MAZDA'S MX-5 has not lost sight of its original guidelines at any stage during the past decade. The latest version, carefully revised in 1998, retains the charm of the '89 original. So the neat handling, cute looks and basic sports car attributes are still there, even if the engine has grown over the years from its original 1.6-litres to 1.8-litres, and even if the original pop-up headlights have been scrapped in favour of more trendy, lightweight fixed units.

Mazda MX-5
Released: Oct 1989
Ended: Sept 1997
Family Tree: MX-5The MX-5 gained a bigger 1.8-litre engine (up from 1.6-litres) and power steering in 1993 but generally remained true to its original sports car principles. Timeless styling and true character have endeared the front-engined, rear-drive MX-5 to car enthusiasts.
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