Article Views:
77
Ezine ready page
Ezine ready page
Posted on March 7, 2008 by Anthony Fontanelle | Posted under Automotive
Mazda MX-5 PRHT Reviewed
|
Recently, the latest package of the Mazda MX-5 came under the inspection of The Auto Channel's Annabelle Frankl. The MX-5 PRHT or the Power Retractable Hard Top according to Frankl is now on its third generation. The appearance of the said vehicle depends on the position of the hard top reviewed Frankl. "With the top up, the PRHT gives the car a slightly bulbous look, but top down, the MX-5 retains its clean long-nose, compact-rear profile," writes Frankl. The MX-5 has many positive characteristics which has made it a favorite among consumers. According to Frankl, the hard top can be easily stowed away with just a push of a button. Moreover, unlike other convertibles which stows their hard top on the luggage trunk, the MX-5 does not. "Simply unlatch the header, keep your finger on the button and see the sky appear in just 12 seconds. The top stows in a compartment behind the seats, but doesn't interfere with the trunk, so the MX-5 remains one of the more useful drop-tops of it's kind, offering 5.3 cu ft of space, plenty of room for a couple of overnight bags," said Frankl. As for power, the Mazda MX-5 has enough according to Frankl. "Mazda's 2.0-liter inline 4 with VVT kicks out 166 horsepower and 140 ft-lbs of torque and, matched to a short-throw 6-speed tranny, offers plenty of power throughout the rev range. The car is wonderfully nimble and happy to pull away, even at sub-3000 revs, in most gears," observed Frankl. Frankl also praised the MX-5 for the absence of high-tech features which performance enthusiasts are saying reduces the fun in driving. "With so many super-computer-laden cars around, the MX-5 is a great reminder of how much fun it is to drive without all the high-tech stuff interfering. That said, ABS, dynamic stability control and traction control are on hand if one gets a bit too enthusiastic,' added Frankl. As far as suspension is concerned, the extra weight of the retractable hard top is no problem according to Frankl. "The car's suspension's been beefed up to accompany the arrival of the PRHT but also utilizes lightweight aluminum to keep off any unnecessary poundage and reduce unsprung weight. Rear suspension bits are borrowed from the RX-8. The engine sits almost entirely behind the front axle, giving the car excellent mass centralization and, combined with a rigid unibody structure and wide track, the MX-5 is very neutral on the road, with great balance and a confidence-inspiring (and heavy, right-foot-inducing) drive." With the MX-5 equipped with auto parts as reliable as Saab spare parts, it has become a real favorite among car buyers. About The Author: For more information about your parts needs like Saab spare parts visit your trusted online source. Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop. |
Tags: SAAB SPARE PARTS, SAAB, SPARE PARTS, MAZDA PARTS, AUTO PARTS
