Rest In Peace Tom Matano—The Miata's Father Passes At 76

Tsutomu “Tom” Matano, the former Mazda designer best known for bringing the Miata to life, has died at the age of 76.

As chief designer for Mazda North American Operations in the 1980s, Matano was instrumental in turning the idea of a lightweight Japanese roadster—championed by journalist-turned-product planner Bob Hall—into reality. The 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata revived the spirit of classic British sports cars but graced it with Japanese reliability.

Still beloved by enthusiasts, the Miata has become the best-selling roadster in history.

While forever linked to the Miata, Matano’s influence extended far beyond one model. His pen played a key role in developing the third-generation FD RX-7, along with the RX-8 and numerous other projects during his two decades with Mazda.

Born in Tokyo, Matano graduated from Seikei University in 1969 before heading to California to study at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, one of the world’s premier automotive design schools. His career in automotive design began with roles at General Motors, Volvo, and BMW before Mazda hired him in 1983 to lead its North American design team.

Later, he returned to Japan to oversee Mazda’s global design operations, eventually retiring in 2002.

Unlike many auto executives, Matano remained closely connected to the enthusiasts who loved the produts he designed. He was a regular presence at Miata and RX-7 gatherings, often sharing stories about the cars’ development and design philosophy. For owners, he was not just the man who designed their car, but a fellow enthusiast who understood why these machines mattered.

Matano’s legacy lives on in the millions of Miatas still on the road and in Mazda’s continued commitment to making cars that put driving joy above all else—that may be his most lasting gift.

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