A Bite of History: Mazda Miata MX-5

A Bite of History by Mike Thies

Mazda Miata MX-5

In a world where sports cars were either too expensive or too unreliable, 1989 brought us a game-changer from Japan: the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Inspired by classic British roadsters (think Lotus Elan, MGB), but without the electrical tantrums and oil puddles, the Miata nailed the formula; lightweight, rear-wheel drive, stick shift, and a grin per gear.

It debuted at the Chicago Auto Show and instantly won hearts with its pop-up headlights and perfectly balanced chassis. Mazda didn’t just make a car, they rekindled the spirit of pure, affordable driving fun. Over four generations and countless autocrosses, the Miata has become a global icon.

Its motto could be: “Horsepower is fun, but handling is forever.”

Still one of the most-raced cars on Earth. Still more fun than cars three times the price. And yes it is still a convertible with a soul.

Views: 34

Comment

You need to be a member of SOUTH EAST USA WHEELS EVENTS-Car and Motorcycle Events Calendar to add comments!

Join SOUTH EAST USA WHEELS EVENTS-Car and Motorcycle Events Calendar


Blog Posts

The Class Host at a Concours d’Elegance by Mike Thies

The Class Host at a Concours d’Elegance by Mike Thies

The Person Who Keeps the Field Working

A Concours d’Elegance may look simple from the outside: beautiful cars, polished chrome, fresh grass, well-dressed owners, judges with clipboards, and spectators enjoying the day. But anyone who has worked behind the scenes knows better. A…

Continue

Posted by Michael Thies on June 12, 2026 at 2:09pm

A Bite of History - Marcos  By Mike Thies

A Bite of History - Marcos 

By Mike Thies

The Marcos was one of those wonderfully unconventional British sports car companies that could only have come from the postwar racing world. The company was founded in 1959 by Jem Marsh and aerodynamicist Frank Costin, with the name Marcos coming from Marsh and Costin. Costin brought serious aircraft and racing design experience to the project, and that influence showed up immediately in the cars: low frontal area, light weight,…

Continue

Posted by Michael Thies on June 1, 2026 at 4:41pm

© 2026   Created by Global Wheels Events.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service