But who cares about backing up when going forward is so much fun? But I've talked enough about the car's racy engine. In case you were wondering what else sets the MazdaSpeed Miata apart from its lesser siblings, I'll tell you. Internally, features reclining front bucket seats, a leather-wrapped shift knob with red stitching, leather-wrapped parking brake with red stitching, alloy foot pedals and a driver's alloy foot rest with the MazdaSpeed logo. Also included is a body-colored rearview mirror cap with the MazdaSpeed logo, plus stainless steel scuff plates with, you guessed it, the MazdaSpeed logo. You shouldn't find it too difficult to remember what car you're driving.
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| A number of stylish touches, such as a leather-wrapped shift knob with red stitching, leather-wrapped parking brake with red stitching, and alloy foot pedals, set the MazdaSpeed version apart. (Photo: Mazda Canada) |
Externally, it has, as I mentioned earlier, a lowered, sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch, 5-spoke Racing Hart alloy wheels (the same brand of rims used on the MazdaSpeed Protegé), a great set of Toyo Proxes R28 205/40R17 80 W rated tires, 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS, a front under spoiler, rear decklid spoiler, smoke finish headlamps, and halogen fog lights. Not too shabby for an entry-level convertible under $35,000.
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| Even when the top was down on the highway, the Speed's sound system rocks. (Photo: Mazda Canada) |
Now that I mentioned the price, I should say a few words about standard features. Its 6-speaker Bose audio system boasts 225-watts and an AM/FM interface with a 6-disc, in-dash CD-changer. Also, separate tweeters and speed-sensing automatic volume control are part of the package. I know I am beating the dead horse when I say this, but I still can't believe that the VW Beetle Convertible did not come with even a standard single CD player at its $37,000 price tag. Moving on, the Speed's sound system rocks. Even when the top was down on the highway, the tunes blaring from the system were not distorted by the higher volume, and the sound emitted was clear and concise. I couldn't ask for more from a stock system.
