineup from 1999.

The S4 could accelerate up to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 5.6 seconds and had an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) (143mph for US models), making it both the quickest sedan in the Audi model line and among the quickest sedans in the world at that time. As in the previous S4, a six-speed manual transmission was standard equipment, as was the quattro [[Four Wheel Drive|all-wheel-drive]]. A five-speed Tiptronic transmission became available for the first time as an option. Production ceased on the B5 S4 in 2001.

The B5 S4 has a devoted enthusiast community that focuses on attaining supercar-level power and performance. Currently, the B5 S4 is considered the most potentially powerful of the S4 lineup. Being a [[Turbo Engine|turbocharged]] car, it can gain significant power by simply upgrading the engine management software. By replacing the K03 turbos with the larger [[Audi RS4|RS4]]'s K04 turbos, aftermarket and home tuners can easily increase power to the 450 [[HP|hp]] (335 kW) range.

==First generation (1991-1994)==
[[Image:800px-Audi S6 C4.jpg|right|250px|A 1994 S4]]
Audi was re-configuring its lineup during the early 1990s, and introduced the S4 in 1991 as the performance version of the re-styled [[Audi 100|100]] sedan. Despite sharing its basic structure with the 100, the S4 effectively took the place of the [[Audi 200|200]] [[Turbo Engine|Turbo]]-Quattro sedan, which had been discontinued the year before.

The S4 was sold worldwide with a [[turbocharger|turbocharged]] version of Audi's 2.2 L (2226 cc), 20-valve [[Straight-5|inline-5]] engine developing 230 [[Horsepower#PS|PS]] (227 [[HP|hp]]/169 kW) and 350 N·m (258 |ft·lbf) of torque. A 280 PS (276 [[HP|hp]]/206 kW) 4.2  [[V8]] became available to European customers as an option. Quattro [[Four Wheel Drive|all-wheel-drive]] and a manual transmission (six-speed in Europe, five-speed in North America) were standard equipment.

After Audi dropped the 100 nameplate and re-badged the car as [[Audi A6|A6]] in 1994, the S4 became the [[Audi S6|S6]], although the only real changes to the model were minor cosmetic updates and the addition of a more powerful S6 Plus model to the lineup. After the first generation A6 was replaced in 1998 by an updated version, the S4 and S6 became distinctly separate from one another.

Being the first in the S4 lineup, it is commonly referred to as the UrS4.

==Worldwide==
If the [[automobile|vehicle]] is sold in other markets worldwide, then this is the section to mention that information. Also, mention if the <MODEL> goes by another name in these other markets.

==Design quirks and oddities==
Refer to any pop-culture tidbits about the [[Automobile|vehicle]] in this section.

==Awards==
List out notable ''awards'' that the model has recieved while in production. '''Boldface''' the company or orgainization that gives out the award, and ''Italicize'' the name of the award.

==See also==
* [http://www.abt-tuning.net/AS4-R.363.0.html?&L=1 Abt Sportsline AS4-R]

{{Audi}}

==External Links==
* [http://www.audiusa.com/model_home/0,,bodyStyleId-10,00.html?bodystyle=s4sedan Official Audi USA S4 website]
* [http://www.audiworld.com/model/s4/content.shtml AudiWorld.com Model Guide (Complete Historical S4 Specs)]
* [http://www.s4biturbo.com/ Audi (B5) S4 Owners' Resource]
* [http://www.theaudis4.com/ Audi S4 Videos / Reviews]
* [http://www.audiforum.ca/ Audi S4 Owners Community Forum]

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_S4 Audi S4], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Audi_S4&action=history contributors].

[[Category:Current Models]]
[[Category:Audi Vehicles|S4]]
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]
[[Category:All wheel drive vehicles]]

