THE iconic Mazda MX-5 has set a new record with total production of the super sports car passing the 900,000 mark.
This milestone has been achieved 21 years and 10 months after mass production of the first-generation MX-5 commenced in April, 1989.
In Britain, the Mazda MX-5 has enjoyed 20 years of incredible popularity, with UK consumers accounting for over 10 per cent of global sales and 40 per cent of European sales, while receiving a host of “best sports car'” awards from motoring and consumer media.
Today, the Mazda MX-5 continues to be the most popular roadster in the UK. The regular 10-strong range for 2011 is priced from £17,975 to £23,205.
Currently, the range is boosted by two special edition versions called the MX-5 Miyako. The 1.8i Miyako soft-top costs £18,769 and the more powerful 2.0i Miyako roadster coupe has a £21,321 price tag.
Back in 2000, the Mazda MX-5 was initially certified by Guinness Word Records as the world's "Best selling two-seater sports car" when production reached 531,890 units.
Since then, Guinness updated the record when production passed 700,000 and 800,000 units, respectively. Currently Mazda is reapplying to have the record updated to acknowledge production of the 900,000th vehicle.
Since Mazda launched the original MX-5, it has undergone two complete product redesigns and a series of upgrades. I