Back Once Again For The Renegade Mazda

The MX-5 12R is a JDM special and the most powerful version of Mazda’s roadster to date.

Back in 1989, Mazda bestowed a gift upon the world, one that would go on to become the best-selling roadster of all time and one of the most raced cars in the world. Depending on where you are in the world, that gift came with one of three names, Miata, Eunos Roadster, or MX-5, and not long after it launched came a flurry of special editions, featuring a wide range of colours and trim packages, some with comfort in mind and some focused on a more hardcore sports experience.

None of these moreso than the RS-LTD. This JDM-only Eunos Roadster saw the addition of a more powerful 1.8-litre engine with a lightened flywheel, Torsen LSD, additional chassis bracing and Recaro bucket seats. Also, production was limited to a run of just 500 units. These details formed the basis of what would be the go-to options for fans looking for that sharpened experience behind the wheel of an MX-5. 

When Mazda replaced the NA generation with the NB generation, once again came the special editions and the RS variant. Keeping most of the same formula but swapping the Recaro seats for a Bose sound system instead, this now became a regular production option and not a numbered special.

Following on with the third generation known as the NC, the 2-litre Sport variant now offered a more restrained version of what the RS had become known for, with heated leather seats but still the Bilstein suspension. Despite there being an NC Cup car, there were no truly hardcore offerings for the road, and this continued with the current ND. 

Despite being with us for a decade now, the current shape has seen some specials, but again, none offering that properly sporty experience. Well Mazda has decided to change that by unveiling the new MX-5 12R. A car that has looked back to the first RS-LTD and said, “I’m having some of that”.

Just like Grandad, the 12R features a bump in power, now putting out 200hp by way of a new head, crankshaft, pistons, manifold and a Fujitsubo exhaust. As is tradition, the suspension is provided courtesy of Bilstein and is adjustable; the brakes have come from Brembo, and the differential is, of course, a limited-slip unit.

Furthermore, the MX-5 12R is bestowed with some properly homegrown treats in the shape of some Recaro fixed back bucket seats with Sabelt four-point harnesses, not good enough yet? The 12R sits on the golden child of the aftermarket community, Rays Volk TE-37 wheels, Japanese perfection wrapped in Yokohama Advan AD09 tyres so it can head straight from the dealership to the track. The exterior isn’t left untreated, and it features an exclusive body kit and Aero Grey paintwork.

Now, you must be thinking, it’s time to crack open the Credit Union account and head down to Mazda. Well, not so fast. Production of the 12R will not only be limited to a tiny 200 units but will only be sold in Japan, so any hopes of strapping yourself into this one will have to wait until some second-hand units find their way overseas.