(continued from above)
The Mazda MX-5 GT Concept has been inspired by Mazda's podium winning MX-5 GT
race program and its debut at Goodwood is to test customer reaction to a high
performance version of the iconic sportscar. Built by race specialists Jota
Sport, the MX-5 GT Concept produces 205 hp from a normally aspirated 2.0-liter
Mazda petrol engine which is mated to the car's standard manual gearbox.
Suspension has been uprated to improve handling and is adjustable for different
track conditions, aerodynamic assistance comes from a carbon front splitter, a
rear diffuser and boot spoiler. The exhaust note has been enhanced with a sports
exhaust system with a central tailpipe. Recaro seats enhance the driver
stability and the interior features a number of carbon enhancements that help
reduce weight. For customers who want to acquire the car for track use, it comes
equipped with road slicks and body-colored roll hoops behind the seats.
Joining the MX-5 GT Concept on the stand will be the Mazda Takeri sedan concept,
a close indication of the design direction of the future Mazda6, along with the
recently launched all-new Mazda CX-5 compact SUV, the first car to adopt Mazda's
revolutionary SKYACTIV technology which improves fuel economy and reduces CO2
emissions without compromising driving enjoyment.
Mazda has also entered the World's fastest and most powerful MX-5 in the
Goodwood hillclimb. Sponsored by SMH Fleet Solutions, Jota Aviation, Total
Lubricants and Mazda Financial Services, the Jota Sport Mazda MX-5 GT4 is
currently contesting the 2012 British GT Championship and took third in class at
Brands Hatch this weekend. Competing against Lotus, Aston Martin, Ginetta and
Ferrari racecars, the MX-5 GT boasts a top speed of 160 mph and a 0-60 time of
just three seconds, making this a very special MX-5.
Drivers for the Goodwood Festival of Speed are regular Mazda racers Mark
Ticehurst and Owen Mildenhall and kart racer Jade Paveley, who at just 19
years-old, is one of the youngest drivers at the festival.
"This year at the Goodwood Festival of Speed we have a number of significant
cars on the stand and contesting the hillclimb," said Jeremy Thomson, Managing
Director, Mazda UK. "The MX-5 has been our best known car for 22 years and with
the GT4 and GT Concept on show, we are demonstrating that this car can compete
with the more expensive race and performance cars but still remain true to its
roots of affordable motoring with a strong focus on the driving experience.
"The Mazda Takeri gives a clear guide as to how the next Mazda6 will look. It
will be the second car to use Mazda's new SKYACTIV technology following on from
the Mazda CX-5 which we launched in May. SKYACTIV technology reduces vehicle
weight, improves fuel consumption and reduces CO2, it takes our cars into the
realm of environmentally friendly emissions but with no compromise on the fun to
drive attributes that are typical of our brand.
"So come over and say hello during the weekend, we are also giving away a
limited number of Le Mans books to visitors to the stand each day - so visit
early."