What is it?
2000½ Mazda Miata Special Edition
What's special about it?
It's been 11 years since Mazda introduced the sporty Miata roadster, and 2000 marks the eighth consecutive year that a Special Edition model as been offered. Like all 2000 Miatas, it touts a 1.8-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine putting out 140 horsepower, sitting on Mazda's Power Plant Frame with four-wheel, double-wishbone suspension. But that's pretty much where the similarities end. A host of Special Edition-only features make this version stand out: a six-speed manual transmission, Mahogany Mica paint, Parchment convertible top, leather-trimmed seats and interior appointments, Nardi wood-rimmed steering wheel, shift knob and handbrake lever, white-faced gauges, chrome interior door handles, stainless scuff plates and polished 15-inch alloy wheels. Add the optional fog lights, an aerodynamic appearance package (front air dam, side sills and rear mudguards), detachable hardtop and ABS, and you'll be the envy of everyone at the local cruise night. Be prepared to scoop up one of these beauties this spring (only 3,000 units will be produced), but don't expect them to last long. Previous Limited Edition Miata production runs have sold out in as little as 90 days. Pricing has yet to be announced, but it's likely you'll pay around $30,000 for a fully optioned copy of Mazda's latest pocket rocket.
Why should you care?
The Chicago Show has been Mazda's traditional venue for introducing special Miatas, and this year's offering shines stars above the already-hot Miata LS. Just like all of its predecessors, this midyear release is sure to be an instant collectable.
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