It's got a relatively small turbo that is only running 7.25 psi of boost.

(Insert comment about magazine racing being pointless here)

C&D tested one and ran 0-60 in 6.7 seconds and the 1/4 in 15.2 sec @ 91 mph.

Given that the weight is now up to 2540 lbs I'd say the 178 hp rating is pretty accurate.

 

I was looking for the specs of the IHI turbo but couldn't find any. I'll look for it later.

 

I did a bit of looking around and found some quasi-relevant information.

Various iterations of the Mazda 323 GTX used either the IHI RHF5 VJ-20, VJ-21 or VJ-22 depending on year and trim.

Given that the RHF5 VJ-series of turbos are made by IHI, have ball bearing center sections, and have been previously used by Mazda, I'd say it's a decent bet that the Mazdaspeed Miata uses one as well.

*edit*

Hey, it looks like I'm right. http://www.caranddriver.com/article....&page_number=3

Scroll down a bit and you'll see it says IHI RHF5.

 

I wish my Mazda 323 were a GTX....

 

Don't like Miatas at all, but at least they're trying.

 

My friend had one. It was a beast before they stole it:happysad:

 

Just out of curiosity - and with not an inkling of prejudicial malice - have you ever driven one?

What don't you like about them?

 

"They're homo cars."

 

I don't like them either.

I don't like convertibles

now turn it into a coupe and I'll bite

 

I knew it. At some point, somebody would bring up that old xenophobic saw about the Miata.

Pardon my language, but that argument is a crock of shit. :down:

Consider the ledger in favor of one.
A solid, durable four-cylinder.
Copious aftermarket support.
The finest-shifting transmission IMO, on the planet.
A brilliant, stiff, rear-drive chassis.
Phenomenal balance.
Telepathic steering. (IME only the 505STi is more direct)
Affordable new, a bargain used.

[ And if I didn't know you better, Mike, I'd assume you were only making that " statement " simply to elicit a visceral, vitriolic response. :db:]

[Guess what, it worked. ]