Miata Mailing List: October 1994, Message #119
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   From: BILL.ALLEN@metrokc.gov
Subject: Miata Stuff
   Date: Fri, 7 Oct 1994 12:57:46 -0400

I didn't see answers to all of Michael George Lowe's request, so I'll pitch in.
 Yes, the Miata's engine is derived from the 323's sideways (front wheel
driver) engine.  Yes, the Miata's transmission is taken from one of the RX-7's
units, which in turn, came from a Mazda pick-up truck.  Is the 94 Miata's
engine "fundamentally" different from earlier Miata's?  Well, it's not a rotary
:-)  I would guess it's a different block, based on the cam cover and intake
runners looking so different.  I haven't read anything about its origins nor
looked very close.
Bill Allen