Editing Mazda MX-5 (section)

==Overview==
The original MX-5 was launched at a time when small roadsters had almost disappeared from the market, with the [[Alfa Romeo Spider]] as one of the few comparable models still in production, though at a significantly higher price. That left the MX-5 as the spiritual successor to cars like the [[MG MGB|MG B]], [[Triumph TR7]], [[Triumph Spitfire]], and [[Fiat Spider]].

The MX-5 was introduced in February 1989 at the Chicago Auto Show.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Alexander Stoklosa|date=2019-02-08|title=A Quick History of Mazda's MX-5 Miata Sports Car, from 1989 to Now|url=https://www.caranddriver.com/features/g26111823/mazda-mx-5-miata-history|access-date=2021-12-22|website=Car and Driver|language=en-US}}</ref> The first generation MX-5 sold 228,961 units between 1989 and 1997.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hemmings.com/stories/2019/08/12/theres-no-time-like-the-present-to-buy-a-first-generation-mazda-miata|access-date=2021-12-22|website=www.hemmings.com |title=There's no time like the present to buy a first-generation Mazda Miata  |first1=Kurt |last1=Ernst}}</ref>

The lightweight, unibody MX-5 has responsive handling and a curb weight under {{cvt|2,500|lb|order=flip}}. Its longitudinal truss, marketed as the Powerplant Frame (PPF), provides a rigid connection between the engine and differential to minimize flex and improve balance. Some MX-5 models feature a [[limited slip differential|limited-slip differential]], traction control, and an [[anti-lock braking system]].

With an approximate 50:50 front/rear weight balance, the car has nearly neutral [[car handling|handling]]. Inducing [[oversteer]] is easy and controllable, making the MX-5 a popular choice for amateur and stock racing, autocross, and club racing.<ref name=NYT032715>{{cite news|first=Farhad |last=Manjoo|title=In Silicon Valley, Auto Racing Becomes a Favorite Hobby for Tech Elites|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/29/technology/in-silicon-valley-the-rise-of-high-speed-networking.html|access-date=March 27, 2015|work=The New York Times|date=March 27, 2015|quote=the most popular car for racing enthusiasts is a Mazda Miata, older models of which sell for less than $5,000.|url-access=subscription}}</ref>