Out the door: 900,000 MX-5s
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Mazda
4th February, 2011
Total production of the Mazda MX-5 sports car has today
reached 900,000 units.
This milestone has been achieved 21 years and 10 months after mass production of the
first-generation MX-5 commenced in April 1989.
The MX-5 was initially certified by Guinness World Records as the world’s “Best selling two-seat
sports car” when production reached 531,890 units in May 2000.
Guinness updated the record when production passed 700,000 and, later, 800,000 units.
Currently, Mazda is reapplying to Guinness World Records to have the record updated to 900,000
units!
During the 1960s and 1970s, numerous lightweight and fun-to-drive sports cars offered nimble
handling and free-spirited open-air motoring.
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In the 1980s, Mazda decided to 'revive' this spirit with a new roadster for the modern age.
Using the latest engineering techniques, Mazda developed the MX-5 and announced it in February 1989
as a reminder that driving could still be fun despite ever-stricter safety and quality standards.
To this day, the MX-5 remains the longest enduring nameplate in Mazda’s global line-up.
Nobuhiro Yamamoto, programme manager of the current MX-5, said, “Since Mazda launched the
original MX-5, it has undergone two complete product redesigns and a series of upgrades. Its enduring
success is due to the strong support it enjoys from MX-5 fans around the world. Going forward, I will
strive to keep the MX-5’s spirit alive while evolving it into a car that will be loved by even more
people.”
Mazda’s executive officer in charge of development, Seita Kanai, said, “More than 20 years have
passed since the first-generation Mazda MX-5 was 'born'. During this time, society and vehicles
themselves have changed significantly. Responding to environmental issues and the depletion of the
Earth’s natural resources has become increasingly important for all automakers. As part of its
environmental efforts, Mazda announced its new SKYACTIV technologies last year. Currently, we are
pushing forward with development of future products that will incorporate these technologies. Many of
the elements that go into our SKYACTIV technologies, such as comprehensive weight reduction, grew
from the long years of development work that have gone into the MX-5. Indeed, the guiding principle
behind the SKYACTIV technologies — to build cars that are fun to drive — is perfectly embodied by the
MX-5.”
“As we head toward the next production milestone of one million units,” Kanai continued,
“Mazda is committed to further evolving the MX-5. We will refine its fun-to-drive character and
further enhance its environmental and safety capabilities. As Mazda passes its 91st birthday, we are
turning our sights toward our 100th anniversary. In the years ahead, we will continue to cherish
the MX-5, alongside its loyal fan base, as the symbol of the Mazda brand.”
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