Any possibility of great cars without cameras, microphones, internet/cellular connections and just focus on making the best driving experience for under $23k instead of having something with more surveillance than most government buildings?
@@SimGuntherYeah, anything built before 2003. Or before 2008 if you avoid GM and OnStar. Anything new with that criteria, not a chance. They're passing legislation in the US for every car made after 2026 to have a kill switch installed from factory. This is to "prevent dangerous car chases". Unfortunately, this train is traveling one way only. The only way to get back to the way things were is to go back in time. I feel your pain.
As an engineer and an owner of ND, I can confidently tell this is so well done that it hits and connects the engineering and driving halves of my heart.
@@papa_ptSo true. I'm the son of a mechanical engineer. I can't design anything to save my life, but I can repair about anything mechanical. I can also look at anything and tell you if it's a good or bad design. During the 90s when this poor engineering trend started in the American market, the JDM market stepped up and almost replaced it. These days, just about everyone does the same type of engineering fails. Some just more than others. I really miss the days of the chevy 350 small block and the ford 289 windsor engines. Only a few vehicles have retained that type of simplicity. Here is one. My backup vehicle is an 07 F150 with a pushrod 4.2L Essex engine and a 5spd manual. Besides the ATF being used as transmission fluid and the bloody clutch slave cylinder being inside the bell housing, the rest of the truck is pretty solid. You can't say the same about every other engine that came with that truck. This truck is just a rare example of one that didn't have an interior that fell apart, or an engine that isn't plagued with problems. It just works and is pretty easy to work on. If American manufacturers were focused on simplicity and function, JDM manufacturers wouldn't need to show them how it's done.
Hi there from Germany. (Forgive my bad English) I have the ND (A) Sportsline (Bilstein-Chassis, 205/45/17), made 2016 (160 hp - with a little help from my friends: 174/5900 hp and 220/4000 Nm - it revs easily to 6500 rpm). It's my daily drive. I do not need any other car. My wife and me we put a luggage rack on the trunk, with a good old leather-suitcase on it and do our 2-week-vacation throughout Europe. I drive it in Winter. It is fantastic to drive with open roof trough a snowy landscape in the sun. I drive it in the Citiy and for business travels. Doesn't matter if it is citystreets, autobahn (chasing SUV's) or country roads. I can say: I'm blessed with this car. It allways gives good feelings - becaus it is so "direct" - in german we say: "unmittelbar". You hear the Transmission when it becomes warm. You feel the road in your butt. You feel the vibrations of the chassis. And - most importantly - it does, what you feel: The Moment you think "steer right" it does it (trogh your hands). You think "shift the next gear" - it does it (throgh your hand). I believe, I can shift faster from 1rst through to 6th gear, than a automatic dual-clutch transmission, because the ways of the shifter are short an the clutch-pedal is .... it is...oooh.... it just is....you know? . You can turn mostly every corner in a right angle (with the Bilstein chassis). And it is faster, than it is 🙂. On the Autobahn at 130 kmh (80 mph) you only talk, if you have to. At 160 kmh (100 mph) you will not talk. Becaus it is loud (the nice loud) and it feels much faster. At 200 kmh (125 mph) - just before you shift into 6th - you feel like you will not come back alive. I chased an SUV the other day. 10 minutes at 220 kmh (137 mph) in slipstream. After that, I was smiling the rest of the day. I was high - because I was still living an I had been lightspeed-fast. It is 6 years in my hand now. 82.000 km (51.000 mls). I will drive it till I can not get in and out anymore. I hope this will be in more than 20 years (I'm 56 now 🙂the children have their own cars). Then I will inherit it to my Grandson. (just for interest: the fuel-consumption is 6,82 l/100 km since 82.000 km.) Thanks for this great video, that reminded me how lucky I am
I don't own a miata, I have an mr2 that hopefully in 20 years, when I'll be 54, I'll still be driving it. Little 2 seats old cars are truly something special.
After watching your documentary on the miata, it has EASILY become one of my all time favourite cars. The amount of engineering thought, and focused commitment to a vision that went into this car is literally unavailable anywhere, until you get into unobtainium supercars. Mark in the end put into words EXACTLY what my thoughts are. He pretty much nailed everything I wanted to say, but more eloquently lmao. I can tell he loves this car :D
In the video, they mentioned having to spend much more money for a better or similar driving experience elsewhere. But for shear driving satisfaction, I don’t think there is a better option at any price. When you get into hyper expensive sports cars, like the 911’s of the world, you’re back to the ‘too powerful, too heavy’ scenario. There’s no other sports car today that is so entirely usable, on the street or track.
Your videos put me in a ND1. Got a used 2016 at the end of 2019 with 25k miles for $19,000 and it has been a great car to learn to drive in. Just yesterday my daughter and I put new coilovers and sway bars in and hung out for hours in the garage together. We have done autocross together and In 5 years when she can legally drive I have no doubt she will steal my car. Oh well, guess I’ll need to get another Miata.
The video absolutely nails everything and he’s absolutely right. 20 years from now, when every single car 6000 pound car is doing 0-60 in 2.Something seconds, we will be clawing to buy and keep these lightweight, affordable machines that were actually made for ‘driving’.
Dang there’s been a bunch of good Miata content on RUclips recently with vids by Engineering Explained and Jason Cammisa. Man I feel like it’s my next ride
@@fortheloveofnoise any GT since like 2019 already has plenty of “safety garbage”, what are you on about? The main thing changing for 2024 is the addition of adaptive cruise control, that thing most people like.
@@thatoneotherotherguy I was about to post this. Basically 2024 is a mild exterior change, lights to LED, a better rear view mirror, better infotainment system, and adapative cruise control and we have no idea if this will be on all trims. The fancy stuff, like the motion headlights, was all reserved for the top tier but one could still get a bare bones base model. I wouldn't surprised if this is the case for Adaptive cruiser control.
