Pros: True to its name, looks more expensive than it is, good power-weight ratio, cool interior.
Cons: Where'd the windshield go? Rear looks like a regular Miata, could use a few more ponies.
As the sun beats down on the asphalt, we take the Mazda MX-5 Superlight to its "home" track of Laguna Seca and see whether this stripped out version of the popular Japanese sports car has what it takes to tame infamous Corkscrew.
As the sun beats down on the asphalt, we take the Mazda MX-5 Superlight to its "home" track of Laguna Seca and see whether this stripped out version of the popular Japanese sports car has what it takes to tame infamous Corkscrew.
The MX-5 reminds us of the very fast (and very expensive) Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss.
Pulling away from the lights, it is still possible to “light up” the rear tires in the tiny-engined MX-5 due to it’s excellent power to weight ratio (125-hp but only weighing in at 2,194-lbs). The car seems very well mannered through the first series of turns and is easy to set up going into and out of these demanding corners. As I said before, due to the lack of assists, it is still possible to “lose” the back end.
Despite its good looks, the MX-5 doesn't look much different than a regular Miata from the rear.
The MX-5's interior and gauges look great, as do those futuristic-looking high-mount brake lights.
Heading up to the world-famous Corkscrew, the car seems at home here (which is a good thing as Mazda sponsors the track!) and I’m beginning to warm to it's almost “Caterham-like” mantra of less weight, which results in faster lap times and more driver enjoyment.
Thanks to its super light weight (pun intended), the MX-5 gets through the Corkscrew with ease and great maneuverability.
Now for the heart stopping bit - The Corkscrew. After braking hard and turning in, the car goes even lighter than normal and it’s almost like dropping off a skyscraper. The MX-5 copes admirably and levels out well. Linking the last few corners together is a joy, and after just one lap, the car is doing a very good job of finding a place in my OWN garage. I must admit it might be short on power, but in the lower class it should hold its own.
The MX-5 feels at home on Laguna Seca, especially through the Corkscrew.
The car still feels surefooted and responds well to road changes. Even going through The Corkscrew seems less daunting.
To sum up, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight is a well mannered and fun sports car, which is a modern-day throwback to the greats of yesteryear.
-ValiantSaint
