Special edition MX-5 will reach Australia

Only 200 of the MX-5 Special Edition models are available here and 3660 around the world with 2500 in Europe, 750 to USA, 200 to Canada and 10 to NZ.

Mazda Australia spokesman Steve Mciver says the rarity of the vehicle should ensure good resale values.  "In general the MX-5 is a classic," he says.

His opinion is backed by Shannons Insurance state business development manager Phil Ross.  "The Mazda MX-5 is obviously a very popular roadster having sold 900,000 worldwide so as a future classic you need to look at the special models that have been offered," he says.

"In 2001, an MX-5 SP won the showroom class at Targa Tasmania. The SP version was 1.8 litre turbo and is a collectable car in Australia today, and hard to find.

"The new special edition 2011 Mazda Mx5, with only 200 earmarked for Australia, we could be looking at another sought-after version.  "The low numbers will probably provide a slower rate of depreciation."

The MX-5 Special Edition arrives at $47,200 which is no extra cost on the standard coupe.  However, the Special Edition also includes stiffer Bilstein-tuned suspension with strut tower bar in the same finish as the 17-inch alloys, new exterior colours, chrome interior accents and grey leather seats, steering wheel and handbrake with highlight stitching.

Mciver says the vehicle was made available by head office.  "Occasionally they make a special edition and we decided we liked the look of it and the suspension and thought it would be a good option for people looking for something different," he says.

"Our product boys did their sums and came up with the special offer. If it was ongoing production we couldn't offer these prices.