When I got my RF Club this summer I drove it 1500 miles straight from Boston to Charleston. 16 Hours straight, I'm 6'1" and I was comfortable the whole time. I fit my duffle bag and skateboard and sleeping bag in the little trunk. I took my sister out to dinner and talked to a guy with a hardtop C8, who was also from MA and he was just as interested in my car as I was in his. On the way home I did the whole 16 hours top down. I was on the George Washington Bridge in NY at 1 am with a couple hundred tractor trailers; ok that was bad. I think my point is this car is special at the intangibles too. It can do a lot more than people expect and give you an experience while doing it. I'm gonna keep this car forever and give it to my kids when I die.
@@edwardlacika3022 haha yes I am sure of my own height. Have you tried sitting in one? My head doesn't hit it's just close; it'll touch with a helmet. Unless you have a crazy long torso you should be fine. ruclips.net/video/V0TdtjCOxhA/видео.html
My last sports car was an Audi TT RS. Great car, very fast -- but on public roads it was boring unless it was going way too fast. The Miata is fun at ANY speed, that's what makes it so amazing!
I have watched this review five or six times and have been dreaming of a Miata for a decade. I finally ordered one from the factory yesterday. Thank you for all you’ve done to document this amazing vehicle.
@@TapTwoCounterspell I just recently picked up the car and paid a hair north of 30k. I bought a base model with only three options, the roadside assistance kit, the metal pedal kit, and wheel locks. It's been awesome so far. Only thing that I have to say is that living in the north and this being my daily, I am going to have to get winter wheels & tires and rust proof the car before this winter.
I actually went and bought a used Miata and it’s now the benchmark for me of what a good sports car is. Thank you so much for turning me on to this amazing vehicle and for ruining me for all other sports cars. 😂
I finally bite the bullet and purchased an ND2 recently, and this video really helps underscores why this car is so important. It's just hard to see how something like this can ever be made again without some compromises for "modern car buyers".
I never got the whole “slower cars are fun” thing until I drove a 2013 Civic Si for the first time in years. At the time, I owned a modded Stinger which could do illegal speeds very quickly and without you even feeling like you were going that fast. I was revving out the Si, changing gears feeling like I was flying and we were going 45. It made me definitely want something more like that as a fun car.
ahaha yeah, when I test drove an ND2, my gf took a turn and I was like "woah hey let's not get too crazy, the speed limit here is only 40mph" then I looked at the dash and it was like 35mph lol
By contrast, my previous car was a WRX and that was a blast to drive but only at around 80mph and I racked up a lot of tickets really fast. And my gf's car is a tesla, which puts both to shame in raw numbers but is incredibly boring to drive.
@@emissarygw2264 yeah I can’t get into electric cars, it’s cliche but they really have no soul. Like I really appreciate the technology and I’m impressed by them but they just feel like tools. Now I drive a 2023 IS500 and I love it so much. I’m a car hopper but I have no desire to sell this thing.
Another greeting from Germany. I think you hit the nail on the head with this review. I got my ND2 in March of 22. I had rented a couple before, on anniversaries and such. First, an RF, then in 2021, a soft top. We had it for 5 days and put 2000 kms on it. My wife had a smile on her face the whole time. After that, she said, "Yeah, we can get one of these". That was in the Fall of 21 and we had ours a few months later. I had to drive 3 hours to get one in blue, but it was so worth it. Im lucky that it doesn't have to be my daily driver, but during the Summer, we were taking it out almost every weekend. So much fun to drive. My wife and i took it to Normandy last year for 5 days and it was perfectly fine for a trip like that. Autobahn/highway driving can be a little boring, but that's the case with a lot of cars. My son and i really put it thru it's paces this past July when we drove it thru Lichtenstein, Austria, Italy and Switzerland. Again, a 5 day trip, and 1700 kms. We drove it on the Stelvio Pass and the Furka Pass, as well as many others, and it performed incredibly well. So much fun. I'm 62, 5'10", 200lbs. It's not a perfect fit for me, but that's my fault and can be rectified. I drove a rented Jag F-Type in the states in 2019. It was a lot of fun, and i fit in it better, but not practical pricce wise. I prefer my little MX-5 Go-Kart. Best car purchase I've ever made, for my well-being and mental health. Thank you for the review, even though i didn't need it to convince me that this is a great car.
Well said! High horsepower is flashy but it wears off quick. Lower horsepower with a well tuned chassis that dances with you at street speeds is a magic I didn’t understand until I matured past the flash.
There is so much to be said about a light, low HP vehicle. You won't win any races at lights but that isn't what driving is about. The guys in their Golf R's and V8 Hemi's are miserable souls that need the HP to prove something to themselves, whatever that is, by winning acceleration at lights and going to a big circle jerk at Chili's. Meanwhile you have these old-world approaches to a drivers car that Mazda (and once upon a time, Ford with the Escort RS\Focus SVT\ST, GM with the Solstice\Sky, Toyota with the MR2, Nissan with the 240SX, Honda with the Prelude\Del Sol, and even BMW with the Z3) believe in. An car focused on one thing above all else: an approachable, unique connection between car and driver. There are always sacrifices when your focus as a designer is to make one thing 110%, but if you pull off that 110%, it's worth it.
Exactly. Living in the NY area it’s funny watching these high performance cars either sitting in bumper to bumper traffic, stuck behind endless SUVs or taking it easy due to the poor quality roads. Simple is better.
There’s a guy in my area running a simple lawn care business with his. Dude has a trailer with a ride on mower and a few other tools and goes around doing lawns. It’s funny seeing’s him next to a giant F150 that’s hauling the same stuff lol
I love all the Miata content coming from all of the good Auto RUclips channels recently! I’ll say it again, after having a bunch of cars, the Miata is something I always come back to. I’ll always keep one in the garage.
Nothing better than having an SG video praising the car I drive most days. I love my Soul Red Crystal ND2 RF Club. Everything you want. Nothing you don't.
I recently bought an ND2 last week. It's amazing, automotive therapy even. And I agree with the point, even though they're not that rare, it's very difficult to find an analogue n/a and lightweight car like this being produced today. Everything is turbo or hybrid now, so yeah the mx5 nd definitely a future classic imo. I also think the new mx5 concept being electric is good news for an Nd owner, these will be sought after in a few years.
