This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Mazda Roadster (known in North America as the MX-5 Miata), a sports car that has led the global roadster market since its debut in 1989. With its unwavering commitment to driving pleasure, the Roadster has gained a worldwide fanbase. However, in response to the industry’s shift toward electrification, Mazda is preparing to transition the Roadster to an electric vehicle in the near future.
The 35th Anniversary model, revealed at the Daytona 24 Hours endurance race in January, celebrates the pinnacle of the internal combustion engine (ICE) roadsters. This special edition underscores Mazda’s racing heritage while reaffirming its commitment to delivering a pure driving experience.
Design Touches That Blend Tradition and Luxury
The 35th Anniversary edition introduces several exclusive design elements. The exterior is painted in a striking Artisan Red Metallic, a color borrowed from the flagship CX-90 SUV. A rear spoiler complements this in the same shade, a distinctive 35th Anniversary badge, and exclusive 17-inch wheels that enhance the model’s exclusivity.
The car’s roof features a manually operated tan soft top, color, and style that have been a signature of Mazda Roadsters since the first-generation NA model. The tan theme continues with Nappa leather seats, while the headrests are embroidered with a 35th Anniversary emblem. The lower dashboard and door panels also feature tan accents, maintaining the classic charm that has defined the brand for decades.
Driving Dynamics Perfected for Enthusiasts
This 35th-anniversary model maintains the driving pleasure of the Mazda Roadster while providing even more upgraded driving performance. The powertrain is equipped with the same 2.0L 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine as the existing model, generating a maximum output of 181 horsepower and a maximum torque of 151 lb-ft (approximately 205 Nm). The transmission is only a 6-speed manual transmission. This combination best brings out the driving essence the model pursues.
The chassis and suspension configuration were also designed with considerable care. The 35th Anniversary model, built based on the North American Grand Touring trim, has a front strut tower bar, sports suspension with Bilstein dampers, a dynamic stability control system for track driving, and LSD as standard. This allows you to experience the agile handling characteristic of a roadster on regular roads and circuits.
Technology and Safety Features for the Modern Driver
It is also loaded with cutting-edge technologies. Automatic air conditioning, a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated seats, and navigation are standard. Safety features include an adaptive front lighting system (AFS), an automatic high beam, and road sign recognition. In addition, infotainment features such as a BOSE 9-speaker audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and satellite radio have been enhanced.
Only 300 units of the 35th Anniversary Roadster will be produced worldwide, starting at $37,435. This special edition model comes with a premium customer experience, further enhancing its appeal as a collector’s item. As the Mazda Roadster prepares to enter the electric era, this 35th Anniversary edition serves as a fitting tribute to the end of an era for pure internal combustion engine sports cars.