Dodge Shadow

2008-08-01T00:07:48Z

74.127.213.19: /* External Links */

Mazda MX-5 Miata

2008-07-31T23:58:16Z

74.127.213.19: /* External links */

[[image:2007_MX-5_silverleft.jpg|right|thumb|400px|'''The 2007 [[Mazda]] MX-5 Miata''']]
The '''Mazda MX-5''' is a popular [[sports car]] built by [[Mazda]] in Hiroshima, Japan. It is known as the '''MX-5 Miata''' (or popularly just '''Miata''') in North America, where it was one of the few Mazdas to be given a name. It is known just as the '''MX-5''' in Oceania and Europe and the '''Eunos Roadster''' or simply '''Roadster''' in Japan. It was initially unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show on 10 February, 1989. The Miata is the world's best-selling sports car, with 720,407 cars produced and sold between February 1989 and March 31 2005. Beginning with the third-generation 2006 model, Mazda consolidated worldwide marketing using the MX-5 name, though enthusiasts in the U.S.A. steadfastly refer to it as a Miata, a name that means "reward" in Old High German.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Mazda MX-5 Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===
*The biggest change to come about for 2007 is the addition of an MX-5 model built with a power retractable hardtop. Other features remain the same as the 2006 models.

*On May 29, 2007, Mazda released a special edition of the vehicle called the '''MX-5 Icon''', in celebration of the '''Mazda Wankel Rotary Engine's 40th Anniversary''' on May 30.

<gallery>
Image:52992 a maz.jpg
</gallery>

===Styles and Major Options===
The 2007 MX-5 comes available in 4 trims: the SV, Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. In addition, all trims with the exception of the SV are available in both softtop and hardtop versions. All come equipped with the same standard 2.0L 166[[hp]] [[I-4]] engine and rear wheel drive, and while the SV and Sport trims have 5-speed [[manual transmission]]s, the Touring and Grand Touring feature a 6-speed [[manual transmission]]. Other standout features are as follows:

'''SV'''
*16" silver alloy wheels
*4-way front bucket seats
*Cloth seating and vinyl door trim
*Manual convertible roof
*4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system
*Power windows and mirrors

'''Sport'''
*Available power convertible hardtop roof
*Leather/metal-look steering wheel material
[[image:2007_MX-5_blueright.jpg|right|350px|thumb]]
'''Touring'''
*17" silver alloy wheels
*Leather shift knob, leather/metal-look steering wheel
*Available power convertible hardtop roof
*6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with steering wheel controls
*Power windows, locks, and mirrors

'''Grand Touring'''
*Leather seating and leatherette door trim
*7-speaker Bose AM/FM/CD audio system with amp and steering wheel controls

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[Mazda]] MX-5 can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/mazda/mx-5/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=7>
'''MX-5 Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
SV
</td>
<td>
Sport
</td>
<td>
Touring
</td>
<td>
Sport
<br>
<i>hardtop</i>
</td>
<td>
Grand Touring
</td>
<td>
Touring
<br>
<i>hardtop</i>
</td>
<td>
Grand Touring
<br>
<i>hardtop</i>
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=7>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$20,435
</td>
<td>
$21,435
</td>
<td>
$23,240
</td>
<td>
$24,350
</td>
<td>
$24,500
</td>
<td>
$25,100
</td>
<td>
$26,360
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=7>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$18,883
</td>
<td>
$19,804
</td>
<td>
$21,468
</td>
<td>
$22,490
</td>
<td>
$22,629
</td>
<td>
$23,181
</td>
<td>
$24,342
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=3>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
2.0L [[I-4]]
<br>
5-speed [[manual transmission|manual]]
</td>
<td>
2.0L [[I-4]]
<br>
6-speed [[manual transmission|manual]]
</td>
<td>
2.0L [[I-4]]
<br>
6-speed [[automatic transmission|auto]]
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=3 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
25/30
</td>
<td>
24/30
</td>
<td>
22/30
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===
Although the latest generation of the MX-5 Miata is still too young to provide accurate long-term reliability information, Consumer Reports states that "first-year reliability has been average."

===Safety===
Although the [http://www.safercar.gov NHTSA] has yet to post safety information on the MX-5, [http://www.autos.com/autos/rankings_safety?cat=passenger_cars&segment=sporty_cars&rank=safety&year=2006 Autos.com] reports that the MX-5 places 5th in safety for its Sporty Car category. Some of the standard safety equipment found on the MX-5 includes:
*Front and rear anti-roll bars
*4-wheel [[anti-lock brakes]]
*Driver/passenger front-impact [[airbag]]s
*Driver/passenger side-impact [[airbag]]s
*Occupancy sensors
*Side impact bars
*Ignition disable

