The 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is celebrated as a quintessential roadster, offering an unmatched open-top driving experience. Within the 2007 lineup, the MX-5 Miata SV stands out as the entry-level trim, focusing on delivering the core essence of the Miata: lightweight agility and pure driving pleasure. This article delves into the specifics of the 2007 MX-5 SV, exploring its features and what makes it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts.
The 2007 model year marked a significant evolution for the MX-5, part of the NC generation. Mazda offered a range of trims to cater to different preferences, including the SV, Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. Each trim level built upon the last, offering a variety of features and amenities. However, the 2007 MX-5 SV was uniquely positioned as the purist’s choice, emphasizing the fundamental driving experience over luxury or advanced technology.
2007 MX-5 Model Lineup: A Quick Overview
Before diving deeper into the SV, let’s briefly outline the 2007 MX-5 model range to understand where the SV fits:
- SV: The base model, available exclusively as a soft top, focusing on the essential roadster experience.
- Sport: Stepping up from the SV, the Sport trim added comfort and convenience features, and was available in both soft top and Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) configurations. Notably, in 2007, the Sport trim was positioned below the Touring, a change from the 2006 lineup.
- Touring: Positioned above the Sport, the Touring model emphasized enhanced features and a touch more sophistication, available in both soft top and PRHT.
- Grand Touring: The top-tier trim, the Grand Touring, offered premium features, including leather upholstery and a Bose audio system, also available in both soft top and PRHT versions.
- Limited Edition: As the name suggests, a special, limited production version with unique styling and features.
Key Features of the 2007 MX-5 Miata SV
The 2007 MX-5 SV is characterized by its focus on the fundamentals. It provides a direct and engaging driving experience thanks to its standard features:
- Engine: Powered by a responsive 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing (VVT). While the horsepower rating was officially downrated to 166 hp in 2007 due to new governmental testing procedures (from 170 hp in 2006), the engine retained its lively character and eagerness to rev.
- Transmission: Equipped with a precise and engaging 5-speed manual overdrive transmission, exclusive to the SV and Sport trims. This transmission is a key element in delivering the pure driving feel Miatas are known for.
- Braking and Suspension: Features power four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution for confident stopping power. The suspension system is designed for agile handling, incorporating a double wishbone front suspension with aluminum control arms, an independent multilink rear suspension with aluminum bearing support, front and rear stabilizer bars, and gas-charged shock absorbers.
- Wheels and Tires: Rolls on 16-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels paired with P205/50R16 high-performance tires, providing a good balance of grip and responsiveness.
Alt text: Interior view of a 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata SV showcasing the 5-speed manual transmission.
- Exterior: The SV comes with a black vinyl Z-Fold soft top, emphasizing its roadster nature. It includes body-color power mirrors, two-speed intermittent windshield wipers, a rear fender-mounted antenna, and clear lens halogen headlights with projector-type low beams.
- Interior: The interior of the 2007 MX-5 SV is functional and driver-focused. It features black cloth upholstery and carpet floor mats, open storage compartments behind the seats, a lockable rear center console, and a glove compartment. Practical touches include door-mounted bottle holders and dual cup holders with a cover. The gauges are white on black with red nighttime illumination, including a tachometer, coolant temperature, and oil pressure gauges.
Alt text: Dashboard of a 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata SV highlighting the white on black gauges with red illumination.
- Technology and Convenience: Standard features include power windows with a driver’s one-touch-down feature, an AM/FM stereo with a single-disc CD player and two-speaker sound system, and a 3-spoke urethane tilt steering wheel. It also features essential safety equipment like dual front and side impact airbags and an engine-immobilizer security system. Notably, the SV model did not include air conditioning as standard, reflecting its focus on core driving experience and lower price point.
Options and Packages for the 2007 MX-5 SV
The 2007 MX-5 SV was intentionally offered with limited optional packages to maintain its status as the base, purist model. Unlike the Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims, the Convenience Package and Suspension Package were not available for the SV. Similarly, options like the 6-speed sport automatic transmission, run-flat tires, and premium packages were not offered on the SV. This streamlined approach kept the SV focused and affordable.
However, some individual additional options were still available for all models, including the SV, such as:
- In-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 Changer
- Detachable hardtop (for soft top models)
- Chrome fuel-filler door
- Rear lip spoiler
- Perimeter shock sensor alarm
- Cargo net
- Door edge guards
- All-weather floor mats
- Front and rear splash guards
- Sirius Radio receiver kit
- Wheel locks
The 2007 MX-5 SV and the Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT)
It’s important to note that the 2007 MX-5 SV was exclusively available as a soft top model. The groundbreaking Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT), introduced in 2007, was not an option for the SV trim. This further solidified the SV’s position as the traditional roadster in the lineup, emphasizing the classic open-top experience.
Conclusion: The 2007 MX-5 SV – A Roadster in its Purest Form
The 2007 MX-5 Miata SV represents the essence of the MX-5 philosophy. By focusing on the core driving elements – a responsive engine, engaging 5-speed manual transmission, and agile handling – the SV delivers a pure and undiluted roadster experience. While it forgoes some of the comfort and convenience features found in higher trims, the 2007 MX-5 SV provides an accessible entry point into the world of open-top sports car enjoyment, making it a compelling choice for drivers who prioritize driving purity above all else. For those seeking the most direct connection to the road and the classic roadster feel, the 2007 MX-5 SV remains a standout option in the celebrated MX-5 lineage.
