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Jinba Ittai Fishbone chart

Five basic requirements were defined by Mazda engineers to realize the Jinba Ittai concept.

1. That the car would be as compact and as light as possible while meeting global safety requirements.

2. That the cockpit would comfortably accommodate two full-stature occupants with no wasted space.

3. That the basic layout would continue with the original’s front-midship rear-drive configuration with the engine positioned ahead of the driver but behind the front axle for 50:50 weight distribution.

4. That all four wheels would be attached by wishbone or multi-link suspension systems to maximize tyre performance, road grip and dynamic stability.

5. And that a power-plant frame would again provide a solid connection between the engine and rear-mounted differential to sharpen throttle response. Minimal Weight as a Virtue

There’s a natural tendency for curb weight to increase when we try to meet growing market demands. Realizing that this is contrary to the Jinba Ittai goal and that extra weight would have a dramatically negative influence on driving, cornering, and braking performance, Mazda engineers made every gram count. (In the English measurement system used in the U.S. and elsewhere, one pound equals 454 grams.) Their "gram strategy" assessed weight in the smallest possible increments and carefully scrutinized weight-trimming opportunities. Other weight-saving tactics were employed as well. Advanced technology was applied where practical to achieve a light and rigid unibody design using materials that offered higher strength and lighter weight.

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