Picture of Next Generation Miata (NC)

Actaeon

Diamond Member
Dec 28, 2000
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Front
Rear

I've always been skeptical of these Japanese Magazine spy shots, but this definately looks like a Miata. From what I've seen from spy shots and this picture, plenty of similar traits. So I honestly think this will resemble the real thing.

Regarding the front, it reminds me of the early S2000s with fog lamps. I feel the front grill is a bit too high on the car. Perhaps if the front grill was smaller, lower, and the front end looked a bit more aggressive, it would look pretty good. If the car was in a different color, I think it would look alot better.

Looks like Mazda is going with a 5 lug configuration this generation. I really don't like that because one of the best features on current Miatas is the interchangeability of most parts. Regarding the style, I think they're alright. The size appears to be perfect, but the style leaves a little to be desired. I personally would not purchase an aftermarket rim of that style. They look like 17s, and will likely be pretty heavy.

The rear looks alright. I believe the tail lights would look better on a different colored car (Silver/black), rather than Orange. I've noticed the dual tipped exhaust gives it a bit more aggressive look.

The front and wheels look okay, while the rear appears to have the best improvement. I think with a different color, the car would look alot better. I'll have to wait until I can see bigger, more detailed pictures, as well as the car in a different color.

As far as performance goes, its rumored to weigh between 2400-2500lbs. According to these scans, it weighs 1100kbs, about 2425lbs. Rumor has it, Mazda is going to have engine options, including the 2.3L I4 they use in the Mazda3 which puts out 160hp. Nothing yet on a Mazdaspeed version. I expect performance to be slightly higher than the current Miatas. Very close, but not quite as fast as the current Mazdaspeed version.

So as of now, I think the car would look better in a different color, but until I see it, I really can't decide. Until I see better/more pictures, I still think the Mazdaspeed Miata and the 2003 SE Blue look the best.

As far as new cars go, I really like the Saturn Sky, and the VW Concept R. If they're all within the same price range, with similar performance, its going to be a tough time for me to decide which to buy. As a Miata owner, I'm actually leaning towards the Sky/Concept R over the 3rd Gen Miata. I just didn't get that WOW factor with the new Miata than I did with the Sky/Concept R.


EDIT:
I'm not exactly in the optimal financial situation to buy another car, but if I was, these are the other cars I'll be looking at. These will likely be direct competitors with the Miata.

Saturn Sky
VW Concept R
Pontiac Solstice

EDIT: Added Solstice, "sister" to the Saturn Sky. The Sky looks much better imo.
 

NFS4

No Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
72,636
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Originally posted by: GtPrOjEcTX
all the miatas look the same to me

Isn't that the point? That's like saying all Corvettes look the same...well no sh!t
 

Actaeon

Diamond Member
Dec 28, 2000
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I'm not exactly in the optimal financial situation to buy another car, but if I was, these are the other cars I'll be looking at. These will likely be direct competitors with the Miata.

Saturn Sky
VW Concept RPontiac Solstice

EDIT: Added Solstice, "sister" to the Saturn Sky. The Sky looks much better imo.
 

Rent

Diamond Member
Aug 8, 2000
7,127
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184lbs/6'4"

I've wedged myself in a MS Miata. It took 2 minutes to get in and 2 to get out.

I fit very well in a RX8 :D
 

SuperTool

Lifer
Jan 25, 2000
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I don't think those are real. I don't know, it looks too goofy. I thought it would look more Brittish, and this looks more Japanese.
Also, I preffer Saturn Sky.
 

NFS4

No Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
72,636
47
91
Originally posted by: SuperTool
I don't think those are real. I don't know, it looks too goofy. I thought it would look more Brittish, and this looks more Japanese.
Also, I preffer Saturn Sky.

The Saturn will also be about 400-500 lbs heavier with roughly the same power output (if the Miata stays around the same weight and comes 160-170HP as standard).

The Sky will have 170HP and be roughly 2,900 lbs.
 

b0mbrman

Lifer
Jun 1, 2001
29,470
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Originally posted by: Actaeon
EDIT:
I'm not exactly in the optimal financial situation to buy another car, but if I was, these are the other cars I'll be looking at. These will likely be direct competitors with the Miata.

Saturn Sky
Concept R
Don't forget Solstice...and the MR2 (which hasn't been much competition so far)
 

Actaeon

Diamond Member
Dec 28, 2000
8,657
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Originally posted by: b0mbrman
Originally posted by: Actaeon
EDIT:
I'm not exactly in the optimal financial situation to buy another car, but if I was, these are the other cars I'll be looking at. These will likely be direct competitors with the Miata.

Saturn Sky
Concept R
Don't forget Solstice...and the MR2 (which hasn't been much competition so far)

Yeah, the Solstice is also included, but It doesnt' look nearly as good as those other two, but I'll link it. The MR-S on the other hand, it is being canceled. Along with the Celica, I think 2005 is its last year.
 

SuperTool

Lifer
Jan 25, 2000
14,000
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Originally posted by: NFS4
Originally posted by: SuperTool
I don't think those are real. I don't know, it looks too goofy. I thought it would look more Brittish, and this looks more Japanese.
Also, I preffer Saturn Sky.

The Saturn will also be about 400-500 lbs heavier with roughly the same power output (if the Miata stays around the same weight and comes 160-170HP as standard).

The Sky will have 170HP and be roughly 2,900 lbs.

I don't think it will be that heavy. What would give you that impression? Are you talking about Curb Weight or Gross Weight?
 

SuperTool

Lifer
Jan 25, 2000
14,000
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Originally posted by: lnguyen
i'm 5'5" and i found the miata to be too damned small :( Well, it was more the top of the windshield was just a visable irk for me.

I am 6' and I didn't have any problems driving a 1996 Miata.
 

Amused

Elite Member
Apr 14, 2001
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Originally posted by: SuperTool
Originally posted by: lnguyen
i'm 5'5" and i found the miata to be too damned small :( Well, it was more the top of the windshield was just a visable irk for me.

I am 6' and I didn't have any problems driving a 1996 Miata.

I'm 6' as well and the top bar of the windshield is directly in my line of sight. To drive one I have to slouch down to see.
 

SuperTool

Lifer
Jan 25, 2000
14,000
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Originally posted by: Amused
Originally posted by: SuperTool
Originally posted by: lnguyen
i'm 5'5" and i found the miata to be too damned small :( Well, it was more the top of the windshield was just a visable irk for me.

I am 6' and I didn't have any problems driving a 1996 Miata.

I'm 6' as well and the top bar of the windshield is directly in my line of sight. To drive one I have to slouch down to see.

It was above my line of sight though. Are you sure you don't have a fat @ss propping you up a couple inches? :D
 

Apex

Diamond Member
Oct 11, 1999
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www.gotapex.com
Meh.

I don't know what it is, but I've never liked miatas. Heck, even went as far as renting one for while, just to drive it around. Nope, didn't change my opinion. :( As much as I wanted to like this lightweight, basic rear drive "sportscar," it just didn't do it for me.