Eunos Roadster (Duo 101/V705/P729/NA). 1989–98 (prod. 433,960 incl. pre-production to end of 1997). 2-door convertible. F/R, 1597, 1839 cm³ (I4 DOHC). Small roadster in the mould of the Lotus Élan but with Japanese reliability. Concept reportedly came from journalist Bob Hall, who pushed it to Mazda R&D head Kenichi Yamamoto, later chairman. Styling by Tom Matano. Mazda engineers paid close attention not just to the concept but other factors such as exhaust note. Directed at enthusiasts and incredibly successful. Sold in most markets as Mazda MX-5, with Miata tag for US. Larger engine in 1993.

Manufacturing location: Hiroshima, Japan

Marque: Eunos | Model: Eunos Roadster | Successor: Eunos Roadster (NB)