===Photos===
<gallery>
Image:91MazdaMiataGreen.jpg
Image:800px-Miata_passenger_side_angle_shot_in_park.jpg
Image:800px-2006_Mazda_MX-5.jpg
image:2007_MX-5_blueleftsofttop.jpg
image:2007_MX-5_dashboard.jpg
image:2007_MX-5_engine.jpg
image:2007_MX-5_frontinterior.jpg
</gallery>

===Colors===
Colors will vary according to trim, and a complete list is viewable at [http://www.carsdirect.com/mazda/mx5_miata/colors CarsDirect.com.] Some of the available choices are:
'''Exterior'''
*Brilliant Black
*Copper Red Mica
*Highland Green
*Stormy Blue Mica
*Sunlight Silver Metallic
*True Red

'''Interior'''
*Black
*Tan

===Main Competitors===
*[[Pontiac Solstice]]
*[[Saturn Sky]]
*[[Mini Cooper]]
*[[Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder]]
[[image:2007_MX-5_frontdriving.jpg|right|350px|thumb]]

==Hybrid Models==
There are currently no [[hybrid]] models of the MX-5 in production.

==Unique Attributes==

==Resale Values==
According to [http://www.kbb.com Kelley Blue Book,] "as for the MX-5's long-term value, Kelley Blue Book expects the MX-5 to retain strong residual and resale values in the first three years, but then drop to average in years four and five."

==Criticisms (pre-2006) ==
*"Practicality doesn't apply here." - New Car Test Drive
*"Its tonneau cover is a bit fiddly to install, and at best, rudimentary." - Road & Track
*"If you're long of leg or over six feet in height, the MX-5 can still present you with a cramped driving position. The MX-5 has a small trunk and does not offer much in the way of interior storage space. If this is going to be your only mode of transport, you're not going to win many friends when it's your turn to drive the co-workers to lunch." - Kelley Blue Book
*"Ineffective windblocker" - Edmunds.com

==Current Generation: (NC: 2006–Present)==
Production of the next-generation Mazda MX-5 ('''NC''') began in May 2005 and went on sale in August, for the 2006 model year. It uses Mazda's 16-valve, 2.0 L ''MZR'' I4 engine, producing 170 [[HP|hp]] (128 kW) and 140 ft·lbf (190 N·m). Despite the engine upgrade, impressive engineering allows the car to maintain a perfect 50-50 weight distribution. 5-speed and 6-speed manual transmissions are offered as well as a 6-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.

Despite speculation, the 3rd generation shares no structural components with the [[Mazda RX-8|RX-8]]. The chassis was developed specifically for the new MX-5. Suspension has been changed from a 4-wheel double-wishbone setup to a front wishbone rear multilink setup and technologies like [[traction control]] and [[stability control]] have been added to increase drivability.

The styling harkens back to the original design while adopting a clean, more muscular profile reminiscent of the [[Audi TT]]. Some design elements have been adopted to reinforce the family relationship with the RX-8. Unlike the NA to NB update, which was mostly a nose/tail/interior change, there are substantial differences in every body panel, so current accessories will not work with the new design.

A ''Car and Driver'' test revealed a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 6.5 seconds for the NC.

The 2006 special edition "3rd Generation Limited" featured added chrome accents and special wheels. 3500 were built worldwide (300 in the UK, 750 in the USA).

===MX-5 Hardtop===
Mazda launched a coupé convertible version of the MX-5 with a three-piece folding metal hardtop in late 2006. Mazda will use the British International Motor Show for its global reveal of the new Mazda MX-5 coupe.

The Miata has a traditional front-engine, [[Rear wheel drive|rear-wheel-drive]] layout and 4-wheel independent [[double wishbone suspension]]. It comes with a 1.6 L, 1.8 L or 2.0 L longitudinally mounted engine coupled to a [[manual transmission]]. An [[automatic transmission]] is available as an option, though rarely selected by buyers.

The body is a conventional, but very light, unibody shell. Miatas also incorporate a unique trusswork called the Powerplant Frame (PPF) which connects the engine to the differential, minimizing flex and creating a tight, responsive feel. Many Miatas feature [[limited slip differential]]s and [[Antilock Braking System (ABS)|antilock brakes]]. [[Traction control]] is an option available on the third generation MX-5.

