ALMOST every year
since 1991, Mazda has
introduced a unique,
limited production
version of the Miata
sports car.

It's designed to whet the
appetites of those who want a
Miata that’s a little different, a
. tad more exclusive and a little

. More expensive than the stan-
dard model. Most of these
limited production versions
have been called “Special
§- Edition” models, but some
- have been called “Limited
Edition” or “M Edition”, and
some have had no particular
moniker, just a limited produc-
tion run.

Common waits of special
edition models over the years
included a unique exterior
colour, a standard leather inte-

rior, a full load of options, and
sometimes, 2 unique convert:
ible top colour and special tires
_ and wheels.
Special edition for 2000

For 2000, the Miata Special
Edition model (which is limit-

~-ed to 250 cars in Canada)
comes in a unique mahogany
mica exterior colour. Like the
10th Anniversary model, the
2000 Special Edition offers a
standard six-speed manual transmission while all other Miatas

- have a five-speed manual transmission as standard equipment.

A four-speed automatic transmission is available as an option
on all Miatas, but very few Miata buyers order this option.

In terms of features, the Miata Special Edition is essentially a
Miata with the optional leather package and Aero Sport package,
plus a few unique items such as the 6-speed transmission.

The leather package, which is normally a $4,100 option,
includes a tan-coluured soft-top and tan leather interior, leather-
wrapped Nardi steering wheel, cruise control, Bose AM/FM,
CD/cassette sound system with 4 speakers, foldable wind block-
er, 195/50R-15 inch tires, 15” alloy wheels, anti-lock brakes and
limited slip differential. Standard Miatas with the leather package
come in blue, green or black exterior colours only.

The. Aero Sport package ($1,800) includes body-culoured
front air dam, side skirts, and rear spoiler.

Over and above these features, the 2000 Miata Special

@ Edition substitutes a unique Mahogany Mica body colour and

adds a standard six-speed manual transmission, creme-coloured
round gauge faces with chromed rings, a wood-rimmed Nardi
steering wheel, a Nardi wood shift knob and handbrake handle,
woodgrain centre console, chrome door handles, stainless steel
scuff plates on the door panels, and polished alloy wheels.

A Miata with the optional leather package and Acro Sport
package retails for $33,045, while a Special Edition model is
priced at $34,790.

‘Though it’s well-equipped, there are some options vou can
add to the Special Edition, including air conditioning ($1 391), a
removable hardtop ($1,675), and automatic transmission
($1,075). (Note: in the US., air conditioning is standard on the
Special Edition). I recommend you get air and the hardtop —
the former is invaluable on excessively hot summer days and helps
when it comes time to re-sell the car; the fatter is practical and
stylish during the winter when the temperature goes below zero.

With a full load of options, the Miata Special Edition now
comes very close to $40,000. Hnim ...

ONLY 250 of these Mazda Miata Special Edition: models were imported into Canada this year. Special Edition models include a unique
Mahogany Mica exterior cofour, a standard six-speed manual transmission, polished alloy wheels, tan leather upholstery and tan con-
vertible top, creme-coloured instruments, Nardi wood steering wheel and shift knob and staintess steel scuff pilates. The asking price is
$34,790. Test drive the Miata Special Edition at Wolfe Mazda, 1595 Boundary Road.

Designed for drivers

Tean’t even begin to talk about the Miata Special Edition, or
any Miata, without mentioning how much fun itis to drive. This
car was designed for the fun of driving first, and as a transporta-
tion device second. Volumes have been written by owners and
experts on the merits of che Miata’s traditional tront engine /rear-
wheel-drive layout, 50/50 front to rear weight distribution, fully
independent wishbone suspension, four wheel disc brakes, and
quick, responsive steering.

Bur Jer me add a few things that aren’t normally mentioned.
The Miata’s superb handling is a result of its excellent balance,
bork longitudinal and lateral. With the engine and transmission
positioned longitudinally, rather than transversely as in mest front
wheel drive cars, forward dive and rear pitch are minimized when
braking and accelerating, as is lateral lean when cornering. For
the driver and passenger, there is a sensation of balance and con-

See Masda page 29

—————___---

Indulge in a little personal luxury.

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736-8890 -

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