So it begins; here we have the first appearance of a test mule for the next generation of the Mazda MX-5, and consequently, the new rear-wheel drive Alfa Romeo Spider, since the two companies came together to develop the shared-platform roadsters with each model featuring its own styling and crop of engines.
Being a chopped test mule wearing body parts from the current MX-5 Mk3, there's nothing we can comment about the styling as the primary purpose of this model is to evaluate and work on the chassis and powertrain components.
Nevertheless, as pointed out by our man with the long lens, the mule appears to feature a slightly longer wheelbase and overall length than the third generation MX-5.
While it may share the same timeless looks with the original MX-5, the current model is past due for a replacement as it has been around on the market for a little over eight years now. That will likely happen sometime next year with the Alfa Romeo Spider having already been officially confirmed for 2015.
Both models will be manufactured at Mazda’s Hiroshima plant in Japan. Mazda's roadster model and possibly the replacement for the hardtop roadster-coupe, will benefit from the brand's new SKYACTIV range of petrol engines and transmissions, while chances are that the Alfa will use one or more versions of the 4C's 1.75-liter turbocharged four.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS
