Friday, 21 June 2013

Mazda MX-5 Yusho Concept

Mazda MX-5 Yusho Concept
Mazda Germany went a little bit crazy in 2012.  The Leipzig Motor Show of that year was used to show off an MX-5 concept car known as the Yusho (Victory in Japanese).  At first glance you could be forgiven for thinking it doesn't look much different from a regular left-hand drive model.  Which is true in a way, however the really interesting part is under the bonnet.  You see the Yusho features an enviable list of aftermarket tuning parts used to demonstrate just what was possible with the little roadster.  Now, if you're sitting comfortably I'll run through the specification...
  • Based on Soft Top model for reduced weight
  • 2.0 MZR Intercooled & Supercharged by tuning specialist Flyin' Miata
  • Uprated pistons and connecting rods by Cosworth 
  • 241PS (238Bhp) @ 6800rpm
  • 274Nm @ 5400rpm
  • Good for 150mph
  • 6-speed gearbox
  • Uprated clutch
  • Uprated fuel injectors
  • Custom engine map
  • 4.1 final drive ratio instead of 3.7
  • Toyo semi-slick R888 215/45/17 trackday tyres
  • Custom exhaust system with sports catalytic converter
  • Exhaust note control valves
  • Factory option rear lip spoiler
  • Unique rear diffuser with twin centre pipes and carbon wrap
  • Bilstein suspension
  • Eibach springs and anti-roll bars
  • Matte white vinyl wrap exterior finish
  • Black suede steering wheel
  • Black Recaro leather and Alcantara seats (as seen in the Karai edition)
  • Special edition Motec Nitro alloy wheel in a titanium finish 17x8 ET40
Mazda MX-5 Yusho Concept
Mazda MX-5 Yusho Concept
Mazda MX-5 Yusho Concept
Mazda MX-5 Yusho Concept
Mazda MX-5 Yusho Concept
Mazda MX-5 Yusho Concept
Mazda MX-5 Yusho Concept
I'm sure you'll agree the spec is pretty awesome and near enough 240Bhp would be fantastic fun on the road and could easily give cars like the Porsche Boxster a scare.  Sadly it will never see factory production due to prohibitive costs involved in building the bespoke engines and getting them through TUV certification, not to mention warranty issues.  You could of course build a similarly spec'd car yourself as most of the parts are available off the shelf.  As a marketing exercise it certainly shows what the roadster is capable of.  More details on the Yusho prototype can be found here.  You can see the Yusho in action around Hockenheim in this video from Mazda.