Watch the original Mazda Miata race the new MX-5
Screenshot via YouTube
Mazda rolled out a new MX-5, known more colloquially as the "Miata," in 2015.
A quarter-century after its introduction, the frisky little drop-top has been steadily improved. It's gotten bigger and faster. But how much faster?
Mazda decided to find out, pitting a first-generation MX-5 against the latest model and filming the excitement.
A pair of endurance racers were recruited: Jade Paveley to pilot the 1990 Miata; and Owen Mildenhall to helm the new MX-5.
The earliest Miata managed only 116 horsepower. With a larger engine, the new MX-5 cranks out 155. At a race track in Spain, Mazda's thinking was that such a power differential translates into 4 seconds, so that's how much of a head start Paveley got.
Would she be able to hold her lead?
Jade Paveley gets the older, slower Miata — but a 4-second head start. Will she be able to drive the little roadster well enough to maintain her lead?
Screenshot via YouTubeOwen Mildenhall got behind the wheel of the much-improved MX-5. But will better handling, better suspension, and more horsepower be enough? Driving skill can still win races, and Paveley has a head start!
Screenshot via YouTubeGreen flag means go!
Screenshot via YouTubeSee the rest of the story at Business Insider