The Mazda MX-5, an icon of driving pleasure, celebrates its 35th anniversary as a fun, unassuming sports car with a global fanbase. Since its debut, the MX-5 has embodied the essence of joy and exhilaration on the road, charming drivers with its personality and unmatched driving experience.
In honor of this milestone, Mazda Europe hosted a special event in the historic city of Zadar, Croatia, inviting media from across Europe to experience the 2024 Mazda MX-5. This celebration showcased how the latest model continues to uphold the MX-5’s sporty appeal while delivering safe and thrilling drives.
Journalists were treated to a scenic journey through Croatia’s breathtaking landscapes, including the serene rivers and lakes of Krka National Park. The route offered stunning views of Mount Velebit and winding coastal roads, where the MX-5’s agility shined as it effortlessly navigated the twists and turns. This drive highlighted the car’s ability to connect driver and machine, a sentiment echoed by a German journalist: “There is simply nothing like it. An affordable fun car that caresses the soul with every drive.”
The event also offered a nostalgic look at the MX-5’s history, from the classic first model with pop-up headlights to the 30th Anniversary Edition, known for its exclusive orange paint. However, the star of the show was the 2024 Mazda MX-5, which introduced a new Aero Grey body color and refined features that preserve the beloved character of the MX-5. As one French guest put it, “The Mazda MX-5 seems to have found the elixir of youth.”
The celebration in Croatia mirrored the experiences of MX-5 owners worldwide, who share a deep passion for this iconic vehicle. From South Africa’s Western Cape MX-5 club to the ‘Miata Owners of Vegas’ in Nevada, the MX-5 community is united by a love for driving. These communities offer more than just a space to share tips and stories; they provide a sense of belonging and connection that transcends borders.
In the UK, the MX-5 Owner’s Club (OC) is a prime example of this spirit. With over 7,000 members and 34 area clubs, it’s one of the largest MX-5 communities in the world. Members range in age and background, yet all share a common bond through their love for the MX-5. The club hosts meet-ups, drive-outs, and social events, from casual dinners to track days at Silverstone.
Members like Rhys Mainwaring and Adam Gill are passionate about the community the MX-5 fosters. Rhys, who regularly hosts meets in the West Midlands, believes the MX-5 is designed for pure driving enjoyment, a sentiment shared by every member. Adam, an area coordinator in North Thames, values the strong relationships and experiences the club has brought into his life.
Courtney Ward, a 19-year-old member, encapsulates the club’s welcoming spirit: “The people stay, the relationships stay, and so does the willingness to help each other. It holds the club together.” The MX-5 Owner’s Club is a place where all are welcome, regardless of background, gender, or driving experience, showcasing the true spirit of the MX-5.
As the Mazda MX-5 celebrates 35 years, it continues to bring joy and connection to drivers across the globe, proving that this beloved roadster is more than just a car—it’s a community, a lifestyle, and a symbol of pure driving pleasure.
Source: Mazda
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