Random Car Wednesday: 1995 Mazda Miata M Edition

Many people consider the Mazda Miata to be one of the best gearhead cars of all time. I'm not quite so enthusiastic, but I must admit it has plenty of admirable qualities. Thus, it's about time we have a Miata for RCW, and here it is. This is a 1995 Mazda Miata M Edition. Now, the Miata is essentially an homage to the classic sports cars of the 1960's. Cars like the Lotus Elan, Triumph TR6, and Austin-Healey Sprite. The formula is pretty simple, following Colin Chapman's "Simplify, then add lightness" mantra very strictly. As a '95 model, this Miata features a 1.8-liter engine that produces 131 horsepower. This is a far cry from last week's V12 Vantage, but the Miata didn't need a boatload of horsepower because it only weighed 2,180 pounds. The end result was a very nimble, sporty little two-seater that offered a wonderful combination of basic practicality and driving bliss. These credentials were enough to win the hearts of driving enthusiasts everywhere, and as a result these cars are coveted by their owners. This particular car is the M Edition, a low production special edition. M Editions could be had in 1994, 1995, and 1996, and each year featured a different look. For 1995, the M Edition was offered in Merlot Mica with unique BBS rims. These unique machines got all of the options Mazda could install, and production was limited to 3,500 cars. This one is in stellar condition, and looks like it would be a blast to drive through the Hill Country on a nice day like today. Is it the best car in the world? No, I don't think so. But you should try to drive one at least once, just to make sure.

1995 Mazda Miata M Edition