Earlier this May, Mazda and Alfa Romeo made a surprise announcement of a special joint program that will concentrate on the development of the next-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata as well as an all-new front engine rear wheel Alfa Romeo Spider meant to revive the Italian automaker's illustrated roadster heritage.
Initially, details confirmed that the two models will share underpinnings and will be built alongside one another at Mazda's Hiroshima plant. However, Alfa Romeo is making a point to differentiate its Spider from the MX-5 by offering unique Italian styling and a Fiat powertrain.
Now, Car and Driver has got a hold of some new details on what the duo is up to.
According to Car and Driver, the Alfa Romeo model will revive the iconic Duetto moniker and will also feature a force-induction direct-injection 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine. Expected to produce approximately 250 hp, this engine is also shared with the upcoming halo Alfa Romeo 4C mid-engine sports car.
What's more, transmission options in the Duetto offer both a six-speed manual and a dual-clutch automatic with paddles. Alfa Romeo has reportedly tried to convince Mazda to apply a dual-clutch for the next-generation MX-5 but the Japanese company remains very focused and committed to its Skyactiv-Drive range of automatic transmissions.
Finally, both the Mazda and the Alfa Romeo will benefit from the Skyactiv Technology program as Mazda develops an ultra-high tensile steel platform that will allow superior structural rigidity and weight reduction. This will not only make the two roadsters lighter on its feet, but more fuel efficient as well.
The next-generation Mazda MX-5 is scheduled to arrive in 2014 while the Alfa Romeo is expected to follow one year later.
