Purists, get ready to rejoice. Many enthusiasts know that Mazda announced they would be starting a factory restoration program for its iconic MX-5 back in 2017. Many will also recall that the program currently caters only to cars in Japan. Despite that, Mazda received over 600 applications by the beginning of 2018 – and the first completed example just rolled off the line.

Are you ready to step into the past?

Mazda’s first restoration is a 1992-year model MX-5 V-Special edition (marketed as a Eunos Roadster in Japan) in a classic British Racing Green over tan leather interior. The car is owned by retired farmer Keiji Nishimoto who purchased the car brand new and has been driving it all around Japan for the last 26 years with his wife. He had been planning on bringing the car back to its former glory anyways, and when he heard of Mazda’s program, he was quick to apply.

The 1992-model MX-5 originally came equipped with the smaller 1.6-liter inline-four engine, and the V-special trim was outfitted with a classic Nardi steering wheel to compliment the tan leather – all of which have been faithfully restored to like-new by Mazda. In fact, the entire car has been restored to look like it just rolled off the assembly line in 1992 – factory color-matched hardtop and all.

We’re not sure if every MX-5 owner is in for the same treatment, but the Mazda restoration team gave Nishimoto a tour of their factory and facilities before delivering his car.

When asked what he plans on doing with the car, Nishimoto replied: “I plan to drive it for another 25 years.”

Currently, the MX-5 restoration program is only for cars in Japan, but with the huge number of NA Miatas around the world, we doubt we’re the only ones hoping they will expand the program worldwide – or at least to North America.