The 1998 MX-5 / MX-5 Miata Roadster Released in September 1989, the first-generation Roadster has been highly acclaimed for its fun-to-drive qualities and distinctive styling, and has received numerous awards around the world. With its total production to date approaching 480,000 units, the Roadster established a market for lightweight, open two-seat sports cars.    The new-generation Roadster, introduced in Japan in January 1998 and overseas markets thereafter, was developed to fully meet today's motoring needs. Its development was based on the desire to build a car that is "compact and fun to drive, with new levels of comfort and safety."    The new Roadster has a sportier look and feel, both inside and out, accentuated by a dynamic body style with lines that stress the wide and low design. Inside, the cockpit is simple and functional. With a snug, comfortable fit and lower driving position, the new Roadster has an exciting feel.    Another outstanding feature of the new Roadster is an excellent driving pleasure with quick acceleration and smooth response, thanks to a powerful inline four-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine (1.6-liter or 1.8-liter), a highly rigid body as well as a finely tuned chassis. In North America, only the 1.8-liter engine model is available.    The new Roadster is loaded with advanced active and passive safety features. With its stable suspension and reliable braking system, it provides a highly responsive driving performance. A four-wheel anti-lock braking system (4W-ABS), which delivers superior braking, is standard on models with automatic transmissions and optional on most models with manual transmissions.    Other safety features include a highly rigid Mazda Geometric Motion Absorption (MAGMA*) body that features a rigid cabin and front and rear crumple zones that effectively absorb impact energy. Dual door beams and side sills with enhanced rigidity help prevent cabin intrusion in the event of side impact. The new Roadster has passed Japan's new Side Collision Safety Standard and satisfies the requirements of the new European Collision Safety Standard (offset front collision and side collision), which is due to take effect in Fall 1998.    Other improvements such as a larger trunk, increased interior storage space and a Wind-Blocker to reduce the amount of air flowing from the rear to the front floor during open-air driving additionally enhance comfort and convenience.    * The expression MAGMA is used only in Japan. In overseas markets, it is called the Mazda Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption System.