WhipLash
10-07-2000, 08:14 AM
From What Car :
Mazda is planning three rotary-engined performance models all based on the platform of its next-generation MX-5. Potentially the most exciting of the three will be a high-powered version of the MX-5 roadster itself, probably named the RX-5.
With up to 270bhp available from the latest normally aspirated production version of Mazda's 2.6-litre rotary engine, the new roadster should out-perform Porsche's £38,000 252bhp Boxster S, while costing £10,000 less.
The fastest current Boxster tops 160mph and races to 60mph in six seconds dead. The RX-5 should not only be more powerful, but technical advances mean it is unlikely to weigh more than the 1295kg Boxster when it goes on sale in 2003.
To distinguish the RX-5 visually from the more conventional four-cylinder 1.8-litre MX-5, Mazda will opt for two distinctive body styles. Taking advantage of the rotary power unit's more compact dimensions, the RX-5 will feature a leaner, lower bonnet line, with wings drawn in over larger wheels. The same taut panel treatment will be used on the rear arches, making it look more dynamic than the MX-5.
Joining the MX-5 and RX-5 in Mazda's revamped line-up will be an all-new two-seater RX-7 coupe based on a stretched version of the new MX-5 platform, probably using the same 270bhp engine as the RX-5.
The same platform also underpins the radical four-door, four-seat `coupe', the RX Evolv, which Mazda has also hinted will enter production as its sporting flagship.
All three models will share a basic suspension layout, believed to be a development of the set-up used on today's MX-5. Cost and emissions considerations have led Mazda to install its rotary engine into more new models.
Mazda is planning three rotary-engined performance models all based on the platform of its next-generation MX-5. Potentially the most exciting of the three will be a high-powered version of the MX-5 roadster itself, probably named the RX-5.
With up to 270bhp available from the latest normally aspirated production version of Mazda's 2.6-litre rotary engine, the new roadster should out-perform Porsche's £38,000 252bhp Boxster S, while costing £10,000 less.
The fastest current Boxster tops 160mph and races to 60mph in six seconds dead. The RX-5 should not only be more powerful, but technical advances mean it is unlikely to weigh more than the 1295kg Boxster when it goes on sale in 2003.
To distinguish the RX-5 visually from the more conventional four-cylinder 1.8-litre MX-5, Mazda will opt for two distinctive body styles. Taking advantage of the rotary power unit's more compact dimensions, the RX-5 will feature a leaner, lower bonnet line, with wings drawn in over larger wheels. The same taut panel treatment will be used on the rear arches, making it look more dynamic than the MX-5.
Joining the MX-5 and RX-5 in Mazda's revamped line-up will be an all-new two-seater RX-7 coupe based on a stretched version of the new MX-5 platform, probably using the same 270bhp engine as the RX-5.
The same platform also underpins the radical four-door, four-seat `coupe', the RX Evolv, which Mazda has also hinted will enter production as its sporting flagship.
All three models will share a basic suspension layout, believed to be a development of the set-up used on today's MX-5. Cost and emissions considerations have led Mazda to install its rotary engine into more new models.