Test mule for both the new 2015 Mazda MX-5 and Alfa Romeo Spider sports cars spotted in the US
A test mule for the next-generation Mazda MX-5 and Alfa Romeo Spider sports cars has been spotted testing in the US.
The heavily disguised and modified MX-5 seen above is being used to test new proportions and new technology for both cars.
Both the MX-5 and the Alfa Romeo Spider will be sold with their own range of engines. Mazda reportedly intends to fit its MX-5 with a new naturally aspirated 1.6- SkyActiv engine developing around 130bhp as the staple unit. A diesel engine option is also being considered.
Alfa Romeo, meanwhile, is likely to fit the Spider with its own 1.4-litre TB MultiAir engine, which is currently offered in the Giulietta in two states of tune - 119bhp or 168bhp. A higher-capacity 1750TB unit is also likely to be used, the same unit as seen in the new Alfa Romeo 4C. Power for the range is likely to go from 120bhp through to 237bhp.
A six-speed manual gearbox is likely to be offered as the standard option in both cars, although a paddle-shift six-speed unit could also become available.
Commonlaity between the two crs is said to be relatively low, at around 40 per cent. A more typical figure for joint-venture projects is 60 per cent.