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For Mazda Miata fans...a new RF version is available.
https://www.mazda.ca/en/vehicles/2017-mx-5-rf/overview/
(Disclaimer: This is NOT my video)
For those of you who love the always-fun-to-drive (except in snow) Mazda Miata (though entry/exit and ergonomics can be a little difficult for persons my size), a new RF (Retractable Fastback) version is now available. Unfortunately, it seems only available on the Mazda version, and not on the Miata's Fiat 124 Spyder clone (the Spyder, IMO, overall, is better-looking than the Miata, and would benefit even more from that styling).
The RF differs sharply from the Miata's power-retractable hardtop option in that it has a rigidly-attached overhead structure (which should help the rigidity of the body structure as compared to the convertible), with swept B-pillars that imitate a classic semi-tunnel-effect fastback....somewhat similar to the late-60s Dodge Chargers, for those of you who remember them. The center of the roof folds back, with a power mechanism, and disappears, while the side-fairings pop back up in place, creating a semi-convertible Targa effect. Interesting design......but, as I see it, but, unless one has limited use of his or her arms and hands (such as with arthritis) or parks in high-crime areas where it is easy to slash the soft-top open with a knife, I think the original soft-top version, with its manual, ingeniously-simple-to-operate roof mechanism, still makes the most sense for a typical buyer.
I'm going back to the D.C. Auto Show Friday for probably my last day there this year (the Mazda display is among those I have not seen yet), and I hope to see one in person. The Mazda reps will probably have some updates on its availability.
And, as Always.......Happy Car Shopping.
MM
https://www.mazda.ca/en/vehicles/2017-mx-5-rf/overview/
(Disclaimer: This is NOT my video)
For those of you who love the always-fun-to-drive (except in snow) Mazda Miata (though entry/exit and ergonomics can be a little difficult for persons my size), a new RF (Retractable Fastback) version is now available. Unfortunately, it seems only available on the Mazda version, and not on the Miata's Fiat 124 Spyder clone (the Spyder, IMO, overall, is better-looking than the Miata, and would benefit even more from that styling).
The RF differs sharply from the Miata's power-retractable hardtop option in that it has a rigidly-attached overhead structure (which should help the rigidity of the body structure as compared to the convertible), with swept B-pillars that imitate a classic semi-tunnel-effect fastback....somewhat similar to the late-60s Dodge Chargers, for those of you who remember them. The center of the roof folds back, with a power mechanism, and disappears, while the side-fairings pop back up in place, creating a semi-convertible Targa effect. Interesting design......but, as I see it, but, unless one has limited use of his or her arms and hands (such as with arthritis) or parks in high-crime areas where it is easy to slash the soft-top open with a knife, I think the original soft-top version, with its manual, ingeniously-simple-to-operate roof mechanism, still makes the most sense for a typical buyer.
I'm going back to the D.C. Auto Show Friday for probably my last day there this year (the Mazda display is among those I have not seen yet), and I hope to see one in person. The Mazda reps will probably have some updates on its availability.
And, as Always.......Happy Car Shopping.
MM