Description
MX-5 10th Anniversary Model (1999)
In 1999, Mazda celebrated the 10th anniversary of the MX-5 with the 10th Anniversary Model, a limited edition featuring some until-then exclusive features, namely a 6-speed manual transmission and Bilstein shock absorbers; 15 inch polished aluminium wheels with 195/ 50R15 tires and a very desirable Torsen limited-slip differential. Performance figures were slightly different, with quicker acceleration and higher top speed than the standard 5-speed model. The model's nickname among owners and enthusiasts was 10AM or 10AE (as in "10th Anniversary Edition"). The car had a unique sapphire blue mica (called innocent blue in Japan) paint colour with two-toned black leather and blue Alcantara seats and floor mats, matching 3-spoke Nardi leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, BOSE audio system, bright gauge rings, carbon grained centre console panel and stainless steel scuff plates. The addition of the sixth gear resulted in different performance results, with 0–100 km/ h (62 mph) in 7. 6 seconds, 0. 3 seconds faster than the standard 5-speed model, according to Car and Driver, and 0. 4 seconds faster according to Motor Trend. However, in spite of the 10AM's greater weight, its top rated speed increased from 210 to 214 km/ h (130 to 133 mph). Combined fuel consumption improved from 8. 5 to 8. 0 L/ 100 km (33 to 35 mpg?imp; 28 to 29 mpg?US).
Each car was sequentially numbered on a badge on the driver-side front quarter panel. A "Certificate of Authenticity" with the same number came with each car, signed by Mazda President James E. Miller and dated 10 February 1999. On certain markets, a gift set was also included, consisting of a 1:43 scale diecast model, two Seiko-branded wristwatches (his and hers) with matching blue faceplate and Miata logo, and metal keychain in the form of the Miata logo, all encased in a luxury blue velvet box.
Despite the publicity that Mazda gave to this model, it took more than a year to sell all units, drawing criticism that too many units had been produced (another factor was the high price with an MSRP of $26, 875, about $6500 more than a base model). 7, 500 units of the 10th Anniversary were produced, with 3, 700 distributed to Europe (of which: 600 – UK, 20 – Portugal), 3, 150 to North America (of which 3, 000 to US and 150 to Canada), 500 to Japan and 150 to Australia, with car number 7, 500 being sold in the UK.
Of particular interest for the US models is that they came with Air Conditioning. Random units were equipped with ABS. Approximately 100 units came equipped with the Hard Top option. To set the U. S and Canadian models apart visually, US models were equipped with the Front Dam and Fog lights. Canadian models came equipped with a rear spoiler. For example US #3143 was 50 State emission legal (met California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission requirements), where 49 State emission requirements met Federal (FED) requirements. This unit also was equipped with ABS. Most units in California sold at a "Premium". Depending what option(s) it had, i. e., CARB or FED, ABS and/ or Hard Top, premiums of $3, 500 to $5, 000 were added on. Unit # 3143 had an added premium of $3675, making the selling price $30, 550. Vehicle sold in June 1999 for $28, 950 without a "Certificate of Authenticity". Beginning in (approximately) 2015, the correct size tire size, 195/ 50R15, became difficult to find in Northern California.
For comparison, there were 3, 500 units of the NC's 3rd Generation Limited launch model in 2005, and regular limited editions produced each year do not usually exceed 1, 500 units per region. The polished aluminium wheels are notorious for corroding once the thin lacquer coating is damaged. Mazda replaced thousands of sets under warranty. There were minor differences in specification according to the market, such as no sports appearance package (front/ side/ back skirts, rear wing) or air conditioning for Europe.
