Perhaps you're already a believer in the capability of the MX-5 platform. If not, the video after the jump should help. It shows a turbocharged first-generation Miata running at a pace similar to that of a Z06 Corvette. On the Nurburgring.
This guy's claim to fame is an 8-minute, 5--second Bridge-to-Ganrtry time. If you're not familiar, Bridge-to-Gantry timing is what's used on "tourist" days at the 'Ring, since on those days it's not possible to complete a lap without stopping to queue up at the gate. In other words, it's the most practical real-world measure of speed around the famous track. Check here and you'll see that this guy keeps some pretty good company.
Or just click through for the real fun.
We've been a little short on Miata posts lately, but fear not: We've got a comparison test, of sorts, on the way.
Josh Jacquot, Senior editor
ed341 says:
01:41 PM, 02/16/12
Clearly the ZR-1 would have been faster and is better looking than the Miata.
Be proud, buy American (unless it is built in Canada)
spaceywilly says:
02:44 PM, 02/16/12
That was a cool video, but... the Corvette driver was just playing with him. As soon as they start the second lap the Corvette driver clearly steps it up and disappears quickly... and that's where the video conveniently ends. Still, though, that Miata is really quick through those turns. Not a bad showing by either car.
jstandefer says:
04:56 PM, 02/16/12
"Clearly the ZR-1 would have been faster"
I hope so... A new base ZR-1 is almost five times the price of a new base Miata! Let alone a Miata that's almost 20 years old.
miamifan1 says:
06:00 PM, 02/16/12
well that miata and its driver are very impressive.
the vette, clearly, is not pushing wot in the high speed straights - content to not pass 135mph.
legacygt says:
06:01 PM, 02/16/12
@spaceywilly: +1 The Miata is truly impressive here but it's not capable of keeping pace with the Corette. There are parts of the course that might favor the Miata and parts that might favor the Vette but you notice that the Vette never really takes advantage of those times. There are a couple straightaways where you can actually hear it letting up on the throttle to stay with the Miata.
firstwagon says:
07:13 PM, 02/16/12
Corvette might be faster but I would still rather have the Miata.
brad10281 says:
05:32 AM, 02/17/12
If you guys read the description on YouTube it says: "KarlH followed my little Mazda around for a lap". The corvette was following the Mazda on purpose. Although, my favorite part was when that Porsche flew by in the beginning.
ed124c says:
08:35 AM, 02/17/12
Probably the most enthralling race car video I have ever watched. I really got drawn into it. Unfortunately, the ending was anticlimactic.
addicted2sp33d says:
08:49 AM, 02/17/12
The Corvette was a camera car. They obviously know each other in some way, and stuck together on purpose.
All this pedantic banter about whether they're really "racing", and you forget take a look at all the other machinery that they're passing on the lap. That Miata and its pilot are pretty damn fast.
Focus RS
E46 M3 (CSL Trunk?)
E46 M3
Opel Astra VXR
997 GT3
E36 3-Series (granted not as impressive)
Z33 350Z
WRX STi
ryecatcher says:
05:56 AM, 02/18/12
People forget that best way to add speed is to improve driver skill. Look at the driver of the Miata at 3:09, adding in a bit of opposite lock to keep it together and smooth on the turn...nice. Great run, fun to watch!
roadburner says:
09:41 AM, 02/18/12
"People forget that best way to add speed is to improve driver skill."
I had a student in an E46 325i with just a few minor mods; in her run group she passed an E36 M3, an E46 M3, and an E92 M3- not to mention a 993 and an Evo X.