Can the Mazda MX5 with Pop-up Headlights be Driven on the Road?
2 Answers
Mazda MX5 with pop-up headlights cannot be driven on the road in China. The country has very strict regulations on automobiles, with laws and rules restricting car designs. The playful pop-up headlight design is prohibited, and such vehicles are no longer allowed on the roads. The production of cars with pop-up headlights has been banned in China. Mazda MX5 specifications: The first and second generations of the Mazda MX5 were equipped with 1.6L and 1.8L engines, respectively. The newly redesigned MX5 features a 2.0L inline four-cylinder DOHC engine, delivering 118kW of power at 6700 rpm and a maximum torque of 188 Nm at 5000 rpm. Reasons for banning pop-up headlights in China: To protect pedestrian safety, as pop-up headlights can cause parts to scatter upon impact, posing a danger to pedestrians; In the event of a collision with a pedestrian, there is a high chance the pedestrian may hit the pop-up headlights after being knocked down, causing secondary injuries; The design of pop-up headlights does not comply with aerodynamics, increasing wind resistance; Prolonged use of pop-up headlights can lead to jamming, causing uneven opening on both sides, which may pose a danger while driving; Additionally, consumer demand for pop-up headlights has gradually declined, meaning they would likely be phased out even without the production ban.
The Mazda MX5 with pop-up headlights, specifically the first-generation NA model, is quite difficult to legally drive on the road nowadays. The main issue lies in the flip-up headlight design that was popular back then, which is now banned in our country due to safety concerns for pedestrians. Additionally, this car is nearly 30 years old, and its emission standards simply can't meet current policies. Even vehicles meeting the National II emission standard are restricted in first-tier cities, let alone this antique. Passing the annual inspection, especially the lighting test, is a real challenge—you'd need to temporarily modify the headlight structure to get through. So my advice is: it's fine for collection and fun, but if you're hoping to drive it daily, the procedures and regulations are extremely strict. Unless you can manage to complete the vehicle modification registration and pass the rigorous emission review, it's not practical.
