ORIGINAL STORY, 27/04/2020:
The Mazda MX-5 story doesn't exist without the special editions. From Monza to Monaco and from Phoenix to Arizona (yes, they were two separate models), Mazda's iconic roadster wouldn't be the same without the limited editions. Some are admittedly more interesting than most - the old Jota GT being perhaps the most notable in recent times - but, really, it's hard to think of the MX-5 any other way than with the odd spruce to the range here and there.
Now in its fourth decade on sale, the MX-5 has another: the R-Sport. Based on the 132hp, 1.5-litre Sport, the R-Sport adds Polymetal Grey paint, a grey hood, burgundy Nappa leather seats (with silver stitching), 16-inch Rays wheels and black mirror caps. Hardly transformative but, again, it's largely what's to be expected from the limited-edition MX-5.
Speaking of limited, there will be just 150 R-Sport 1.5s made, priced at £27,700 each - £1,600 more than a standard Sport. Mazda says the new model "continues our long heritage of offering uniquely styled yet affordable limited editions versions." They're not wrong there - this Classic is approaching 22 years old, yet was the special edition to celebrate the end of Mk1 production. Finally, and very interestingly, this mechanical package - the MX-5 facelift from 2018 - is already available for half the price of an R-Sport with a car like this. Say what you will about the MX-5, but buyers are never short of choice...
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