A bigger engine debuts with bigger wheels and tyres on the Mazda MX-5 roadster. So is the 2.0-litre a better drive than the delectable 1.5?

WHAT IS IT? The ‘big-block’ ND MX-5, prompted by size-obsessed Americans who thought 1.5 litres wasn’t enough for their favourite roadster. Rumour has it the Yanks threatened a total MX-5 boycott, leaving Japan no choice but to develop a 2.0-litre version courtesy of the base SkyActiv-G donk from the 3, CX-3 and CX-5.

WHY WE’RE TESTING IT? Supply of the 2.0-litre wasn’t forthcoming when the new MX-5 launched here in early August, hence a delay of almost four months. But if you consider what the 118kW/200Nm 2.0-litre has done for the MX-5’s power-to-weight figure – 114kW per tonne versus 95 for the 1.5-litre version – then it’s a step in the right direction for anyone obsessed with performance.

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THE WHEELS VERDICT PLUS: Wonderful chassis; lightweight engineering; stronger, throatier, more tractable engine; larger wheels toughen-up the look MINUS: 2.0-litre gives up 1000rpm sooner than the effervescent 1.5; slightly firmer ride at low speeds; owners will need to stay off the cream buns – the petite MX-5 doesn’t accept all body types

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THE WHEELS REVIEW THERE IS something about the new MX-5 that inspires genuine emotion, and we’re not talking the adrenal kind. It’s deeper and warmer than that, almost as if you’re discussing which of your own kids you like more. That’s the level of passion surrounding the MX-5 1.5 versus MX-5 2.0 debate.

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The 2.0-litre MX-5 is rumoured to be a result of the Americans having kicked up a stink about the concept of driving only 1.5 litres. It’s a meatier engine than the 1.5, thanks to a 23 percent power increase and a 33 percent jump in torque – though with almost 34 percent more cubic capacity, we expected more urge. Maybe it’s the abbreviated rev limit – the 2.0-litre hits cut-out right on redline at 6800rpm, whereas the 1.5 will sing past its seven-five red zone to kiss 7750rpm – because we all know revs equal power. Either way, when the 2.0-litre MX-5 reaches its ceiling, there’s a slight feeling of disappointment that it won’t extend just that little bit more.

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There isn’t that much in it, to be honest. A second from 0-100km/h (7.3sec for the 2.0-litre six-speed manual versus 8.3sec for the 1.5), and 10km/h extra with your foot flat on a German autobahn (214km/h top speed against 204) is what $2500 extra buys you, though that’s at the extreme end of the scale. In reality, the 2.0-litre feels stronger and doesn’t need to be flogged, whereas the 1.5 rewards commitment, both in terms of attaining revs and maintaining momentum.

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But that’s like arguing over what colour serviettes should garnish a Michelin-star dinner. The MX-5’s main meal is so frigging delicious that every variation is something to savour.

Colour by numbers

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Both engines share a 13.0:1 compression ratio and drink 95 octane juice or higher – an identical tune to European MX-5s. The 2.0-litre is thirstier than the 1.5, but the difference – both on paper and in the real world – is minimal. The 1.5 manual’s combined fuel number is 6.1L/100km against the 2.0 manual’s 6.9.

SPECS Model: Mazda MX-5 2.0-litre Engine: 1998cc 4cyl, dohc, 16v Max power: 118kW @ 6000rpm Max torque: 200Nm @ 4600rpm Transmission: 6-speed manual Weight: 1033kg 0-100km/h: 7.3sec (claimed) Fuel economy: 6.9L/100km Price: $34,490 On sale: Now

Click here to read the full review on the Mazda MX-5.