Mazda MX-5 reaches another major milestone

The Mazda MX-5 (Miata in other markets) will hit a new record this week, with the 900,000th model set to roll off the production line.

It took Mazda 21 years and 10 months to reach this landmark, after the first model rolled off the production line in April 1989. The UK accounts for over 10% of global sales and 40% of European sales.

“For British motorists, the Mazda MX-5 is the ultimate expression of our Zoom-Zoom philosophy of creating cars that are fun to drive,” comments Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director, Mazda UK. “Over 20 years, the MX-5 has maintained its position as an affordable, lightweight sportscar that is responsive and rewarding to drive, while also proving itself to be ‘recession proof’. We sold 10 percent more MX-5s last year than we did in 2009 and owners enjoy remarkably high residual values. The introduction of the third-generation models meant that the MX-5 became much more than a ‘sunny weekend’ car and the Roadster Coupe, featuring the electric folding roof, now accounts for the majority of sales as buyers look to use their Mazda sportscar all-year round.”

Nobuhiro Yamamoto, programme manager for the current MX-5, said, “Since Mazda launched the original MX-5, it has undergone two complete product redesigns and a series of upgrades. Its enduring success is due to the strong support it enjoys from MX-5 fans around the world. Going forwards, I will strive to keep the MX-5’s spirit alive while evolving it into a car that will be loved by even more people.”