One of the most intriguing concept models of this year’s edition of the SEMA automotive aftermarket extravaganza, which takes place in Las Vegas from November 1 to 4, is the Mazda MX-5 Spyder.
Based on the soft-top MX-5, the two-seater roadster model has been tastefully modded with a mix of bespoke accessories and body parts such as the ground effects kit and the redesigned front bumper that sports a new grille and air vents.
The lowered suspension and the new 17-inch, 10-spoke ADVAN RS wheels in Gun Metal Metallic shod in beefy Yokohama AO48 225/45R17 performance tires give the MX-5 Spyder an even more aggressive stance.
The car’s low-slung looks are further accentuated by a simple, single-panel grenadine-red soft-top that was designed by Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) and Magna Car Top Systems, and made by Haartz Corporation. The lightweight top is fitted on the windshield with two locks at the back holding it on the trunk.
Under the hood, the MX-5’s standard 2.0-liter engine has been modified to run on BP’s isobutanol, a biofuel that is also used by the Mazda/Dyson Racing entry in the American Le Mans Series.
“Although similar to how ethanol is produced from agricultural feedstock, isobutanol does not compromise vehicle performance for the sake of fuel economy and can be added to the current fuel distribution infrastructure without requiring modifications in blending facilities, storage tanks and retail station pumps,” says Mazda.
Other mechanical changes on the MX-5 Spyder include a Racing Beat header, intake and exhaust muffler, a MAZDASPEED coil over kit, Brembo brakes and a lightweight lithium-ion racing battery made by Braille Battery.
As for the interior, Mazda’s designers fitted the Spyder with tanned Saddle black-leather seats with Aqua leather accents and Coal Ash suede inserts, with the same material being used on the door panels. The Silk Gray Metallic-colored trim pieces on the doors and dash panels along with the MAZDASPEED short-throw shifter complete the mods.
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