Hardware
The standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine in the Mazda Miata has been improved for 2009, the company says. The engine's redline has been bumped-up another 500 rpm through the use of a forged crankshaft, floating pistons, and newly designed valve springs. While the horsepower rating is up just one to 167 (peaking at slightly higher rpm) and torque remains the same at 140 lb.-ft (with 90 percent of it available from 2500 rpm to redline), the higher engine limit allows the driver to enjoy the full potential of the powerplant's performance. The exhaust system has been further refined to deliver an even sportier exhaust note. The available 6-speed manual transmission has also undergone improvements as the synchronizers in several gears have been carbon coated and their diameters increased. Both lend to smoother shifts at the engine's higher redline, the automaker states, and a higher 6th-gear ratio produces better fuel economy combined with lower rpm highway cruising.

For 2009, Mazda also tweaked the available traction and stability control system so that it's less intrusive during spirited driving. Furthermore, the front suspension was reconfigured with new pivots for the ball joints to reduce the height of the roll center. As a result, the car's response to steering inputs feels more natural and linear, Mazda says. The changes also are claimed to improve the Miata's ride. The Miata is available with 16-inch and 17-inch wheels. Both have been restyled for the new model year.

Notably, Mazda has added a new Induction Sound Enhancer (ISE) to Miatas equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. The ISE delivers natural induction sound to a location just ahead of the windshield, enhancing the MX-5's classic sports car sound at more comfortable volumes, the automaker says.

For more information:

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