GT86 - could it provide the incentive Mazda need...

[hornetrider]

...to up the power to 200bhp as standard?

http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/evocarreviews/2760...

I realise the talk on the forums for ND is Sky-G 1.6/1.8 and a lighter chassis providing similar performance - but the way the 86 has been received must surely be making Mazda think of giving the 5 a smidgeon more oomf.

[MX-5 Lazza]

I think that car is aiming at a different market i.e. it's a Coupe and it'll be more expensive than the MX5. I think the ND will go the other way i.e. smaller, lighter, cheaper so the new Sky 1.4 & 1.6 are more likely.

[craikeybaby]

I think they are aimed at the same market, I have an NC and will be replacing it with a GT86/BRZ. There aren't many other sub £25k RWD new cars that are fun to drive.

If Mazda give the ND a similar power to weight ratio, either by adding power or losing weight and keep the car naturally aspirated I'd consider it.

[MX-5 Lazza]

Some people might have an MX5 just because it's a cheapish RWD car that's fun to drive but I'm sure the vast majority just have one because it's a cute convertible sportscar. I'll bet at least 50% of new owners don't even know or care that it's RWD. That Toyota is neither cute nor convertible so it'll probably only appeal to maybe 10% of potential MX5 purchasers. Just look around a few threads where a coupe has been suggested as a replacement for an MX5 and see how many people have said that it's no good if the top doesn't go down!

In fact I'd suggest that crap like Peugeot 207CC is a closer rival than a GT86.

(all numbers have been totally made up in my head and are complete guesswork based on the type of people who I've met with MX5s).