by Unexpected Demand for the Special Edition
Mazda might be wondering if it was the right decision to limit production of the new special edition Miata. When the company opened applications for the sporty MX-5 Spirit Racing Roadster 12R earlier this year, it planned to release only 200 units. This seemed quite exclusive until over 9,500 people registered for a chance to purchase it.
New High-Performance Division
Such an extraordinary response wasn’t a complete surprise. It is the debut model from Mazda Spirit Racing, the brand’s new division dedicated to high-performance cars, taking the place of the former MazdaSpeed. Its MX-5 version is sold only in Japan and was first announced back in 2024, generating significant interest among enthusiasts.
Selection Process and Future Plans
Applications opened on October 5th and closed on October 20th. Mazda likely did not anticipate such a wave of interest but still faced the difficult task of selecting just 200 buyers by October 23rd. According to local reports, the company subsequently acknowledged that the level of enthusiasm might prompt the creation of a second model in the same spirit.
Technical Updates of the Models
Two different versions of the MX-5 Spirit Racing were released: the base model and the more focused 12R. Both share the same 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, but there is a key difference in power. The standard model has 184 hp, while the 12R receives a boost to 200 hp thanks to a new intake port, a redesigned exhaust manifold, and updated camshafts. This makes it one of the most powerful factory Miatas ever.
The only transmission offered for both models is a six-speed manual gearbox, driving the rear wheels. Both are equipped with specially tuned Bilstein dampers, promising to further improve handling.
Exterior and Interior
The 12R’s exterior stands out with Aero Gray paint and dark gray accents on aerodynamic elements, including the front spoiler, side sills, and rear wing. It also receives special decals.
The two models also differ in the interior. Each Roadster 12R features alcantara-upholstered bucket seats with four-point safety harnesses, while the standard version makes do with semi-bucket seats.
Pricing and Exclusivity
The prices reflect the difference in exclusivity. The standard MX-5 Spirit Racing starts from 5,265,700 yen (approximately $34,400) and will be limited to 2200 units. The rarer Roadster 12R, limited to just 200 cars for the Japanese market, starts from 7,612,000 yen (approximately $49,700). For the few selected, this brings them closer to owning a factory-built race car crafted with Mazda’s precision.
The popularity of these special editions underscores the enduring global interest in the MX-5 as a sports car icon, even if they remain unavailable outside Japan. Such demand could influence Mazda’s future decisions regarding expanding the high-performance model offerings to other markets, considering the potential for further brand growth.
