Mazda MX-5 boasts with its miniature size and weight and we will take a look at the concept – Mazda Ibuki. Mazda Ibuki concept appeared for the first time at the 2004 Chicago auto show. The concept was even smaller than the production vehicle.
This concept served as an inspiration to the third-generation MX-5 which was launched 11 years ago. However, the size and the weight of this third-generation vehicle did not resemble the size and the weight of the concept at all. So, they had to fix that in the next generation of MX-5.
The fourth-generation ND MX-5 is a foot longer, wider and a bit higher than the Ibuki concept. Although the concept car was tiny it used 18-inch alloy wheels. For the record, the wheels are larger than the ones on the current model by one inch.
As you can see in the pictures the shape was simple without any aggressive lines. There is no doubt that the ongoing version is more attractive than the concept, but you need to admit that the concept looks great, too.
The simplicity may be the word that describes this car the best. Seats blend into the rear bulkhead, whereas the air-conditioning system was located in the rear end for weight distribution. Furthermore, the company used plastic body panels in order to reduce weight as much as possible.
The engine was a 1.6-liter V4 and it was located in the front. It was equipped with the manual transmission together with a motor/generator used to start, stop and assist the engine. This motor indicated company’s interest in hybrid drivetrains.
Also read: 2017 Mazda CX-3
It would be great to see Mazda use some parts from the Ibuki for their next production car.
