Mazda MX-5 MIATA 2003 Manual page 91

WARNING
Sudden Engine-Braking:
Shifting down while driving on wet,
snowy, or frozen roads, or while
driving at high speeds causes sudden
engine braking, which is dangerous.
The sudden change in tire speed
could cause the tires to skid. This
could lead to loss of vehicle control
and an accident. Do not use sudden
engine braking on slippery road
surfaces or at high speeds.
CAUTION
• Keep your foot off the clutch pedal
except when shifting gears. Also,
don't use the clutch to hold the
vehicle on an upgrade. This will
avoid needless clutch wear and
damage.
• Make sure the vehicle comes to a
complete stop before shifting to
reverse.
Shifting to reverse while the vehicle
is still moving may damage the
transmission.
NOTE
If shifting to reverse is difficult, shift
into neutral, release the clutch pedal,
and try again.
Starting and Driving
M Recommendations for Shifting
Upshifting
For normal acceleration, we recommend
these shift points.
5-speed
transmission
1 to 2 24 km/h (15 mph)
2 to 3 42 km/h (26 mph)
3 to 4 55 km/h (34 mph)
4 to 5 66 km/h (41 mph)
5 to 6 —
For cruising
5-speed
transmission
1 to 2 15 km/h (9 mph)
2 to 3 29 km/h (18 mph)
3 to 4 47 km/h (29 mph)
4 to 5 61 km/h (38 mph)
5 to 6 —
Downshifting
When you must slow down in heavy
traffic or on a steep upgrade , downshift
before the engine starts to overwork. This
reduces the chance of stalling and gives
better acceleration when you need more
speed.
On a steep downgrade , downshifting
helps maintain safe speed and prolongs
brake life.
Driving Your Mazda
6-speed
transmission
23 km/h (14 mph)
37 km/h (23 mph)
50 km/h (31 mph)
56 km/h (35 mph)
66 km/h (41 mph)
6-speed
transmission
18 km/h (11 mph)
32 km/h (20 mph)
44 km/h (27 mph)
56 km/h (35 mph)
68 km/h (42 mph)
5-9