A Sign Of Things to Come?

Mazda wants to cut 720 pounds from the next Miata and we know Ford is
planning a smaller, lighter, next-generation Mustang. Are we soon to
enter an age of flyweight performance cars? Read on...

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Mazda is hoping to put the next-generation on an extreme diet compared
to the current model. According to an insider Mazda's engineers have
been given the task of cutting at least 720 pounds from the 2,480
pound curb weight of the current Miata. Mazda hopes that the next-
generation Miata will be more closer in character to the original 1989
model. The original Miata weighted 2,178 pounds.

According to the inside source that spoke with Inside Line, the goal
will probably not be met, but engineers have made some progress. Some
of the methods that the engineers are using is high-strength steel for
the body and a smaller, lighter engine. Other things are going to be
deleted from the next Miata, like a dashboard glovebox and an owner's
manual.

The next Miata will also be smaller and narrower. The engine is also
going to be downsized and could be as small as 1.4 liters. Of course a
turbocharger and direct injection will boost the power of the tiny
engine.
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Patrick