I don't see what's in it for Mazda.
http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/23/m...next-gen-mx-5/
The next-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata will have a sibling, but it won't be a Mazda, it will be an Alfa Romeo. The Japanese automaker has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Alfa parent Fiat to co-develop a roadster based on the MX-5 platform that is expected to see production in Mazda's Hiroshima factory, with the Alfa version coming in 2015.
I don't see what's in it for Mazda.
This:The link-up is excellent news for Mazda, the small, independent company searching for just these kinds of "technology and product development alliances" to help rescue it from years of losses, and supporting CEO Takashi Yamanouchi's assertion that it's "partner or die."
It will take them some time to redesign the front of the MX5 to put an Alfa Nose on top of the happy smile grill.
See what Alfa's front grill looks like.
http://www.alfaromeo.com/com/#/home
I thought the ND is almost ready to go!? With several roadsters from the competitions coming soon, Mazda better not be the last one to show up for the party! Partnering with Alfa will just cannibalize MX5 sales in Europe!
Gabriel
1.2 billion divided by 701 employees is a little more than 1,711,840 per employee. Seems like a new CEO and CFO are in order to me if they think layoffs are the answer. They need new marketing, design, and customer service.
And if they partner with Fiat they will not only get none of that but they will lose quality control too.
I think its a good thing. A partnership with Alfa will help maintain demand for the Miata-platform. The alfa will use one of the Fiat-family engines, so that provides a reason for Mazda to offer a better motor.
From what I've seen of the Abarth and other 500's, Fiat is making decent stuff these days.
I think the benefit for Mazda is remaining a relevant player in all markets, and some development $$ from Fiat on this project. That might free-up some $$ for rotary and RX-? development.
Polished Turd Racing
Mick wrote: "I think Jerrett is the best autocrosser I have ever seen naked."
Alfa is a tiny niche. Fiat is crap. The euro is on the brink. And fuel efficient rotary is a pipe dream.
Sunshine and lollipops!
Polished Turd Racing
Mick wrote: "I think Jerrett is the best autocrosser I have ever seen naked."
But an Alpha Romeo version would be a lot less of a Girly car!
Just so long as the shifter is on the transmission tunnel, not sticking straight out of the dash.
http://assets.hemmings.com/uimage/10...00-0.jpg?rev=1
Well, that's certainly better than this
:alfa-miata.jpg
I'd drive it with different wheels.
09 Lexus RX350
.... no Miata
http://www.cartalk.com/content/miata...ing-alfa-romeo
An other take on the same topic, but with a picture.
Check out the video at the bottom for proper hand position on the wheel while driving.
'99 Emerald Green - 2015 NASA Texas TTE Season Champion (showing up is really 100% of it)
Here's some more artist renderings.
http://www.roadandtrack.com/future-c...a-romeo-spyder
But when you read the article it doesn't look like the Alfa and Miata share anything other than the paint color.