I had a 2017 RF and loved it. It was my "summer" car alongside a Focus ST. I loved the ND and it completely wrecked my confidence in driving the ST, just from the direct control the ND gave me. I felt like I was actually integral to the driving experience. Everything else I drive I feel like I'm just there directing or watching the car do the things I tell it. There really isn't a good way to describe it. You've either driven one, or you haven't. Once you do, you instantly understand.
I own a nicely modified ND2 (springs, sway bars, chassis bracing, wheels/tires, etc) and a Mk7 Golf R. I'm not sure I agree or even understand the notion that the ND "completely wrecked" your confidence when driving the ST.
@@axledog7297 when I drove thr ND, it was like an extension of my body. I had confidence in the way the car moved and responded to inputs. When I went back to the Focus, I realized that the feedback and information I got from the ND was missing, and I didn't feel as confident with the car. My ND was bone stock and the Focus has some very light modifications. When driving the ND: "oh, this is what great handling feels like." When driving the ST: "oh, that's what torque feels like." Maybe a slight exaggeration... The ND felt like a tight driving glove, the Focus felt like a ski glove.
This is the way it's always been. Riding in one is not good enough. Drive one. Once you spend 10 minutes driving a Miata, you get it. Because you actually get to DRIVE a Miata, not just be behind the wheel while it's going. Top down, tearing through gears.
I got a 2023 G70 recently and, while I love it for the plush twin-turbo paddle-shifted rocket-barge that it is, it makes me appreciate my 2008 manual MX5 even more than before too. The contrast between the two really is "another planet".
I thought I'd never enjoy street driving again until I got a ND2 this year. It's easy to live with on track too. You need to do some minor upgrades (tires, brake pads, and fluid, like most cars) but it doesn't overheat, the brakes don't fade, and the tires don't get greasy.
I also have an nd2, and brake fluid is a must if you track it. I managed to cook both it and the pads on a (really) twisty road. Also if the roads are rough in your area, id argue you must change the tires. The stockers have insanely stiff sidewalls that shakes your bones to death.
@@dougmaverick3287: If you’re in a climate where you can use Summer tires all year (or will switch to snow-rated tires when needed), the latest versions of either Continental Extreme Contact Sport or Michelin Pilot Sport are the best street tires for the ND. If you have an ND with 17” wheels, the stock tire size is 205x45 R17, but those wheels can easily accommodate 215x45 R17, which will give you a slightly wider track (more grip) and slightly taller sidewall (more comfort). In my experience, the Contis are a bit quieter and more comfortable, while the Michelins provide a bit sharper steering and a little more dry weather grip. They both greatly increase wet-weather grip, with the Contis having a slight advantage. Either are miles ahead of the stock Bridgestones in both comfort and handling.
I watched an interview with Dave Coleman where he said the ND engine was designed to maintain good oiling throughout at cornering in excess of 1g. Who does that?
I've owned the NA, NC & ND, and with each and every drive I park and feel as if I've been on a great experience whilst behind the wheel of these magnificent cars. Pound for pound and dollar for dollar nothing can compare to the pure driving exhilerance and natural fun they offer. Kudos to you gents on telling it like it is and the great videos. Cheers!
@@jonathanrobinson592 I purchased the ND RF and drove it for 6 months, and ultimately sold it. What I didn't like was the steering (felt way too assisted and not natural), the compressed feeling of the cabin in the RF setting (very tight seats, and no true convertible vibe as weird as that may be), and an overall true roadster "vibe" while driving. I then purchased a 2011 NC special edition hardtop with less than 20k miles a few months later, and fell instantly back in love with the car. I know it sounds weird to think the most current iteration of a model isn't the best, but for me it isn't. The NC is my choice hands down, and an excellent example of how a true rear wheel drive roadster should drive, react and feel, not to mention I really like the styling and lines of this one...again, my thoughts and tastes...yours may vary. Good luck and I hope you enjoy whatever you decide on.
Almost bought a boxster or a Z4. But after driving the Miata and the visceral feeling it gave me during the road test. I couldn’t give it back to the dealer. I went home with it, an hour later. Now, I can’t stop driving it
Test drove a 2023 MX-5 a few months ago and fell in love with it. I had been considering a C4 or C5 vette but realized prices for both of those are nearly the same as a base model MX-5 so decided to give on a try, mostly to see if I could fit in it, to get a "modern" car. Glad I did and when the 2024 model comes out I will be waiting in line for it. I've actually always had really basic cars, off-roaders from the 90's and earlier, and my daily driver 2005 Toyota Matrix is a base model manual with zero power anything (no ABS, no traction control, no A/C, no cruise control, nothing). The ND seemed like the perfect upgrade for a summer ride that brought all the modern stuff I wanted but keeping it simple, and not too much car that I couldn't drive it every day.
I'm 37 years old and have been a car enthusiast from when I first saw a Ferrari Testarossa on the road as a 8 year old kid. Drove over 50+ different sports cars which I could never own, always either borrowed or rented as I live in the Balkans (basically the ghetto of Europe). Seeing all my youth dream "affordable" cars like S2000, Z4M and 987.2 Boxsters/Caymans costing more than my 2-3+ yearly salary, new "affordable" sports cars like MX-5 costing 35k+ € upwards and seeing the direction where the industry is going, I've become completely disillusioned and finally decided to go to motorbikes and just look at cars as commodity, like a washing machine. And I am not the only one.
I've driven a whole lot of sports cars over the decades, and done my share of trackdays. As far as a street car that just spoke to me and I wish I could get back was my stock '98 ITR, well except for some Mugen shift bushings. I ended up selling it for an S2K, and I want my ITR back!
A two-wheel equivalent, in my limited experience, was the Yamaha FZR 400. I bought one to race, but had it on the street for a few months and it was more fun than any bike I’ve owned before or since. Dry weight 346 pounds, outstanding suspension and geometry for its era, and a willing 399 cc DOHC I-4 that made 59 hp at 11,500 rpm. Every ride was like the Grand Prix of your home town but at misdemeanor rather than felonious speeds.
