The Mazda MX-5 is the most successful roadster ever, with over a million units sold over four generations. And no matter how good the reliability it is known for, time ends up leaving its marks.
The first examples of the MX-5 – NA generation – are already 28 years old, but even so, many of their owners refuse to renovate them. They want to continue to guide them and on a regular basis.
Mazda listened to its customers and launched a restoration program for the MX-5 NA. We've already seen similar restoration programs from other manufacturers – Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, to name a few – but for a model as affordable as the Mazda MX-5, it should be a first.
The program is divided into two types of service. The first is dedicated to the restoration of the entire car. By asking customers what they want from their Mazda MX-5, the Japanese brand guarantees a return to a state as close as possible to the original. To ensure quality of service, the brand will seek classic car garage certification by TÜV Rheinland Japan Co., Ltd.
The second service of its program is directed towards the reproduction of original pieces. Among the targeted parts, Mazda will again produce hoods, Nardi steering wheels in wood and the gearshift lever knob in the same material. Even the tires of the first MX-5, the Bridgestone SF325 with the original measurements – 185/60 R14 -, will be produced again.
The brand will continue to question and listen to Mazda MX-5 NA owners to decide which other parts should be reproduced.
It's not all good news
The restoration program starts this year, with Mazda taking the MX-5 directly from the owners. The restoration process itself and the reproduction of parts will start in 2018. This is undoubtedly good news for those who want to keep their MX-5s on the road for many years to come.
There is only one problem. For those interested, the restoration program will take place exclusively at Mazda's facilities in Hiroshima, Japan. Logistically and financially, sending the car to the other side of the planet could prove problematic. And regarding the parts, there is still no information available on how they can be purchased.