With a 50:50 front/rear weight balance (when measured with an average weight driver and a 2/3 full gas tank), the car has very neutral handling, which makes it easy to drive for the beginner, and fun for the advanced driver. Inducing oversteer is easy and very controllable. The Miata is popular in amateur and stock racing events, particularly the Sports Car Club of America's Solo2 autocross and Spec Miata race series.

==Previous Generations==
===Second generation (NB: 1999–2005)===
In 1998, Mazda released the updated model year 1999 MX-5 Miata. This model is known as the '''NB''' (referring to the model number printed on the VIN plate) or Mark 2. With its introduction, the earlier MX-5 Miata became known as the '''NA''' or Mark 1. The NB features a more powerful engine and more modern styling cues borrowed from the aggressive [[Mazda RX-7|RX-7]]. A 6-speed manual transmission became available for the top models, though the 5-speed was retained as well. In Japan, the Eunos name was dropped, as the marque was considered a commercial failure, but the successful Roadster was incorporated into the Mazda brand. Prices in the United States, the main market for the Miata, started at US$19,770.

[[Image:800px-Mazda-miata-1999-blue-side.jpg|thumb|300px|1999 Miata (Generation 2)]]
====Body and chassis====
Although many parts of the interior and body were different, the most notable changes were the headlights: the first model's retractable headlights had been exchanged for fixed ones. The new car had grown slightly in width compared to the earlier model with dimensions: length 3955 mm (155.7 in); width 1680 mm (66.1 in); height 1235 mm (48.6 in) and wheelbase 2265 mm (89.2 in). Ground clearance was a slightly reduced 135 mm (5.3 in). With the minimum of options, the NB weighed 1000 kilograms. The new model was slightly more aerodynamic than the original, with a Cd figure of 0.36.

====Suspension and wheels====
The second generation Miata continued to employ four-wheel independent suspension, with enlarged anti-roll bars of 22 mm (0.87 in) at the front and 11 mm (0.43 in) at the rear. The wheel, tire and brakes package on the second generation Miata was significantly upgraded. Front brakes were of 255 mm (10 in) diameter with 251 mm (9.9 in) at the rear. [[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|ABS]] was offered as an option. Alloy wheels were now of 14 inch or 15 inch diameter and 6 inch width, depending on the model. Sports models were equipped with the larger wheels and 195/50VR15 tires.

====Engine====
The ''BP-4W'' engine remained at 1.8 L but received several minor updates. The engine compression ratio was raised from 9.0:1 to 9.5:1 by adding slightly domed pistons. The intake cam was changed to a solid lifter design with a stronger cam. The intake runners in the head were straightened and the intake manifold was mounted higher up. The new intake manifold received a set of flappers that could uncover a resonance chamber - this was needed to fix a dead spot in the torque curve that the new head created. Power output of the new engine is quoted at 105 kW (140 [[HP|hp]]) with 119lbft of torque.

The 1.6 L ''B6'' engine remained available in some markets, including Japan.

====Performance====
The second generation Miata with the 1.8 L engine could reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in 7.9 seconds and had a top speed of 123 mph (197 km/h).

===Generation 2.5 (NB)===
[[Image:Euphonic.jpg|thumb|300px|Example of UK Spec Mk2.5 - special edition Euphonic. 1.8i]]
In 2001, a facelift to the NB was released. There were some minor design changes, with the 18 July 2000 press release announcing the new model describing the changes as "resulting in an even sportier and more forceful look". Some cockpit elements were also changed, with instrument panel gauges having a white face and red numbers. The seats were also upgraded, incorporating more support in the side bolsters, and taller headrests. Added this year for top models were 16 inch (406 mm) wheels with 205/45VR16 low-profile tires and larger brakes (10.6 inch diameter at the front and 10.9 inch at the rear). The upgraded tires and suspension allowed the new model to pull 0.88 g in lateral grip in tests by ''Car and Driver''. The body was strengthened, gaining 16% in bending rigidity and 22% in torsional rigidity. With the minimum of options the 2001 model weighed 1065 kilograms.

