The Mazda MX-5 (NC) is the third generation of the popular Mazda MX-5, produced from 2005 to 2015. It received critical acclaim upon its introduction in 2005, winning the prestigious Car of the Year Japan Award and consistently making Car and Driver’s 10Best list from 2006 to 2013. The NC model was a significant milestone for the MX-5 series as it was the first generation to offer a retractable hardtop variant, allowing the roof to fold or deploy in just 12 seconds without compromising trunk space.

During the initial years of production (2006-2008, NC1), the Mazda MX-5 NC showcased distinctive exterior styling by Yasushi Nakamuta. Notably, it shared no components with its predecessor, the NB, except for the fender-mounted turn signal lights on non-U.S. models and rear differential internals. The chief designer of this generation was Moray Callum, who played a key role in shaping the unique design elements of the NC model.

Key Points:
1. Third generation of Mazda MX-5, manufactured from 2005 to 2015.
2. Won Car of the Year Japan Award in 2005 and featured on Car and Driver’s 10Best list from 2006 to 2013.
3. Introduction of a retractable hardtop variant, offering a quick 12-second roof folding mechanism.
4. The NC1 model (2006-2008

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