/articles/2006/07/mazda_hardtop
Over at the British Motor Show today, Mazda released more information on the new hardtop version of its MX-5 roadster. Formerly known as the Miata here in the states, the MX-5 was completely redesigned in 2005, and the new MX-5 Power Retractable Hardtop — yep that’s the name — will arrive before the end of 2006.
What’s cool about this retractable hardtop is that it takes up no more space than a standard soft-top. That leaves the MX-5’s decent-sized trunk completely intact. For speed demons out there concerned about the added weight of a hardtop, fear not. The entire top and additional power motor add only 85 pounds to the soft-top’s weight. Mazda has also altered the suspension to compensate for the weight, and best of all it takes just 12 seconds to go from top-up to sunbathing. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but we’re sticking by our earlier guess of at least $2,000 over the starting price, which ranges between $20,470 and $26,700.
Click below for more pictures of the roof in action.
[Source: Mazda]
