If there is any manufacturer that’s built on balance and control, it’s Mazda and their long standing stance with the Miata roadster. Their recent video flexes their muscle, as a Mazda MX5 balance is put to the test in this incredible highlight showing the roadster seesawing on a single metal fulcrum.
Mazda released a video going behind the recreation of the traditional Miata balance-beam act, this time using the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata. The balance beam stunt was initially conceived for an advertisement for the previous-generation Mazda Miata in 2011.
Balance has been the centerpiece of the Miata and it’s main characteristics throughout it’s 25 year run. We highlighted the 25 year anniversary at last year’s SEMA show where Mazda had their first MX5 road race car proudly on display next to their new gen Mazda MX5 with SkyActiv technology.
The Mazda MX5 balance provides superior handling characteristics and an incredibly predictable result in and out of corners. This balance video showcases the very best of balance that Mazda has to show, and is an amazing display of engineering.
Watch former Sport Compact Car editor Dave Coleman run down the technology and the fundamental basics behind Mazda’s balance.
The goal is to center the Miata to the point where the balance beam is perfectly stationary and balanced, without any additional structural support. The USDM Mazda MX5 Miata weighs in at 2,332 pounds dry and it’s powered by the 155 horsepower 4 cylinder.
The new MX-5 definitely isn’t your dad’s Miata, leaving behind the rounded bulbs in favor of the newer more aggressive design. As the best selling roadster of all time, the new 2016 Mazda MX5 is looking to defend it’s title against the likes of the BMW Z4 and other rear-wheel drive lightweight coupes.
One of the newer changes for this upcoming model year is of course the six speed transmission, which also features a paddle shifting technology. It’s only a matter of time before people begin to take advantage of the incredible curb weight and balance found out of the box in one of the most legendary roadsters of all time.
Need more Mazda news and SEMA coverage? follow along with Pro Street as we take you through all the latest and greatest at the 2015 SEMA auto show this year.