The 1.8 L BP-Z3 engine was slightly modified and now featured variable valve timing on the intake camshaft. The intake and exhaust system also received a minor upgrade. These modifications resulted in power output of 117 kW (155 bhp) for models delivered in Japan and Australia. The same engine produced 110 kW (146 [[HP|hp]]) in vehicles sold in the United States and Europe (likely due to more restrictive emission standards). In the United States, Mazda erroneously quoted the power figure for the Japanese and Australian model in early catalogues. ''Car and Driver'' magazine and numerous owners confirmed the missing power, and Mazda was forced to buy back a number of 2001 cars due to these misleading power claims. Owners who did not take up the buy back offer were offered an apology and free servicing for the warranty period.

32,000 2001 and 2002 model year Miatas were recalled in December of 2005 for excessive emissions.

===Mazdaspeed MX-5===
2004 saw the introduction of the [[turbocharged]] '''Mazdaspeed MX-5'''. It featured a light-pressure [[Turbo Engine|turbo]] ''BPT'' engine for 178 [[HP|hp]] rather than the S-VT ''BP-Z3''. Other features included a special suspension, upgraded transmission and clutch assemblies, upgraded drivetrain components, Racing Hart 17 inch wheels, special interior trim, and special exterior paint.

Though not officially a "Limited Edition" production run, only a small number of Mazdaspeed Miatas were produced during model years 2004 and 2005. In 2004, 4000 cars where built and in 2005, 1428.

===First Generation/Origins (NA: 1990-1997)===
The Miata was envisioned by its designers as a small [[roadster]] with a minimum of unnecessary weight and complexity. The first Miata prototype was built in California, USA and Worthing, England. Many key stylistic cues were clearly inspired by (some say copied from) the [[Lotus]] [[Lotus Elan|Elan]], a 1960s roadster that is widely considered to be one of the best handling sports cars of its day.

===A competition to design a light-weight sports car===
The design of the first generation Miata was the result of a competition between Mazda (North America) and the Tokyo Design Studio. The role of designing a front-engine, rear-wheel drive light-weight sports car was assigned to Mazda (North America) whilst the Tokyo Design Studio designed front engined, front-wheel drive and mid-engined, rear-wheel drive cars for the competition.

The first round of judging the competing designs for the MX-5 was held in April 1984. Designs were presented on paper. On paper the mid-engined car appeared the most impressive, although it was known at the time that such a layout would struggle to meet the noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) requirements of the project. It was at the second round of the competition in August 1984, when full scale clay models were presented, that the front-engined rear-wheel drive design, code-named "Duo 101," was selected as the basis for Mazda's new light-weight sports car.

The Duo 101 design, so named as either a soft-top or hard-top could be used, was referred to International Automotive Design in Worthing, England for the construction of a running prototype. The prototype was built with a fiberglass body, a 1.4 L engine from a Mazda Familia and other components from a variety of early Mazda models. The prototype was completed in August 1985 and code-named the V705 by Mazda.

After some minor changes in the design, presented in clay model form by the designers from Mazda (North America), the project was given final approval on 18 January 1986. The project was now code-named P729 by Mazda. The task of constructing five engineering mules was again allocated to International Automotive Design, who also conducted the first front and rear crash tests on the prototype. The project then returned to Japan for final engineering details and production issues to be decided.

===The Miata meets the public===
[[Image:Mazda_eunos_roadster_335939_2.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Mazda Eunos Roadster(1993) manufactured for japanese market]]

The Miata was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show on 10 February 1989, with a price tag of US$13,800. The Miata would be available for purchase by the public from July 1989 as a 1990 model. In Japan, the car was not badged as a Mazda, as the company was experimenting with the creation of different brands for deluxe models, similar to Nissan's Infiniti and Toyota's [[Lexus|Lexus]]. Instead, the Mazda MX-5 was called the '''Eunos Roadster''' in its own market.

====Body and chassis====
The body shell of the Miata is all-steel with an aluminium bonnet. The overall dimensions are: length 3970 mm (156.3 in); width 1675 mm (65.9 in); height 1235 mm (48.6 in); wheelbase 2265 mm (89.2 in). Ground clearance is 140 mm (5.5 in). Without options, the NA model MX-5 weighed 940 kilograms. The body was reasonably aerodynamic, with a Cd figure of 0.38.