I own a nd2 and used to own a 90' cb1. And you are 100% correct. Sure the feeling is insane when you go flat out on a 1000cc sportsbike, but when can you even remotely safely do? One day ill buy another little 400cc screamer!
Inline 4 bikes are just pure art, I have a Z900 and its the most perfect thing in the world, faster than 99% of anything on the road but naked + short gearing, so you can feel the speed and bang a couple of gears in a quick run. My commutes to work are not a chore, but a fun time
well as long as you sold it to somone who will have it last long and pass it one to another person like that, its helping create more demand for the at least few who will end up buying and spreading such ideas for cars fo the future.
Great video! I love all of your videos but your Miata documentary series was the biggest factor in my choosing a new soft-top, stick shift as my very first new car at the age of 55. I've loved this car so much. Everything you say is true but let's not forget, it's also a convertible! It's so delightful to drop the top on a back road on a beautiful day or evening. This is one of the most enjoyable, well-designed cars ever. Thank you for what you do.
My girlfriend uses one of these as her daily driver. For everything. Does 200 mile trips i it, carries junk back from the store in it (with the roof down sometimes for infinite headroom). She loves it. It's also more appropriate as we live in the UK, where people don't do that US thing of always needing to carry or tow insane amounts of "stuff" with them. Thread her little MX-5 down a tight, windy, bumpy, B road and you know what's up. These things are epic.
They are pretty much the ideal car for rural or semi-rural living if you don't need to carry a bunch of stuff or passengers yeah. They're the right size for our B-Roads, easy to park, economical, and because they're softly sprung they deal with the atrocious state of our roads pretty well. If I didn't have to occasionally carry multiple people or move stuff I'd definitely be looking to buy one!
"In 20 years..." This is how I feel about my NC1! What a great little go-kart, at a steal of a deal. It's almost criminal how cheap you can get an NC for against how much fun it provides. Not to mention, reliable af!
I truly miss my s2k cr and the jdm Cars that I had in the past. But the s2k changed everything for me in what I want in a car. Most people will never understand because they don't actually enjoy pure driving experience. To them 0-60 times equals fun and thats it and they miss the part of actually being in control and driving a car. Every car made today is just numb and boring and over engineered for no reason, no matter if it's an suv, sedan, or any sport related vehicle. Its a very sad story.😊
This is one of the many reasons why I bought an AE86 to restore. I want to have that connected, raw experience of a no strings attached sports car. It sucks to see our favorite automakers refuse or ignore what enthusiasts want most.
Agree with everything here, I've had my '23 RF Club for just over 1000mi now and it is just wonderful. I look forward to every drive, even looking for excuses. It fits me as a daily driver (there are situations where its nice to have a fiance with a cx30 though). Hell, I can even fit my keys/wallet in the center console! Best car on the market.
Great video, as always. I'm already smiling ear to ear in my 2020 RF GTS, and I drive it every day! If you don't have kids and/or your partner has a larger car like a CUV or SUV there's absolutely no reason the ND can't be a daily driver.
Solid driver’s car. I really wish the major brands would take a huge step forward, by looking back. Use Singer as inspiration. Small to moderate displacement, naturally aspirated, high revving, manual trans, analogue gauges, and minimal interior. The only electronics you really need are the ignition.
Thinking the Miata must be a second car is a frame of mind not a fact. It’s been my daily driver since 1990. We had three kids and in the middle of those child rearing years I had a sedan. The last one was a Lexus LS. My wife drove SUVs which we used for vacations. 99% of the time the number of people in my daily driver were the same, 1. Regardless of the size of the car, I was in it by myself which is the norm for most of us. I rode in a Triumph when I was in college, owned one soon after, and have understood what a light weight roadster was all about every since. My daily driver makes me smile. To me, the ND is so different from previous versions that it should have a different name. It’s the first that could become a classic. I think it has timeless beauty. The Jaguar and a couple of the Ferrari’s are the only better looking cars. It looks like a baby Jag. But, it drives better, except for that V-8 sound. The induction sounds are great in the ND but it isn’t as great as the sound of the Jag or the LC 500. Compared to a Miata everything else feels like a buss.
I'm saving up for an ND2, and I currently drive a 2014 kia optima LX, and my previous (and first) car was a 2001 chrysler 300m, which had an ANEMIC 200hp v6 in a 4500 pound boat. The Kia is far faster than the chrysler, and the mx-5 comparatively is LIGHTNING fast. Can't wait to own it.
They’re fantastic cars. I have a manual 718 GT4 and it’s parked next to a NC2. The Miata for me is the more enjoyable street car with the top down. Likely harder choice for you.
My first car was an NA and I had it for over a decade and 225k epic miles. Then went to a 911 and now a Spyder (have both). Need a bigger garage! That tells you how good these Miata’s are.
I drove one years ago (2nd gen) when manufacturers used to have these roadshows where you could autocross these (AMG used to do them a ton as well) and loved it. But didn't have the money for one then.
"I have a 718 Spyder manual and still want a ND2." Can you elaborate on your reasons why? Would your answer change if you had a standard 718 or a 718 S? My reason for asking is because I'm cross shopping and the practicality of the 718's storage is weighing in as a factor. Thank you.
I don't understand how this channel doesn't have already over 1M subs, there are other car reviewers out there that don't provide half the quality content as these guys, and yet they have much more subscribers.
Wow.. Your final rant really resonated with where I'm at with cars. Have just traded in my C43 AMG and bought a 1.5 Kizuna MX5 and absolutely loving driving again.
Completely agree with your final thoughts. Idk how people are finding 30, 40, 50k dollar vehicles "affordable" I make a decent living and can't come close.
