Thread: Mazda MX-5 Superlight--minimum weight, maximum fun at Frankfurt auto show

The 2009 Frankfurt auto show likely will be remembered as the show of eye-catching, open-air statements from an array of carmakers. But one of the most extreme convertible concepts came from Mazda, which cracked the roof--and the windshield--completely off the iconic MX-5.

Called the Superlight version, this concept checks in at about 2,200 pounds and as the name would imply, it reduces weight at every turn. The goal was to build the lightest car possible while celebrating the 20th anniversary of the roadster. There are no plans for production, Mazda says.

There is no insulation, no interior trim, no air conditioning and no windshield. It's 2009, so there's still an iPod adapter, and rollover bars are installed to protect the passengers.

The inside gets bucket seats, with the ignition button in the center and two kill switches for fuel and electricity.

The Superlight makes extensive use of carbon fiber and aluminum. The car weighs about 317 pounds less than the heaviest production MX-5 with a manual transmission. The concept is fully driveable and is powered by a 1.8-liter motor paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. It gets a double-wishbone suspension in front and a multilink configuration in the back.

The car was pulled together in three months at Mazda's European R&D center.

reminds me of

So, it's a permanent convertible with no roof? I'm guessing it still has interior door panels... would love to see photos of the concept.

I've always liked these cars, particularly the lightweight, simple, early cars. Remind me of my MR2, just with the engine at the wrong end and no roof.