The MX-5 Coupe Is An Iconic Production Car You Never Knew Existed

This incredibly rare Mk2 MX-5 coupe was recently spotted on a forecourt in Japan

18 May 2015

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Your eyes do not deceive you: this is a Mk2 Mazda MX-5 Coupe. Only 179 were ever made for the Japanese market - thanks to Mazda's collaboration with its Engineering and Technology team in 2003 - which makes these cars incredibly rare and highly sought after among enthusiasts.

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The MX-5 coupe boasts improved driving dynamics compared with the soft-top, as the metal roof - which adds just 10kg to the car's overall weight - improves chassis rigidity and reduces drag.

Four trim levels were offered, including one with a 1.6-litre engine and three sportier 1.8-litre iterations. This particular car is one of 63 Type S models, meaning it's packing the 1.8-litre engine, which is hooked up to a six-speed manual gearbox.

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Its rare status means it isn't cheap, however. This model was spotted in Fukuoka, Japan, while on sale for 1,830,000 yen (£10,840, $17,764). It's certainly pricey, but is sure to be a brilliant investment.

Here's footage of the car on the forecourt in Japan:

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