Original owner of a 2019 Club with Brembo/BBS/Recaro package. I'm happy to see that Mazda is getting recognized for making a quality product for the masses. Attributes I Love: - One of the best 6-speed manual transmissions - ever. Clutch and manual transmission are a good, effective pairing. - An actual normally aspirated high revving engine with real cam covers and no plastic cover. - Low Weight - amazing in this day and age. - Build quality and reliability - low cost to own and maintain. Use of aluminum parts. Amazing Soul Red Crystal paint. - Styling is aging well. - Simple, effective, attractive, well laid out analog gauge cluster. - Great platform for OEM+ modifications (suspension, exhaust, brakes, etc). I have wrenched my own upgrades. Transforms the car and eliminates the excessive body roll from the factory. Upgraded exhaust adds to the enjoyment of the drive. Wider wheels and lower stance really enhance exterior look of the car. - Miata heritage. Great to see the tradition of the original NA carried forward. - Simple soft top with heated glass rear window. - Availability of Brembo/BBS/Recaro package. - Minimum tech - just enough to function in the 21st century, but not distract from the drive. Attributes I Don't' Love: - Wind noise over 65 mph with top up. Soft top needs at least one more layer of insulation. - Electronic throttle - built in lag. Aftermarket throttle enhancers help. - Lack of Interior space needs to be improved - even if just slightly. If you ever get a chance, drive a well done OEM+ version - you will be surprised by the performance and handling - very fun driving experience.
5:43 Thats something i like about the current WRX. Its not isolated or smoothed out, the cowel shakes at speed giving you this feeling the entire car is going to fly apart the faster you go and it adds to the sensation. Meanwhile my LC500 does the same speed and its like I'm in first class. No big deal. And ppl give the current WRX sht for the cowel shaking at speed. THATS A FEATURE not a bug.
Compare the specs of an iconic 1970 Porsche 911S to the ND2 - the Miata has one more horsepower at the same redline, about an inch more wheelbase, weighs about sixty pounds more and better brakes. I went from owning several different Porsches (and many other makes) to a 30AE ND2 because for 1/2 the cost of a Boxster its so damn much fun. We rented an ND while we were out in Monterey for car week a few years ago - I bought a Miata a few months later. One of the best things about a Miata is it reminds me of the best of the sports cars of the sixties like my dad's old Alfa Romeo that was the first car I ever drove.
Got my ND2 3 years ago and have daily driven it since. I've put 60,000 miles on it in that time. Taken several road trips of 2000+ miles and she has never missed a beat. I fall a little bit more in love with her every time I drive. Even if it's just going to work or the grocery store. It's a perfect car in so many ways and beautifully flawed in others. It's just the right amount of car for me. I don't need to bring all of my friends along with me. I don't need to take up an insane amount of lane space when it's just me. I do however wish I had more storage options, but I still get along just fine.
The Miata is now rare for what once was common; simple well designed and modest fun. Mazda does more with the less in the Miata than many companies do with the awe of greater. They prioritized to a full degree this style of car, and never compromised.
I drove a RF Club trim a few years ago when I was looking for sports car. I love their shift in the gearbox to 1:1 in 6th. This close ratio layout is one of the best decisions they made. It made the car an activity. Even on a 30mph side road, you're rowing through the gears. The ND looks good, feels good, feels solid, and the Club setup is relatively stiff and well damped for an oem setup. The engine feels adequate and refined. It also feels enough, plenty. Comparatively, the OG NA Miata is almost toy-like in every metric. The only real fault of the car is the absolutely dead steering. It's just really weird to have in a dedicated sports cars, especially when you can buy full size sedans and pickup trucks today with more feel. It's just a weird thing. I agree the ND Miata is a special thing. It's highly polished and refined. It's highly optimized to its function. While some may praise the OG NA, those feel toy-like in comparison. The ND is now a substantial object. Vehicles with pure sense of purpose stand out, and they kind of glow against the sea of other vehicles. They also do appear timeless specifically because there aren't comparables or true successors. The S2000 feels like this. The Viper feels like this. Heck, even a gen 1 Dodge minivan feels like this. These cars feel like a nearly perfect representation and execution of an idea, and they stand on their own merit for it. I have bought a couple sports cars since my test drive. Unfortunately I never did buy a ND Miata. There were other things that interested me more, one with the same DNA and the other I feel is the grown up version of the Miata. To me, the RX8 is a more interesting car, not as fun stock, but scales well with mods. The other was an old E85 Z4. The Z4 feels like a matured Miata in size, refinement, and power. It has the classic roadster feel too, even more so in my opinion. Both are choices of personal preference, certainly, but both are also unique time capsules too. The RX8 is the last rotary. The Z4, at least the E85/E86 is the last naturally aspirated inline 6.
Some time ago I heard a comment about the miata: "it begs to be driven" Within a year I finally picked one up. Almost 2 years later and I love it more each time I drive it
As usual Mark is spot on here. Such a fun car. I own a ND2 Club (soft top) and it's always a blast to drive. I previously owned a super-charged Lotus Elise. The Elise was definitely faster but it wasn't anymore fun than the MX5 to drive (it was more fun at cars n coffee type events of course but owning and driving one required lots of comprises compared to even the MX5).
I've always wanted an Elise. Tell me more about your trade reasons. I own a boosted NB miata. If a trade opportunity arrives, I want to know why it's a bad idea.
@@christopherlowery855 Its really about what you are looking for in a car. The Elise was way more raw - faster, louder and more tactile. It garnered much more attention which I loved. For me though, being 50 years old now and living in Florida, some of the cons were the air conditioning only worked for about 15 minutes, the lack of power steering was fun while driving but less fun while trying to pull out of my garage and parking spots, it had large blind spots especially while backing up (could've been mitigated with a rear camera) and it was very low to the ground which made pulling into parking lots and such a bit stressful and difficult. Ultimately I decided to sell because the A/C was terrible and I got tired of sweating to death after car shows and drives, I was terrified that the clam would be damaged, I didn't know of any trusted shops around that I could have any work done at if I needed anything done (I am not very mechanically inclined - and I don't have the right tools and low profile jack etc) and the price/value kept going up on a car I barely drove (I drove mine for 2 years and made decent money on sale which was ideal since my daughter just started college). So if you are handy, don't care about the lack of safety features and A/C and are not the sort that worries about someone damaging your car or running up the miles then the Elise/Exige are awesome. For me though the Miata while a bit slower is way more comfortable, almost as much fun and waay less worriesome/nerve racking. Also the Miata 'community' is much bigger and active than the Lotus one. Really you cant go wrong either way though. Both are amazing cars.
