The Mazda MX-5 Superlite

From car-maker giant Mazda comes the MX-5 derived concept known as the Mazda “Superlite”. In collaboration with the Cologne, Germany-based design studio Motorcity Europe, the automotive manufacture from Hiroshima, Japan came out with this “celebratory” racer. After all, they want to have something to show for their 20 successful and phenomenal years in the industry.

What do we know about the Mazda Superlite? Well, for starters, it is still based on the iconic MX-5, only sans roof and windshield. As the name implies, it is, indeed, super light, tipping the scale at roughly 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs), which is about 145 kg (317 lbs) lighter than the heaviest MX-5. This is mainly thanks to the preference for aluminum and carbon fiber in the body.

It’s not just light, it’s superlight.

With the desire to encourage “oneness between the vehicle and its driver”, the Superlite was designed to be fully driveable while going back to the basics: no frills, no trims. Well, there is no windshield, after all. Although it has no insulation and no air conditioning (you won’t need it with the top permanently down), it comes installed with rollover bars and four-point harnesses for the protection of the passengers. Functionality is still very much present, as evidenced by the bucket seats and the kill switches for electricity and fuel. Check out the tanned leather trimming. Ain’t it sweet?

The Interior of the Superlite

Powered by a 1.8-liter motor, you can take to the open road with ease and confidence, taking advantage of the five-speed manual gearbox. In barely 9 seconds, you can go from 0 to 62 mph.

The Mazda Superlite

Fuel economy is one advantage offered by this concept car. However, it is mostly appreciated for its reduced weight and the smooth way the suspension reacts to your steering when it comes to cornering.

Take to the road with The Mazda Superlite

The Mazda Superlite

This supercar was presented during the 2009 Frankfurt auto show. Unfortunately, Mazda has no plans for its mass production.