New class structure based on third-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata unveiled to club racing community

August 21, 2019 (IRVINE, Calif.) – Building upon the success of the Mazda Miata MX-5 in club racing throughout North America, Mazda Motorsports today unveiled Spec MX-5.

(Since announcing the Spec MX-5 program, Mazda Motorsports has released additional information intended specifically for the racers and race teams, found here.)

Designed as an affordable, reliable, tech-able and fun-to-drive option for club racers, Spec MX-5 will establish a nationwide ruleset and spec parts list for the 2006-2015 chassis Mazda Miata MX-5. While the car will be classified into NASA (ST5) and SCCA club racing, Mazda and Winding Road Racing are creating a spec series to compete at select, marquee events in 2020, culminating with what is expected to be the largest prize pool a club racing series will offer in 2020. Spec MX-5 has already been classified in other series including American Endurance Racing, ChampCar and the World Racing League.

Key features of Spec MX-5 include:

• A high level of performance by utilizing a spec cylinder head by Roush, adjustable Penske Racing shocks, ABS braking and a curb weight of 2500lbs.
• Cost and performance controls with numerous spec components including an ECU flash, Penske Racing shocks, Eibach springs and sway bars, Pagid brake pads, Toyo tires, and more.

A Spec MX-5 test vehicle built by Mazda Motorsports and driven by Andrew Carbonell and Tom Long began development in 2018, completed successful tests at Carolina Motorsports Park and VIRginia International Raceway last week.

“Mazda Motorsports has always strives to provide a high level of support and value for its club racers,” said David Cook, Manager, Mazda Motorsports Business Development. “Spec MX-5 provides an opportunity for us to put into place many of the lessons we have learned with our other successful classes, including Spec Miata, and provide a vehicle that has a different window of performance. Much like the first and second generation Mazda Miata, the third-generation Mazda Miata provides an excellent foundation for a club race car and we’ve sought to create a package that will fulfill the four pillars of affordable, reliable, tech-able and fun-to-drive.”

Mazda Motorsports and the companies providing support to Spec MX-5 have committed additional support in the form of reduced pricing for racers purchasing Spec MX-5 parts kits and enhanced contingency awards.

Additional information and pricing will be available at MazdaMotorsports.com.