A Suffolk man has become the first UK customer to order an all-new Mazda MX-5 sports car – before it was even unveiled to the world.

Clive Sloman, who works in Ipswich, rushed to Donalds Mazda in West End Road in Ipswich, to put down a deposit, despite not having seen the car, no price being set and no date set for its arrival in the UK.

The latest incarnation of the iconic roadster was unveiled this month at simultaneous previews in Barcelona, Tokyo and California.

Mr Sloman said: “As an MX-5 enthusiast, who wanted one for 23 years, then finally getting one two years ago, the opportunity to upgrade and be the first in the country was too much! It was perhaps a bit of a gamble, placing an order for a mystery car, but as soon as the first images emerged, I knew I had made the right decision.

“It looks utterly fantastic – the lights, the bulging wheel arches, the awesome interior, it just adds up to the most desirable MX-5 ever.”

Carl Morris, general manager of Donalds in Ipswich, said: “It’s no surprise that the all-new MX-5 is already proving to be a huge hit with our new and existing customers in and around Ipswich, given the reaction it’s already had from the UK’s automotive press. There’s no denying it’s a great-looking car, and we’re sure this order is the first of many.”

For more information on the all-new Mazda MX-5, visit Donalds Mazda in West End Road, Ipswich, telephone 01473 287788 or visit www.donaldsgroup-mazda.co.uk