Why doesn't Ford use the Miata or RX8 chassis for Ford cars? Not rebadges but cars like a RWD couger that isn't the same as a Mustang and maybe a small RWD sedan? Both chassis seem under utilized.

 

As far as I know, the Miata is based on the RX-8 chassis. So, it's essentially the same.

And why you ask? B/C we're sloppy Americans and don't want a slick handling, affordable RWD sedan in a tidy package.

 

Yeah the current Miata does share most of its chassis design with the RX-8, though they sacrafised a bit of structural strength here and there to use lighter materials - the RX8's chassis as was, was too heavy for the Miata.

 

Damn good question, if you ask me!

Maybe the D2C is better for Mustangs and larger cars, but a new Cougar based on a reskinned RX8 would be something. Even a Solstice-like car would be nice.

Best guess on the "why not"? Ford doesn't want to jeprodize the Mustang's volume with another small RWD coupe.

 

It's kinda like Ford's Kappa, but slightly more flexible and several hundred pounds lighter.

 

 

But as killing the LS & SVT, refusing to bring over that cool Focus, or using the Falcon as a model for it's big cars instead of the dull Five Hundred show, Ford isn't very good at realizing the good stuff it has in house.

Z28x, again. You ask a damn good question.

But again, it's par for the course at today's Ford.

 

It may not be the best platform for a V8 car, but it seams like an easy choice for a platform share. An RX8 based 2+2 sedan powered by a 3.5L V6 or Turbo 2.3L would sure bring some life to Mercury.

Even a cheap RWD 2 seat hardtop coupe would be cool for Ford. Kind of like the Solstice coupe or the Ford Reflex concept. A Fun, stylish small car thats good on gas (and RWD )

volume = faster ROI