Strap in, NA Miata fans. Mazda Japan has unveiled the ultimate collection of MX-5 scale models. The 17-model diecast car set, each slightly different, represents the complete history of the first-generation Mazda Roadster. And it costs a whopping ¥180,000, or about $1300 USD.
Last year at the annual Roadster Karuizawa Meeting in Japan, Mazda conducted a survey of MX-5 fans. The model car set of 17 1/43-scale cars is the result of that survey. It starts with the four original colors offered at the Mazda Roadster’s 1989 debut — Classic Red, Mariner Blue, Silverstone Metallic, and Crystal White.
Following that quartet is one of every special edition Roadster offered in Japan:
- V Special (1990) Neo Green
- J Limited (1991) Sunburst Yellow
- S Special (1992) Brilliant Black
- S Limited (1992) Brilliant Black with red interior
- J Limited II (1993) Sunburst Yellow
- RS Limited (1994) Montego Blue Mica
- G Limited (1994) Satellite Blue Mica
- R Limited (1995) Satellite Blue Mica
- VR Limited A (1995) Artvin Red Mica
- VR Limited B (1995) Excellent Green Mica
- R2 Limited (1996) Chaste White
- B2 Limited (1996) Twilight Blue Mica
- SR Limited (1997) Sparkle Green Metallic
Technically speaking, the set consists of 16 cars and the 1990 V Special is a 17th bonus car. That car is distinct because it currently serves as part of the PR fleet at Mazda Japan. However, you can’t purchase the cars in the set without it, so it doesn’t really make a difference. Other “bonuses” in the set include a set of storage boxes with space for 16 cars, cards describing each model, and a display sheet depicting the history of the Roadster’s development.
Do the math and that comes out to about $76 per car, which is not cheap but also not ridiculous considering many 1/43 scale cars cost more than that in Japan. Unfortunately the set is only available for purchase in Japan, but we’re sure there are diehard Miata fans here that will figure out a way to buy it.