====Suspension and wheels====
The Miata employs independent double wishbone suspension on all four wheels with an 18 mm (0.71 in) [[anti-roll bar]] at the front. [[4-wheel disc brakes|Four wheel disc brakes]] of 235 mm (9.3 in) diameter (ventilated) at the front and 231 mm (9.1 in) at the rear stopped 5.5 inch wide 14 inch alloy wheels with 185/60HR14 [[radial tire]]s.

====Engine====
The original Miata came with a 1.6 L double overhead cam inline four-cylinder engine, producing 90 kW (120 bhp) and 100 lbf·ft (136 N·m) of torque. The engine employs an L-Jetronic fuel injection system and a camshaft angle sensor instead of a distributor. This engine was previously used by Mazda in the 323 series, including the 323 GTX, a [[Turbo Engine|turbocharged]], all-wheel drive vehicle, and retains the plumbing ports required for aftermarket turbocharging.

====Performance====
The first generation Miata could reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in 8.2 seconds and had a top speed of 119 mph (190 km/h).

[[Image:DSC00971.jpg|thumb|300px|1995 M-Edition Miata (Generation 1.5)]]

===Generation 1.5 (NA)===
The MX-5 Miata was freshened for 1994 with the introduction of a more powerful 1.8 L ''[[Mazda B engine#BP|BP]]'' engine, dual [[airbag]]s, a geared, torque-sensing [[limited slip differential]], and other options. The new engine produced 98 kW (130 [[HP|hp]]) and the standard model weighed 990 kilograms (2183 lb). In some markets such as the UK the 1.6 engine continued to be available as a lower-cost option, but was detuned to only 88 bhp to make it less competitive with the 1.8. Later 1.8 engines were up in power to 133 bhp due to the use of a more sophisticated engine management system (OBD-II).

There were a number of trim levels and special editions available. The standard model was called the "A Package" for the Miata models. A "B Package" added some options, while the "C Package" included a tan interior and top and leather seats. A special "R Package" was introduced for racing, and the annual special editions were formalized as "M Editions." These included all of the luxury options from the C package as well as special paint and, sometimes, special wheels. This generation was phased out in the 1997 model year, with the final 1500 NA Miatas produced being the "STO" ("Special Touring Option") versions. (These special editions refer to North American markets only.)

==Worldwide==
===Mazda MX-5 SP===
In 2001 Mazda Australia produced a limited run (100 cars) of [[Turbo Engine|turbocharged]] MX-5s labelled the SP. These were said to be the inspiration for the Mazdaspeed MX-5 however they only had an upgraded intake/[[Turbo Engine|turbo]] and exhaust unlike the Mazdaspeed MX-5 which has a stronger engine, gearbox and diff, with upgraded cooling system, interior and bodykit. Over 215 parts went into upgrading the performance of the SP creating a powerful sportscar that looked identical to a standard MX-5. The driveline, braking, suspension and engine internals remained standard. The upgraded engine was rated at 150 kW (201 [[HP|hp]]).

=== Mazda Roadster Coupe ===
Mazda Engineering and Technology Co. Ltd. (Mazda E&T), a division of Mazda Japan, produced a limited run of Mazda Roadsters for the Japanese market with a permanent fixed hardtop roof. The body structure was reworked to incorporate the roof for a substantial increase in chassis rigidity and a weight increase of 10 kg. A range of models were produced, from a basic 1.6 L version, to heavily restyled boutique models. No Roadster Coupes were exported, though an example upgraded to Mazdaspeed specifications was shown to international audiences.

==Design quirks and oddities==
Since production began, over 700,000 Miatas have been made, leading the Guinness Book of Records to name it the world's best-selling sports car on February 13 2002.

==Awards==
The Miata has been on '''Car and Driver''' magazine's annual ''Ten Best'' list seven times: The NA from its introduction in 1990 through 1992; the NB on its introduction in 1998 as well as 1999 and 2001; and the NC on its introduction in 2006.
The NA was also ''Wheels Magazine'''s Car of the Year for 1989 with the NC taking the award for 2005. '''Wheels Magazine''' also named the car the ''Best Overall Design'' in the 2006 ''Wheels Automotive Design Awards''.

In the November 2004 edition of '''Sports Car International magazine''', the Miata was chosen as the ''best sports car of the 1990s''. In the March 2005 edition of the same magazine, the six-decade countdown culminated in the ''"Ten Best Sports Cars of All Time"'' issue, of which the Miata secured the number 10 spot, bested only by the likes of exotics and otherwise unobtainable icons of automotive history.

The NC was named the 2005-2006 ''Japan Car of the Year''.

==Production numbers==
{| class=wikitable align=right style="margin: auto auto 1em 5em"
|+Source: official Mazda records
|-
!Year!!Production
|-
|1988||12 (pre-production models)
|-
|1989||45,266
|-
|1990||95,640
|-
|1991||63,434
|-
|1992||52,712
|-
|1993||44,743
|-
|1994||39,623
|-
|1995||31,886
|-
|1996||33,610
|-
|1997||27,037
|-
|1998||58,682
|-
|1999||44,851
|-
|2000||47,496
|-
|2001||38,870
|-
|2002||40,754
|-
|2003||30,106
|-
|2004||24,232
|-
|2005||29,950
|-
|2006||48,389
|-
!Total!!797,293
|}
For a breakdown of the production numbers, by color and by option package, see the [http://www.miata.net/faq/production.html Miata.net Mazda MX-5 Miata FAQ].

The 250,000th MX-5 rolled out of the factory on [[November 9]] [[1992]]; the 500,000th, on [[February 8]] [[1999]]; the 750,000th, in [[March]] [[2004]]; and the 800,000 in [[January]] [[2007]].

==In Popular Culture==
*Cars - Secondary characters Mia and Tia (a play on the name Miata) a pair of NASCAR fans are animated Miatas.

*Go - A character in this early Katie Holmes-starring film is murdered and their body is stashed in the trunk of a Sunburst Yellow 1992 Miata.

*The Benchwarmers - One of the main character's bat flys out of his hands and goes through the windshield of a Miata parked nearby. A player on the opposing team yells, "That's my Miata!," and the team beats up the Miata-owner.

*Need For Speed Underground and Need For Speed Underground 2 - In these video games, you can buy and upgrade Miatas.

*Gran Turismo 4 - In this videogame you can buy and upgrade most Miata models.

*Juiced - In this video game, you can buy and upgrade Miatas.

*Forza - Another video game featuring buying and upgrading the Miata.

*Yes, Dear - Greg buys a Miata, which many think is for Kim, but he says that he bought it for himself. Jimmy tells him that he made a bad choice, and that the Miata is a "chick car", but he ignores him. Later, while he is driving the Miata, a young girl tells him how his car is nice, and how it looks like her Barbie's, and the radio breaks, causing it to play Girls Just Wanna Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper at a very loud volume.

*Sister Sister - Tia and Tamara Mowry have a red miata that their parents purchased for them.

==See also==
* [[Mazda]]
* [[Spec Miata]]

{{Mazda}}

==References==
* Long, B. ''MX-5 Miata - The full story of the world's favourite sports car'', Veloce Publishing, 2002. ISBN 1-903706-21-1
* Carey, J. (March, 2005). "New Mazda MX-5". Wheels (Australia), p. 48.

==External links==
* [http://www.roadster.mazda.co.jp/ Mazda Japan official Roadster site]
* [http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/displayPage.action?pageParameter=modelsMain&vehicleCode=MX5 Mazda USA official MX-5 site]
* [http://www.mazda.co.uk/Showroom/MX-5/ Mazda UK official MX-5 site]
* [http://www.mazda.com.au/mx5/ Mazda Australia official MX-5 site]
* [http://www.miata.net/ Miata.net] an MX-5/Miata resource and owner community
* [http://www.miataturbo.net/ Turbo Miata online community]
* [http://specs.amayama.com/mazda/eunos_roadster Mazda Eunos Roadster specs]
* [http://www.mx-5.com/ MX-5.community] an owner community sponsored by Mazda Motor Europe
* [http://www.best-cartuning.com/Mazda/index.php Mazda Tuning Parts]
* [http://www.ozmazda.com/ OzMazda.com - Australian Online Mazda Community]
* [http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2007/10/mazda-miata-mx-5-rht-prestige-edition.html Mazda Miata / MX-5 RHT "Prestige Edition"]

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mazda_MX-5 Mazda MX-5], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mazda_MX-5&action=history contributors].

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