The Mazda Roadster, or MX-5 Miata as it’s known in many markets, has long been a symbol of pure driving pleasure. Since its debut in 1989, this lightweight two-seater has captivated enthusiasts worldwide, blending simplicity with engineering brilliance. With over 1.2 million units sold globally, it stands as the world’s best-selling two-seater convertible. As the Roadster celebrates its 35th anniversary in 2025, Mazda is rolling out a special edition exclusively for the Japanese market. This milestone model pays homage to the car’s legacy, its passionate community, and its timeless appeal.
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The journey of the Mazda Roadster began with the NA generation, which brought back the spirit of classic British roadsters, but with modern reliability. Over the years, four generations of the Roadster have refined this formula, enhancing performance, comfort, and technology while staying true to its lightweight ethos. It’s more than a car, it’s a cultural phenomenon. Roadster clubs, events, and gatherings worldwide highlight the deep connection this vehicle has with its fans.
This 35th Anniversary Edition is a fitting tribute to that legacy. It’s not just about celebrating the car; it’s a nod to the millions of enthusiasts who’ve cherished it, driven it, and made it their own.
Mazda’s 35th Anniversary Edition Roadster is a collector’s dream. Limited to only 1,000 units, it’s exclusively available in Japan, making it a true gem for JDM fans. The combination of exclusive features, premium touches, and that unmistakable Mazda craftsmanship ensures this car stands out, even among other special editions.
The exterior of the 35th Anniversary Roadster is all about refinement and sophistication. The standout feature is the Artisan Red Premium Metallic paint, a color that showcases Mazda’s Takuminuri painting technology. This advanced process mimics the precision of hand-painting, resulting in a deep, lustrous finish that highlights every curve of the car. The color isn’t just eye-catching; it’s exclusive, adding to the car’s allure.
Two distinct models are available: the Soft-Top and the RF (Retractable Fastback). The Soft-Top features a beige manually-operated fabric roof, providing a striking contrast to the red body for a timeless aesthetic. The RF model incorporates the Artisan Red finish seamlessly into its retractable hard-top, creating a premium, cohesive look whether the roof is up or down.
Additional exterior details include serial-numbered plaques mounted on the right rear fender, marking each unit’s unique production number. The Soft-Top rides on 16-inch lightweight alloy wheels, emphasizing agility, while the RF sports 17-inch high-gloss aluminum wheels for a more polished appearance. For an extra touch of personalization, Mazda offers an optional Artisan Red key shell, allowing owners to match their keys to their car.
Step inside, and you’ll find an interior that’s as refined as the exterior. The cabin of the 35th Anniversary Roadster is designed to exude a sense of luxury and exclusivity. Beige leather seats are the centerpiece, with 35th Anniversary crests embossed on the headrests. Tan accents are thoughtfully incorporated throughout the interior, appearing on carpets, floor mats, and the stitching on the steering wheel, shift knob, and parking brake lever.
The design team has paid close attention to details, adding dark red bezels around the air conditioning vents to tie the interior’s look to the Artisan Red exterior. This edition emphasizes a “mature” and “vintage” aesthetic over the sporty vibes of previous special editions, creating a cabin that feels comfortable, sophisticated, and timeless.
The 35th Anniversary Roadster continues Mazda’s tradition of delivering an exhilarating driving experience. Two engine options are available: a 1.5L Skyactiv-G engine for the Soft-Top and a more powerful 2.0L Skyactiv-G engine for the RF. The 1.5L engine produces 134 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque, perfectly suited for drivers who prioritize agility and a lightweight feel. The 2.0L engine ups the ante with 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, catering to enthusiasts seeking extra power.
Both models come with a standard 6-speed manual transmission, ensuring an engaging driving experience. For those who prefer automatic transmissions, an optional automatic gearbox is available for an additional ¥27,500 (~$175 USD). The Soft-Top weighs in at a mere 1,010 kg (2,227 lbs), maintaining its nimble character, while the RF, with its retractable hard-top, weighs slightly more at 1,110 kg (2,447 lbs).
Mazda has ensured that the 35th Anniversary Edition stays modern while retaining its classic charm. Wireless Apple CarPlay is now a standard feature, offering seamless smartphone integration. Safety and convenience are also prioritized, with advanced safety features and infotainment systems included as standard.
Adding to its exclusivity, the 35th Anniversary Edition introduces the Artisan Red Premium Metallic paint while discontinuing Zircon Sand Metallic, ensuring the special edition stands out in the lineup.
Mazda is no stranger to special editions. The 30th Anniversary Edition, launched in 2019, focused on sportiness, featuring vibrant orange accents, Recaro seats, and performance upgrades like Brembo brakes and Bilstein dampers. In contrast, the 35th Anniversary Edition takes a more elegant approach. Its beige interiors, tan accents, and mature design theme create a distinct identity, catering to fans who appreciate a more refined take on the Roadster.
The 35th Anniversary Roadster is priced as follows:
Orders are open until March 3, 2025, with production starting shortly after. Each car is uniquely numbered, making it a true collector’s item.
As the ND platform enters its 10th year, the 35th Anniversary Edition might be one of its final special editions. Fans eagerly speculate about the next generation of the Roadster, but one thing is certain: Mazda remains committed to the MX-5’s core values. Lightweight, fun-to-drive, and timelessly stylish, the Roadster continues to balance tradition with innovation.
The Mazda Roadster 35th Anniversary Edition is a fitting tribute to a car that has brought joy to millions. It celebrates 35 years of driving excitement, community, and innovation. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Roadster legacy, this special edition offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history.
Don’t miss your chance to pre-order before the March 2025 deadline, this is a once-in-a-lifetime car that’s sure to be cherished for generations to come.
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