December 15^th, 1998                                     

Mazda announces 10^th Anniversary Limited Edition MX-5

Designed with the same specification for all markets, the distinctive model will go on sale in Japan on January 4^th, 1999 and in Australia in March.

A total of 7,500 examples will be built, of which 150 will come to Australia. Japan has 500 reserved for its domestic market; Europe will receive 3,700 units and North America (including Canada) 3150.

The "10^th Anniversary" limited edition, will be powered by the familiar 1.8 litre DOHC engine which produces 106 kW at 6,500 rpm and 165 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Its performance will be further enhanced by the installation of Mazda’s recently developed 6 speed gearbox.

The model will also feature:

• Distinctive "Innocent Blue Mica" paint finish with 15" polished alloy wheels enabling the model to be instantly recognised.
• Blue soft top and tonneau cover to tone with the paintwork.
• Two tone black and blue trim color coordinating with the exterior. Blue suede-like material in the central part of seats, with the headrests and sides finished in black leather.
• NARDI leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob colored in black/blue. Blue is also applied to the shift lever boot and floor carpet.
• Carbon-fibre-like material incorporated in the center console pane
• Chrome-plated rings around the speedo and tacho, and stainless steel scuff plates.
• Balanced engine components including pistons, conrods and flywheel to optimise engine smoothness and responsiveness.
• Strut tower bar.
• Bilstein sports suspension.
• Special "10^th Anniversary symbol" ignition keys as well as an emblem on the front fender showing its unique serial number.
• A commemorative "owner certificate" signed by Mazda Motor Corporation President James Miller, as well as a "gift box" containing an inscribed wristwatch, miniature model of the model and key holder.

Mazda Australia Managing Director Malcolm Gough welcomed the model saying it was an entirely fitting way to commemorate the 10^th Anniversary of what had become the world’s most successful sports car.

"At a price of $45,250 it is bound to become a collector’s item and if demand for the recently released version is a guide we expect to be quickly ‘oversubscribed’ on this milestone model," he said.

"However, the numbers of 7500 internationally and 150 for Australia are absolute and will not be extended."

Mr Gough said Mazda Motor Corporation would randomly select the commemorative numbers for the entire series.

"The 150 vehicles for Australia will be allocated to the various Australia states and territories in line with population and sales patterns," he said.