Amati Deal Is Signed

A letter of intent to launch Orange County’s first Amati dealership franchise has been signed by James Parkinson, operator of the Tustin Nissan and Beach Imports Saab-Alfa Romeo dealerships.

Amati is the new luxury car arm of Irvine-based Mazda Motor of America. The first Amati models, two sedans, are expected to debut in 1994.

Parkinson was one of 19 dealers throughout the United States awarded letters of agreement in Amati’s initial dealer selection round. A second group of dealers is expected to be announced in several months.

Clark Vitulli, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Mazda Motor of America, said that 50 Amati franchises are expected to be awarded and opened by 1994, when the cars first go on sale.

To date, more than 1,400 dealers throughout the country have applied for Amati franchises.