Through four generations and three decades, the Mazda MX-5 Miata remains an affordable sports car. When the question is which car is the best daily driver, weekend cruiser or track day toy, the saying goes ‘Miata is always the answer‘. Between its light weight, balanced handling and Japanese reliability, the Miata is a popular choice among auto enthusiasts.
These same characteristics have also made the MX-5 popular as a race car. For example, in the US, the Spec Miata class is the most popular road racing division in the country. It allows competitors to race in a cost-effective, single-make (spec) series based on an accessible production car which requires minimal modifications. In 2024, the CASC introduced the same concept to Ontario road racing and named it the Miata Canada Cup adopting a similar ruleset to the Sports Car Club of America.
- All generations of Miata are eligible to race in one of three classes, depending on age and level of customization.
- Miata Canada Cup 1 (MMC1 Class) – For Miatas designated as NA (1990 to 1997) or NB (1998 to 2005).
- Miata Canada Cup 2 (MMC2 Class) – For Miatas designated as NC (2006 to 2015).
- Miata Canada Cup Unlimited (MCCU Class) – For Miatas designated as ND (2016 to present) the unlimited class also includes vehicles modified beyond MCC1 / MCC2 rules
Restrictions are placed on newer, larger displacement engines to equalize performance. The transmission and final drive ratios remain as delivered by the factory. The suspension components must use the stock mounting points; however, shock absorbers, springs and sway bars may be upgraded. And based on the MCC class, components such as wheels, tires, and brakes are subject to specific limitations.
As it enters its second season, the Miata Canada Cup as attracted racers from open-wheel and GT series. Drivers from different disciplines are drawn to the series because it provides racers with the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete equally, while engaging in some of the best motorsports action in the country.
A four-race championship has been announced for 2025, with the recent addition of a high-profile, non-points race in support of the NASCAR Canada Series event in July.
May 10 to May 11 – Canadian Tire Motorsport Park
May 31 to June 1 – Shannonville Motorsport Park
July 25 to July 27 – NASCAR Support Race* at Calabogie
Aug 23 to Aug 24 – Calabogie Motorsport Park
Oct 4 to Oct 5 – Canadian Tire Motorsport Park
* non-points race
Miata is the answer to everything, like 42!
Ooh… are you one of those numerically superstitious people too? 42 plays a big role in my photo editing. If I’m cranking up the contrast on a picture, I’ll choose 42 as the starting point…always.
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And as far as the Miata, I’m hoping for car #42!
42 is also the answer to life, the universe, and everything in “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” But you are right. 42 is a special number. It’s significant and holds mysterious properties for religions, mathematics, numerology, astrology, astronomy, and culture.
When I read the HGttG the 42 answer srtuck 16 year olf me as hilarious. But now, when mature me is working on something, and the number 42 pops up in the calculation, I know Im on the right path.
Me too.