Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) unveiled the next generation of Spec Miata at the New York International Auto Show. "With the all-new 2006 Mazda MX-5 as a starting point, it was easy for us to create the fastest, best-handling and most comprehensively prepared Spec Miata yet," said Steve Sanders, manager, MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development. "The combination of a tuned suspension, a willing engine and consistent braking means Miatas always have made terrific racecars. With more grip, more power and more stopping ability, the new MX-5 is the perfect starting point to be the very best Miata racecar yet."The Spec Miata series provides an affordable, entry-level nationwide class whereby amateur racing drivers can compete in inexpensive, identically prepared first- and second-generation Miatas. The greatest attraction of the series is that all regions of the country use similar rules and regulations, enabling drivers to compete nationally and always remain competitive. Components for the cars are sold directly through MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development(http://www.mazdaspeedmotorsports.com/ ), which also supports the program monetarily with contingency awards to successful drivers.The all-new 2006 MX-5 Miata is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder MZR engine, derived from the powerplant used in the MAZDA and MAZDA . In stock trim, it produces 170-hp at 7000 rpm and a very flat and usable torque curve peaking at 140 lb-ft. at 5000 rpm.
To turn the new MX-5 into a racecar, MAZDASPEED turned to a number of respected suppliers and partners, and the build-sheet reads like a who’s-who of the racing community:
ENGINE
Racing Beat stainless steel header and exhaust system
Idemitsu racing lubricants for engine, transmission and differential
SUSPENSION
Racing Beat swaybars MAZDASPEED shock absorbers MAZDASPEED springs Racing Hart wheels, sized 18 x 7.5 inches Hankook Ventus DOT-legal racing tires, shaved to racing depth
INTERIOR/SAFETY
AWR custom-designed and fabricated six-point rollcage
AiM Sports MXL Pista custom dash display and data-logger
Sparco racing seat
Sparco steering wheel
Sparco six-point racing harness
Maziora custom-blended paint from Nippon Paint
Mother’s polishes and waxes
Often held in conjunction with SCCA professional road-racing events and sanctioned by SCCA Pro Racing, the current MAZDASPEED Miata Cup professional Spec Miata series is absolutely the least expensive way to participate in top-flight road racing in front of professional teams and large crowds.
Info at http://www.specmiata.com/
