Mazda Miata M-Coupe Concept: A Rare Gem

Rarely SEEN - For decades, enthusiasts have expressed a desire for the Mazda Miata to be offered in a coupe variant alongside its beloved roadster form. This vision was more than just a dream; it was once seriously considered by Tom Matano, the original designer of the Miata. Back in the 1990s, he presented the concept of a Miata coupe to Mazda’s upper management. The culmination of this vision was showcased in 1996 with the unveiling of the Miata M-Coupe Concept at the New York Auto Show.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept developed by Mazda, and had debuted in 1996. (Picture from: GTPlanet)

The M Coupe garnered significant attention at the event, captivating the hearts of Miata fans and curious visitors alike. Powered by a 1.8-liter engine delivering 133 horsepower, the coupe stood as a striking alternative to the traditional roadster. Unfortunately, despite its appeal, the M-Coupe was never approved for production. The reasons for this remain frustratingly elusive, but it's rumored that the decision-makers at Mazda were not swayed by the excitement surrounding the concept. Four years later, the M-Coupe made a return to the New York Auto Show, but only because Mazda lacked other intriguing projects to display.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept posed along with its creator Tom Matano (second from right) and his team. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)

For true Miata aficionados, a recent video by Savage Geese has brought this concept back to life. The video not only resurrects the M-Coupe but also features Tom Matano himself. Matano, who played a pivotal role in developing the original Miata in the 1980s, had a vision that extended beyond the roadster. In collaboration with product planner Bob Hall, he envisioned a family of Miata variants, which included both a coupe and a speedster. After the success of the first-generation Miata (NA), Matano crafted a full-size model of the coupe in 1992 and sent it to Japan for evaluation.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept with a new design featured a fiberglass fixed roof, complemented by a subtle double-bubble design and generous rear glass. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack) (Picture from: Motor1)

In his interview, Matano elaborates on the rationale behind the M-Coupe. He aimed to demonstrate that the Miata could thrive as more than just a roadster. The new design featured a fiberglass fixed roof, complemented by a subtle double-bubble design and generous rear glass. He also modified the rear fenders, raising them to harmonize with the new proportions of the vehicle. While the M-Coupe retained its 1.8-liter engine, a Remus exhaust system was one of the few modifications made to the powertrain.

Inside of a rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept, unique touches included custom seats adorned with M logos, suede door panels, and Momo pedals and gearshift. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)

The interior of the M-Coupe showcased the advantages of a fixed roof. Without the need for a folding mechanism, Matano's design allowed for a parcel shelf, enhancing the overall storage capacity. Inside, unique touches included custom seats adorned with M logos, suede door panels, and Momo pedals and gearshift. The distinctive double-bubble roof, though made of fiberglass, contributed to a sleek aesthetic without significantly increasing the car’s rigidity. The altered proportions and the new custom rear window and modified bumper added to the vehicle's appeal.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept powered by 1.8-liter engine, mated a Remus exhaust system was one of the few modifications made to the powertrain. (Picture from: GTPlanet)

While today's Miata models, such as the ND generation, have embraced innovative designs like the RF targa, the classic notion of a non-folding hardtop remains tantalizing. Many Miata enthusiasts have opted to create their own coupes by installing fiberglass roofs. This process is not overly complicated or costly, though it may lead to minor issues like extra panel gaps, which can be bothersome for those who appreciate meticulous craftsmanship.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept featured a fiberglass fixed roof, complemented by a subtle double-bubble design and generous rear glass.. (Picture from: GTPlanet)

Mazda's past explorations into alternative Miata designs remind us of the brand's innovative spirit and commitment to the enthusiast community. The Miata remains a symbol of automotive joy, and the concept of a coupe variant continues to capture the imagination of fans around the world. 

As we look ahead, the legacy of the Miata, with its combination of simplicity, performance, and open-air driving, leaves us wondering what new iterations and designs could emerge in the future. The Miata story is far from over, and as long as there are enthusiasts dreaming of coupes, the spirit of innovation and excitement will keep it alive. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SAVAGE GEESE | MIATA IN REDDIT | MOTOR1 | ROADANDTRACK | GTPLANET ]

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