The MazdaSpeed Miata should boost sales of the sporty convertible, which are currently not as strong as they were in the heat of the early '90s, despite continual improvements in materials and interior fit and finish. Whether its sagging sales are a sign of softness in the roadster vertical overall or specific to the Miata is hard to tell.

MazdaSpeed tuned Miatas were first made famous in a sports car racing series of the same name that continues today. Shown on Speed Channel, highly tuned Miatas wind their way through legendary road courses such as Lime Rock, Buttonwillow and Road America. (Photo: SCCAProRacing.com)

While many of the MazdaSpeed Miata's customers will undoubtedly come from current Miata owners, many of who will jump at the opportunity to upgrade to the faster roadster, the new performance package also offers an alternative to the much pricier Honda S2000. Its aggressive styling will also be more appealing to men in general.

And what about getting the word out? Import enthusiasts have been waiting for a MazdaSpeed Miata since word came out about the Protegé version, so it's not likely advertising will make much of a difference here. As for those, like me, who've been watching MazdaSpeed tuned Miatas circle the winding road courses of Lime Rock, Buttonwillow and Road America while switched onto Speed Channel over the years, the advent of the super-tuned roadster was also just a matter of time. In other words, it sell out just on word of mouth alone.

Specifications:

• Price Range (estimated MSRP): $34,000 - $39,000
• Body Type: 2-door convertible
• Layout: front engine, RWD
• Engine: 178 hp, 166 lb-ft torque, 1.8-L, 16-valve, DOHC turbocharged I-4
• Transmission: 6-spd manual
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Cargo Cap: 144 L (5.1 cu ft)
• Curb Weight (estimated): 1,066 kg (2,350 lb)
• Fuel Economy (estimated city/hwy): 10.2 / 7.7 L/100km
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/80,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: BMW Z3, Chevrolet Corvette, Honda S2000, Mercedes-Benz SLK, Porsche Boxster, Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible 1.8T
• Web Site: www.mazda.ca or http://www.sccaproracing.com/miata/