Mazda Brings ‘Zoom-Zoom’ To SEMA

Mazda is passionate about building cars that are fun to drive, but few vehicles in their lineup are ready to hit the track without some extra tweaks. For the 2010 SEMA show, Mazda decided to show off just how fun their cars can be with a few race-ready modifications.

According to CT Executive Auto Center, several Mazdas were brought to the Las Vegas event, including a couple Mazda2s, a pair of MX-5s, a two of Mazda3s, and of course an RX-8. Each of these vehicles have been re-tuned by North American design director, Derek Jenkins.

“The versatility of Mazda vehicles is extraordinary. With just minor modifications to a stock Mazda, it can be ready for the track or a car show,” said Derek Jenkins, director design, MNAO. “Our SEMA cars demonstrate this ability; taking a vehicle from the dealership and making it a truly unique piece.”

Of course, with the Mazda2 being the brand’s latest model, it possesses some particularly bold mods. There was a track version called the Mazda2 Evil Track and another called the Mazda2 Street. Both models illustrate just how fun a lightweight, relatively underpowered car can ultimately be with a few aftermarket parts.

Salisbury Mazda said that one of Mazda’s most iconic models, the MX-5, was also shown with some unique equipment. The MX-5 Super20 featured a supercharged Cosworth engine and an eye-catching paint scheme. The MX-5 Cup Car was a complete track-ready vehicle with loads of racing gear.

Mazda also featured two four-door Mazda3s, including a turbocharged model and another model called the Mazda3 Red Line Time Attack. The former is simply a modified street car, while the Red Line Time Attack is track ready and is capable of hitting 180 miles per hour on a long straight.

Rounding out Mazda’s show vehicles is the Grand-Am GT Mazda RX-8, which just completed the 2010 racing season, where it won six out 12 races, to the delight of dealers like Mazda Derby.