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Mx5 Auto

The BP-4W engine remained at 1.8 L (110 cu in) but received several minor updates. The engine compression ratio was raised from 9.0:1 to 9.5:1 by adding slightly domed pistons; the intake cam was changed to a solid lifter design with a stronger cam; the intake runners in the head were straightened and the intake manifold was mounted higher up. Mazda's Variable Intake Control System was introduced, which effectively gave a long narrow intake manifold at low rpm for better swirl, changing to a short, free-flowing manifold at high rpm for maximum breathing. Power output of the new engine was quoted at 106 kW (142 bhp) with 116 lbf·ft (157 N·m) of torque.

The 1.6 L (98 cu in) B6 engine remained available in Europe and Japan.

The base-model 1.8 L (110 cu in) NB could reach 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.5 s and had a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).

In 1999, Mazda celebrated the 10th anniversary of the MX-5 with the 10th Anniversary Model, a limited edition featuring some until-then exclusive features, namely a six-speed transmission and Bilstein shock absorbers; performance figures were slightly different, with faster acceleration but lower top speed than the standard 1.8 L (110 cu in) NB.

Related : Mx5 Auto
Related : Mazda Mx5 Auto

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Mx5 Auto

In 1998, Mazda released the second-generation Mx-5, production code NB, for the 1999 model year. The NB featured a more powerful engine and external styling cues borrowed from the third generation Mazda RX-7 model. Prices in the United States, the main market for the MX-5, started at US$19,770 (US$26,300 in 2008 adjusted for inflation).

Although many parts of the interior and body were different, the most notable changes were the headlights: the first generation's retractable headlights no longer passed pedestrian safety tests and were replaced by fixed ones. The new car grew slightly in width compared to the earlier model; its dimensions were: length 3,945 mm (155.3 in), width 1,678 mm (66.1 in), height 1,228 mm (48.3 in) and wheelbase 2,265 mm (89.2 in). Without options, the NB weighed 1000|kg 2300 lb. The new generation was slightly more aerodynamic than the original, with a Cd figure of 0.36.

The NB continued to employ four-wheel independent suspension, with enlarged anti-roll bars at the front and rear, but the wheels, tires and brakes were significantly upgraded: anti-lock braking system was offered as an option; alloy wheels were now 14 in (360 mm) or 15 in (380 mm) in diameter and 6 in (150 mm) in width, depending on the trim package; sports models were equipped with the larger wheels and 195/50VR15 tires.

Related : Mx5 Auto
Related : Mazda Mx5 Auto