Smart has recently revived its lineup, now focusing on electric vehicles. The MX-5 maintains traditional elements.
I’m David Brown
And once again I am joined by the well-travelled Mr Paul Murrell from seniordriverauz.com
More of our thoughts, ideas and ramblings are covered on our website, podcast or social media – just search for Cars transport culture
Subjects
- Smart Car makes a comeback in Australia, started as a very clear expression of your personality. (1:21)
- Mazda MX5 – Old style image of driving with grit in your teeth and wind in your hair, but with more modern comfort (33:05)
News summaries
Smart Cars (1:21)
Swatch originally developed the concept for the Smart car with a unique approach, inspired by their watches’ design and customisation strategies. Volkswagen started to partnered with them but gave up, Mercedes Benz stepped in, launching the first Smart car in 1997.
The car was designed to be a small, fuel-efficient urban vehicle, but it struggled to gain traction due to its lack of space, particularly in markets like Australia. Despite initial success, the brand faltered financially, losing billions.
Smart, however, has recently revived its lineup, now focusing on electric vehicles. The new models, co-developed with Geely and built in China, are less distinctive than before, blending into the increasingly crowded market of compact electric SUVs.
Mazda MX 5
In 1976, Australian journalist Bob Hall suggested to Mazda’s Kenichi Yamamoto that the world needed a lightweight, simple sports car, like the classic British models that had vanished. Years later, after joining Mazda, Hall helped develop the MX-5.
Launched in 1989, the MX-5, or Miata in the US, by the year 2000 is had become the world’s best-selling sports car. Its design, inspired by the Lotus Elan, maintained a balance between simplicity and fun. The MX-5 evolved through four generations, each reviving sales to some degree. Its enduring appeal lies in its lightweight, agile handling, and driver-focused experience.
Contacts Details
Web Site: Driven Media: drivenmedia.com.au
iTunes: Cars Transport Culture
Spotify: Cars Transport Culture
Or our social pages
Or YouTube site
Search for Cars transport culture
Credits
And this has been overdrive
Thanks to
- Paul Murrell
- Mazda Australia
- Mark Wesley
- Bruce Potter
for their help with this program.
You can get more of our work including longer versions of the program on our website, through our podcasts, or more visual information on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube. In all cases search for cars transport culture.
Overdrive is syndicated across Australia on the Community Radio Network
This program was first broadcast on 7 September 2024
I’m David Brown
Thanks for listening
