MX-5 Mazdaspeed

The Mazdaspeed MX-5 Miata (MSM), produced for 2004 and 2005 model years, represents Mazda factory turbocharged NB-generation Miata featuring an IHI RHF5 VJ35 turbocharger with ball-bearing center section providing 8.5 psi of boost through a front-mounted air-to-air intercooler. The turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder produces 178 hp at 6,000 rpm and 166 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, representing 25% and 33% increases in power and torque respectively over the naturally aspirated 2004 Miata (142 hp baseline). To accommodate the forced induction, engineers lowered compression ratio from 10.0:1 to 9.5:1 with modified pistons while maintaining the engine fundamental reliability.

Performance improvements included 0-60 mph acceleration in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 127 mph (limited by reaching the 6,500 rpm rev limiter). The Mazdaspeed package featured exclusive Bilstein dampers, shorter and stiffer springs from the optional Sport suspension, 17-inch Racing Hart wheels with wider tires achieving over 0.98g lateral grip, a 7mm lowered ride height, the standard six-speed manual transmission, and a limited-slip differential. Produced as a limited-run factory performance variant, the Mazdaspeed MX-5 offered enthusiasts genuine turbocharged power in the lightweight Miata platform, establishing itself as one of the most desirable NB Miatas for both street driving and motorsport applications.