@@markfinnegan6038 Oh wow, thank you for the detailed reply. None of those things I really care about. My miata has an AC, but I drive without it because the car dies when I drive with it on. I also love driving with the windows down. I need a remote wire installed from the AC to the ECU, which I just need to do. I've driven a civic without PWS and the early miatas had PWS as an option. I can live without it. As for the rear visibility, I used to drive tractor trailers. We only have side mirrors to work with. That shohldn't be too much of an issue. As for the mechanic work, I do all the upgrades and mechanic work on my car. I outsource welding and pipe bending, but anything bolt-on I'll do. My car has 3" of ground clearance and I do have a low profile jack. I agree with you about not trusting people. Price and quality work are the two reasons I do the work myself. The work I'm not a fan of, just the results. Sounds like I could easily live with all of your cons. If I ever get rid of this car, an Elise looks like a good upgrade for me. Thanks again for the insight.
THANK YOU for making this. This was an absolute joy to watch. My previous car was a 2017 ND Miata, and I put 45,000 miles on it before I had to trade it in to get something that would fit both of my kids in it. That was about 2 years ago.....I drive an Elantra N now, and I love driving it, but there is NOTHING that will match the feel of driving an ND MX-5. I also love the point you made about having to get other cars up to insane/dangerous speeds to start "feeling something"....that's so true. I made the same observation after I got my Elantra N.... It's fun to drive, but in order to really feel something, I've gotta be in triple digits, which is just simply not smart. In my Miata, I could take a curve at 45mph and feel like I was taking a curve at 75mph. There's just nothing like it. One day, I'll get it again....as a second car--I hope before it's too late.
I got my '23 platinum quartz Club. Alignment was left zero toe and right was 1/16" in. It was twitchy. Now it's stable and snow tires for winter. I got an old 3/4 ton for hauling crap. *5'11" 265lbs. Worst is ducking the head getting in. Once in it feels like my old C4.
Looks are subjective of course but for me the ND Miata is the best looking Miata of all time inside and out. However when it comes to driving experience it lacks some steering feedback of the NA/NB Miata’s and that’s why I own an NB with a hard dog roll bar. Granted any Miata is a fantastic option for fun driving and that’s why we have 4 generations to choose from so we can find the one that matches what we are looking for most. Great video as always.
Gotta love how they went back to the basics with the ND. Back to light weight, simple design, fun first. Then, the ND2 refined the powerplant, which is what everyone asked for..
Agree with you 100%! I got my 2023 ND2 this month and couldn't be happier! I've always wanted a small sports car, and on the day I almost placed an order for a BMW M240i after test-driving a used one, I saw the Mazda dealership down the street and decided to try the Miata again. Man, the 2 series drives nothing like a Miata, and the driving engagement and agility are not even close. Bought the ND2 on the spot. For car enthusiasts, only a few brands fulfill what we want in driver's cars today: Mazda, Toyota (Supra and 86), BMW (older generations), Porsche, Lotus, and Alfa Romeo. That's not a lot of options, but thats also what makes each of these brands and cars so special!
Brought my new ND2 home yesterday and parked it in the garage for the first time. It's the first car I've owned and it makes me feel bittersweet - knowing that my first car is possibly the best one I will ever have owned.
Two years ago I wanted to purchase an ND2 Club. Did all my research on mods and upgrades. But at 6'2"s even with a seat lowering kit it was a no go...had the same issue with an S2000 back in the day.
I feel your pain. The Miata was my first choice, but had to go with the gr86 just so I could fit. Though I'm not regretting my choice at all. It is a lot fun too.
There are aftermarket seat rail kits that will drop the drivers seat down two inches and some weight at well. I am 6 feet and with the kit, I fit in mine with a helmet just fine.
Just picked up one of these, an RF Club. It is 100% a super super special car, truly a blast to drive. All of your comments in the vid are spot on - I just really appreciate the Mazda philosophy of "less is more". Nothing else out there can touch this for fun and just an intangible mechanical feel that puts a smile on your face. Thanks Mazda and SG!
Funny you bring this up, I bought myself a 2019 ND2 RF Miata in July 2023 and couldn't agree more with this review. I've owned many sports cars including a C7 corvette, nsx, Porsche boxster, Ariel atom, GR Corolla, STI and the Miata is one of my favorites. I love small, lightweight, nimble sports cars the best. Looking at getting a Kawasaki ZX-4RR in the spring. Love a high revving 16,000rpm inline 4 cylinder.
I've got a 2021 Club. The docu-series they put out awhile back was one big reason why I went with the ND2 over the 86. And these guys are right on the money with their review of the Miata. Fantastic small sports car, immensely enjoyable to drive even at slower speeds, great shifter feel, and a charismatic engine that's not very powerful but really wakes up and comes alive past 4k. Definitely a car designed for windy back roads, mountain passes, cruising down the beach, especially with the top down. Even with the club suspension setup, it's a car set up to be firm but comfortable for the daily drive, but playful in the corners. Yes, if you want a machine for the autox or track days, you'll need to do some work to it. But that's honestly true of all cars at this price point. But even then, you're a few upgrades away from having an amazing time on track.
Bought my ND2 last year for all the exact same reasons you guys mention in the video. I am a petrolhead and love all sort of cars but nothing compares to the joy of driving this simple, light and responsive roadster. I will keep it forever. When I spoke to the salesperson at Mazda he told me that he never has to sell these cars: they sell by themselves. You go for a test drive and then you just want one (happened to me). Well, to be honest I had an NB before. If you think this car is slow just check some YT videos of ND2s on the Nurburgring with good drivers at the wheel. It is a momentum car and you have to “earn speed”, but cornering is second to none. Cheers from Luxembourg.
