Generation 1 in Open Sky: meet the original Mazda MX-5

A compact roadster, two seats and an open roof. In the Open Sky garage, you will find it under JDM Roadsters as Generation 1. Its full catalogue title is JDM Roadsters Generation 1. The real-world inspiration is the first-generation Mazda MX-5, known as the NA.

Where did this roadster begin?

The original MX-5 debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February 1989. Production began in April, followed by US sales in May of the same year. Mazda wanted to bring back a lightweight sports car whose character could be enjoyed on an ordinary drive. Source: Mazda archive.

A central idea was Jinba Ittai, the unity of horse and rider, which Mazda uses to describe the connection between driver and car. For the MX-5, that vision helped shape the choice of an open body and rear-wheel drive. Source: MX-5 development history.

Four details about the first MX-5

• The drivetrain layout was not predetermined. Front-wheel drive and a mid-engine layout were also considered before the team chose a front engine and rear-wheel drive. Mazda.
• Keeping weight down mattered more than adding equipment. An aluminium bonnet was one engineering choice used to lower the centre of gravity. Mazda.
• Different names describe the same model family. It is known as MX-5 in Europe, Miata in North America and Roadster in Japan. Mazda.
• 1989 marks the launch, not simply a model-year label. Mazda records a February debut, an April production start and the beginning of US sales in May. Mazda.

Generation 1 in Open Sky

The model has a compact profile, a long bonnet, two seats and a short rear section. Its roof is folded in the artwork shown here. The garage title identifies its group and generation, while the car’s historical name provides the background for its design.

Finding it in the garage

In the upcoming version of Open Sky, open Garage, find JDM Roadsters, and choose the Generation 1 tile. It is the first car in that group in the screenshot below. The red selection marker belongs to another car: this image shows the available models, not Generation 1 selected.

Open Sky combines weather information for roof-down driving with a choice of vehicle and scenery. A forecast can help you plan a drive; check current conditions before setting off, too.

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Open Sky is currently presented as an app preparing for its App Store release. These materials come from the prerelease project. Manufacturer and model names provide historical context and do not imply a partnership or endorsement.