Mazda MX-5 generations
(Turning circle)| Generation year | Turning circle |
|---|---|
| MX-5, Model year 1990 (NA) | 9.8 m |
| MX-5, Model year 1998 (NB) | 9.7 m |
| MX-5, Model year 2000 (NB (1. Facelift)) | 9.7 m |
| MX-5, Model year 2005 (NC) | 10 m |
| MX-5, Model year 2009 (NC (1. Facelift)) | 10 m |
| MX-5, Model year 2012 (NC (2. Facelift)) | 10 m |
| MX-5, Model year 2015 (ND) | 10.4 m |
| MX-5, Model year 2023 (MX-5 ND (1. Facelift)) | 10.4 m |
Variants
Mazda MX-5 variants: MX-5 RF vs. MX-5 Roadster
(Turning circle)| Variant name | Turning circle |
|---|---|
| MX-5 RF | 10.4 m |
| MX-5 Roadster | 10.4 m |
The turning circle compared to other Mazda models
When situated within the Mazda lineup, the MX-5's turning circle tells a broader story of design priorities. For instance, compared to the Mazda 2's slightly smaller 10.20 meters, the MX-5 stands out for maintaining a tight radius despite its rear-wheel-drive layout—a testament to its sports car ethos. Meanwhile, it matches the turning circles of both the Mazda MX-5 RF and the Mazda MX-5 Roadster at 10.40 meters, underscoring the uniformity within Mazda's sports offerings. Contrast this with the larger Mazda CX-5 and Mazda 6, which navigate at 11.00 meters and 11.20 meters respectively, and the MX-5's agility within the lineup becomes abundantly clear.
Mazda MX-5 vs other current cars by Mazda
(Turning circle)| Variant name | Turning circle |
|---|---|
| 2 | 10.2 m |
| MX-5 RF | 10.4 m |
| MX-5 Roadster | 10.4 m |
| 2 Hybrid | 10.4 m |
| 3 | 10.6 m |
| 3 Fastback | 10.6 m |
| CX-30 | 10.6 m |
| 6 Kombi | 11 m |
| CX-5 | 11 m |
| 6 {sedan} | 11.2 m |
| MX-30 | 11.4 m |
| CX-60 | 11.7 m |
| CX-80 | 12.4 m |
How does the turning circle of the Mazda MX-5 compare to it's nearest competitors?
Against the backdrop of its closest competitors, the MX-5's turning circle positions it as a paragon of maneuverability. Take, for instance, the smart forfour's slightly superior 10.50 meters, and the Audi TT's equal 10.50-meter turn radius—both impressive, yet neither offers the same blend of open-top enjoyment and handling finesse for which the MX-5 is known. In contrast, wider circles like the Porsche Boxster's 11.10 meters and the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Klasse's 10.60 meters highlight the MX-5's advantage in tight spots, further cementing its status as a city-friendly sports vehicle that doesn't sacrifice the thrill of driving for practicality. The MX-5's consistent evolution and its comparison with both Mazda siblings and market rivals underscore its unique position: a sports car as at home on the racetrack as it is in the heart of the city.
Mazda MX-5 vs. similar cars
(Turning circle)| Car model | Turning circle |
|---|---|
| Suzuki Cappuccino 1994 | 8.8 m |
| Fiat 124 Spider 2016 | 9.4 m |
| Porsche 914 1969 | 10 m |
| Toyota MR2 2000 | 10 m |
| BMW Z3 2000 | 10.4 m |
| Mazda MX-5 2023 | 10.4 m |
| Fiat Barchetta 1995 | 10.5 m |
| Mercedes-Benz SLC 2016 | 10.5 m |
| Renault Wind 2010 | 10.6 m |
| Mercedes-Benz SLK-Klasse 2000 | 10.6 m |
| BMW 507 1956 | 10.7 m |
| Mercedes-Benz SL-Klasse 1998 | 10.7 m |
| Alfa Romeo Spider 1995 | 10.9 m |
| Porsche Boxster 2004 | 11.1 m |
| Ford Streetka 2002 | 11.1 m |
| Honda S2000 2004 | 11.3 m |
| Jaguar E-Type 1968 | 11.3 m |
| Opel Speedster 2000 | 11.6 m |
| Fiat 124 1973 | 11.7 m |