I own a new Miata and all I can say is every time you drive this car it makes you feel like you are on a first date in high school except you actually know what you are doing.Nothing else matters you are in the moment with a partner that picked you to dance with.One of the best reviews on the Miata.
I have an ND1. It’s my first manual and first enthusiast car I’ve ever had. I’ve modified the suspension and brakes to my exact needs, but it doesn’t scratch one itch that won’t go away- it’s not a Porsche. the car doesn’t feel “cool” enough for me to want it over something else even if I enjoy the drive every single time. I think about how much time I spend looking at other people’s cars, and no one looking at mine. And it takes videos like this for that extra perspective, so maybe I can stop looking for whatever comes next, and just appreciate and enjoy what I have. Thank you.
This is a sign. I’ve been considering getting a Miata as my 2nd car. Thought about trading to replace the daily, but it just didn’t make sense with it being paid off. The other cars won’t provide extra $20-30k of fun. This is the best it gets.
I ordered and took delivery on one of the very first ND Clubs in September of 2015. In 8 years, I've put 48k on it and in that time, I've put oil in it, a battery, and a set of tires. That's it. Granted, I dropped it on coilovers and changed out some of the lighting, but it's been a perfect car. My overall average is 37mpg, but I can easily hit over 40mpg on trips if I pay attention. Sure, it's not 300 hp. But I compare these Mustangs and ZL1 Camaros and Red Eyes to grizzly bears. They make a lot of noise and can attack in short bursts. A Miata is like a honey badger. And honey badgers don't give a fuck. A Miata can use ALL of its go ALL of the time if you want. I was taking a friend somewhere and I took a 90 degree turn at about 7/10ths (for my comfort) and he said he was scared because he'd never taken a turn like that in any vehicle. "The end of the Miata" has been prophesized for 15 years. If Mazda ever announces that they really are done with it, I'll likely trade up to the very last model and keep it forever, to sit along side the 1990 NA that sits in my garage next to the current 2016. America, in general, doesn't know what driving is supposed to be. We've been told it needs to be an extension of our living room or office on wheels. Not for me. When I drive one of my Miatas, it's to specifically NOT be at home, comfortable in my recliner. The top is down, and the music is way too loud. I'll own a Miata until I can no longer physically get in and out of one.
My brother owns an ND2 and I have a GR86, we both love our cars and know we bought the right ones for us having driven both. I agree this will be a classic, it’s just not what I’m chasing in a driving experience
A good video with sensible dialogue. I am an Australian & have just bought a 2015 ND GT; WOW, what a beaut car. Too many presenters moan about the lack of horsepower & too little internal space, not to overlook the bloody cup holders. What is the obsession with North Americans & cup holders; who cares really. The MX5 is a usable daily drive but as a true sports car not an option for the typical family unit. I do not think it was ever meant to be that anyway. This car can only be graded/marked for what it is & not as a comparison to fire breathing V8's or typical family sedans etc. However, I find the power output more than adequate. I am 76 years old & 6'1" & have no issues with my aged frail body fitting in the car. I am a motorcycle rider of 60 years standing & believe that this car is the next best device. I have mentioned at another presenters site that 'WE' should all be extremely thankful that Mazda actually provides the MX5 with the variable fit- out options available. As a 'proper roadster' it has no opposition
You guys are right on except I daily mine. Have done it since new 4 years ago . Summer, winter ( with snow tires ) and every season in between . I live in Buffalo Ny , the land of snow storms. It’s my only car , it’s an RF club and has never let me down. It’s fun, it’s special, and I want a second one to store for when my current car is old and tired. Thank you SG and thanks mazda . I smile every day on every commute!
Awesome video! I was looking forward to it after Mark told me that they had an ND2 they were going to take another quick take on. Totally true on all points. And even if you do get Ohlins and stickier tires for track/autocross and the overall price gets pricier, there's always the factor that you may modify your SS 1LE or comparable car with that stuff anyhow. The core Miata traits of low consumable costs still survives after doing basic modifications. On my ND1, I have the SakeBomb Ohlins and a set of PS4S tires for my normal driving and then 225/45/17 RE-71R tires for autocross and the car is still teaching me new things as a driver I didn't know when I autocrossed my modified Mk5 GTI that is now just my 'rabbit hole modified' daily driver haha. Keep up the great videos Mark and Jack!
@@tludwig400 nice I have the other versions still with the spherical top hats but not the long travel versions. I run Swift 6kg/3kg springs. One day I’d love to get the Karcepts front ARB, but I still have room to improve as a driver so I want to do that first.
@@g60corrado91yep, I did the same top hats with spherical bearings and the same Swift springs. Those top hats make some noise from time to time, but otherwise love this setup. I intend to do sways as well, but I’ve been super busy the last couple of years and haven’t made the time to get to it.
I don’t think the NC with ever have the following that the other gens do. It’s started to become somewhat recognized for what it is but it’s just not going to be as beloved as the ND will be and already is.
Love your perspective on the industry in this video! Currently driving a 2001 sub-90,000 mile is300 and two 2013 MINI’s (Clubman S and 2-door S hardtop). The MOST fun I’ve had in a car in a long time!
Thank for your valuable insight. I’ve been wandering from Miata to Corvette (C7) to Mustang GT to BMW M240i to BMW M2 to Porsche 718 Cayman, and I’ve come full circle. I’m buying an ND2, or if it comes out before year’s end, the ND3. I don’t need the speed or the power: I just need a car that is fun to drive without needing to reach insane speeds.
All the makings of an enduring icon. Timeless design and performance that elicits pure joy. Thank you for all the kind words.
Thank you marketing team for your input 😂. Awesome car though genuinely
Don't stop making it
Make the rotary power the wheels one last time?
Any possibility of great cars without cameras, microphones, internet/cellular connections and just focus on making the best driving experience for under $23k instead of having something with more surveillance than most government buildings?
@@SimGuntherYeah, anything built before 2003. Or before 2008 if you avoid GM and OnStar.
