The Fidanza Miata Aluminum Flywheel for the MX-5 ND Miata noticeably improves acceleration in the lower gears and makes shifting smoother by reducing the flywheel inertia by roughly half. The Fidanza flywheel has a heat-treated and replaceable steel friction surface and is suitable for use with either stock OEM or aftermarket performance clutch/pressure plate applications. The machined-steel ring gear and is thermally secured to the flywheel outer diameter and further secured to the flywheel to prevent slippage during starting. Fidanza flywheel weight: 7.45 lbs
Racers have long recognized the benefits of a lighter weight flywheel - a faster revving and more responsive engine. The reduced mass of a lightened flywheel allows the engine to transfer more energy to the drive train, while expending less energy on bringing a heaver steel flywheel up to speed. This allows for a quicker revving engine, and notable ease with matching engine revs to gear selection. However, the installation of a lightened flywheel is not only for autocross or racing applications, many Miata owners find these very suitable for everyday street use.
Customer Feedback
In fact, many Miata owners are surprised just how much of a difference the installation of a lightweight flywheel will provide for their overall driving experience. As written by one satisfied customer, "Installation of this piece made the single largest improvement I've experienced of all my upgrades. (cat-back exhaust, clutch, intake, etc..) Throttle response is greatly increased, as is passing speed." Another Miata enthusiast noted, "I noticed was how much better shifts felt; the revs really drop FAST, making quick shifts MUCH more smooth."
Driving Technique
As noted above, a lightweight aluminum flywheel is considered a high performance or racing part, but aluminum flywheels are well-suited for street use. However a slight adjustment of your clutch engagement "technique" is required to master the art of driving with after the installation of an aluminum flywheel. Since there is less inertia with a lightweight flywheel, many people modify their engagement technique by raising the engine RPM slightly, and engaging the clutch just a bit more quickly. After just a few tries most people can master this technique. Combine this flywheel with an upgraded pressure plate and clutch disc for the ultimate combination.
Actual MX-5 ND flywheel shown in photos.