SEMA’s Lightweight Mazda MX-5 Concepts Revealed In All Their Glory

Mazda pulled the wraps off their teased MX-5 concepts at SEMA, showing two different approaches for boosting the little roadster’s driving appeal.

Both of them drew inspiration from vintage roadsters with the MX-5 Spyder aiming at everyday thrills, featuring a bikini top, some carbon fiber aero agenda, a grille intake, a set of lightweight 17-inch wheels and a full-grain leather interior. Painted in Mercury Silver, the MX-5 Spyder is based on the regular 2.0-litre model packing adjustable coilover suspension and a curb weight figure of 1043kg (2301lbs).

The MX-5 Speedster on the other hand goes one step further as it features hardcore weight-saving measures like replacing the normal doors and seats with carbon fiber ones as well as ditching the normal windshield for a deflector, taking the idea of a roadster back to its bare essentials.

The Speedster is also based on the normal 2.0-litre model but thanks to its extensive diet, it now tips the scales at just 943kg. Other modifications include a K&W adjustable coilover suspension, custom RAYS 57 16-inch wheels dressed with 225/50 Kumho Ecsta V710 performance tires and front Brembo four-piston calipers with vented rotors.

“Both MX-5 Spyder and MX-5 Speedster are uncompromising designs that highlight the core strengths of MX-5,” said Ken Saward, design manager at Mazda North American Operations. “With the all-new 2016 MX-5, we have a clean sheet to show how the aftermarket can go wild on our flagship sports car while staying true to its mission.”