In 2003 Mazda Japan built a limited number of Roadster Coupes.  All were hand finished at the Mazda R&E Department within the Hiroshima plant.   Only 350 were produced over a 8 month period and these were made up of 150 1.6 versions and 200 1.8 versions.  They were around AU$8000 dearer than the standard car when released.  Had Mazda Australia sold them here it is thought the price tag would have been over AU$60,000.  Nevertheless, these have already become highly collectable and will no doubt, increase in value in the years to come.  

In May 2007 we applied to the Dept of Transport and Regional Services (DOTARS) in Canberra to have this added to the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS).  After 18 months of "discussions, resubmissions and appeals" this model was finally included in October of 2008.

We are now working on obtaining the evidence to satisfy the requirements of SEVS and will hopefully have this compliance approval in the first half of 2009.