Anything new with that criteria, not a chance. They're passing legislation in the US for every car made after 2026 to have a kill switch installed from factory. This is to "prevent dangerous car chases". Unfortunately, this train is traveling one way only. The only way to get back to the way things were is to go back in time. I feel your pain.
As an engineer and an owner of ND, I can confidently tell this is so well done that it hits and connects the engineering and driving halves of my heart.
Same here!
I’ve had (and still have) a number of other fun cars. I’m now on my 2nd Miata.
It’s the reference; Full-stop.
Engineers and their love for JDM exports 😂
@@good-tn9srwouldn't need to be JDM if anyone else built a car like this
@@papa_ptSo true.
I'm the son of a mechanical engineer. I can't design anything to save my life, but I can repair about anything mechanical. I can also look at anything and tell you if it's a good or bad design. During the 90s when this poor engineering trend started in the American market, the JDM market stepped up and almost replaced it. These days, just about everyone does the same type of engineering fails. Some just more than others. I really miss the days of the chevy 350 small block and the ford 289 windsor engines. Only a few vehicles have retained that type of simplicity. Here is one.
My backup vehicle is an 07 F150 with a pushrod 4.2L Essex engine and a 5spd manual. Besides the ATF being used as transmission fluid and the bloody clutch slave cylinder being inside the bell housing, the rest of the truck is pretty solid. You can't say the same about every other engine that came with that truck. This truck is just a rare example of one that didn't have an interior that fell apart, or an engine that isn't plagued with problems. It just works and is pretty easy to work on. If American manufacturers were focused on simplicity and function, JDM manufacturers wouldn't need to show them how it's done.
Being only 5’7’’ is rarely beneficial in life…until I bought a Miata.
I’m 6’1” and my wife didn’t understand why I’d buy a car I didn’t fit in. All good once I lowered the seats.
@@tludwig400 *tears fall one foot above*
Im 5’11 and just sold my Nd2 Rf because of this…
Fitting in it is one thing being comfortable is another
5’7” gang checking in. Waiting for the ND3 to come out maybe I can get a ND2 club for a discount…
@@DePancakeManif the ND3 is electric, i don’t think the ND2 will have much of a discount
Hi there from Germany. (Forgive my bad English) I have the ND (A) Sportsline (Bilstein-Chassis, 205/45/17), made 2016 (160 hp - with a little help from my friends: 174/5900 hp and 220/4000 Nm - it revs easily to 6500 rpm). It's my daily drive. I do not need any other car.
My wife and me we put a luggage rack on the trunk, with a good old leather-suitcase on it and do our 2-week-vacation throughout Europe.
I drive it in Winter. It is fantastic to drive with open roof trough a snowy landscape in the sun.
I drive it in the Citiy and for business travels. Doesn't matter if it is citystreets, autobahn (chasing SUV's) or country roads.
I can say: I'm blessed with this car. It allways gives good feelings - becaus it is so "direct" - in german we say: "unmittelbar". You hear the Transmission when it becomes warm. You feel the road in your butt. You feel the vibrations of the chassis.
And - most importantly - it does, what you feel: The Moment you think "steer right" it does it (trogh your hands). You think "shift the next gear" - it does it (throgh your hand).
I believe, I can shift faster from 1rst through to 6th gear, than a automatic dual-clutch transmission, because the ways of the shifter are short an the clutch-pedal is .... it is...oooh.... it just is....you know? .
You can turn mostly every corner in a right angle (with the Bilstein chassis).
And it is faster, than it is 🙂. On the Autobahn at 130 kmh (80 mph) you only talk, if you have to. At 160 kmh (100 mph) you will not talk. Becaus it is loud (the nice loud) and it feels much faster. At 200 kmh (125 mph) - just before you shift into 6th - you feel like you will not come back alive.
I chased an SUV the other day. 10 minutes at 220 kmh (137 mph) in slipstream. After that, I was smiling the rest of the day. I was high - because I was still living an I had been lightspeed-fast.
It is 6 years in my hand now. 82.000 km (51.000 mls). I will drive it till I can not get in and out anymore. I hope this will be in more than 20 years (I'm 56 now 🙂the children have their own cars). Then I will inherit it to my Grandson.
(just for interest: the fuel-consumption is 6,82 l/100 km since 82.000 km.)
Thanks for this great video, that reminded me how lucky I am
Twenty years from now I'll be ninety, and hopefully I'll still be driving my 2019 ND2... and my 1997 NA. Thanks for another great video.
Great choice of vehicles, so cool
Twenty years from now I'll be 70 and hopefully I'll still be alive. LOL Seriously though, I'll for sure still have my Miata.
20 years from now I’ll be 78 and hopefully I’ll still be autocrossing mine
I don't own a miata, I have an mr2 that hopefully in 20 years, when I'll be 54, I'll still be driving it. Little 2 seats old cars are truly something special.
@@WarCry389 I've always loved the second gen MR2. Incredible looking cars.
After watching your documentary on the miata, it has EASILY become one of my all time favourite cars. The amount of engineering thought, and focused commitment to a vision that went into this car is literally unavailable anywhere, until you get into unobtainium supercars.
Mark in the end put into words EXACTLY what my thoughts are. He pretty much nailed everything I wanted to say, but more eloquently lmao. I can tell he loves this car :D
In the video, they mentioned having to spend much more money for a better or similar driving experience elsewhere. But for shear driving satisfaction, I don’t think there is a better option at any price.
When you get into hyper expensive sports cars, like the 911’s of the world, you’re back to the ‘too powerful, too heavy’ scenario. There’s no other sports car today that is so entirely usable, on the street or track.
Your videos put me in a ND1. Got a used 2016 at the end of 2019 with 25k miles for $19,000 and it has been a great car to learn to drive in. Just yesterday my daughter and I put new coilovers and sway bars in and hung out for hours in the garage together. We have done autocross together and In 5 years when she can legally drive I have no doubt she will steal my car. Oh well, guess I’ll need to get another Miata.
Amazing story, thanks for sharing
That's awesome. My daughters never caught the bug. I wish they had . . . but at least they can both drive a manual. :)
Just make sure your next Miata is a stick 😊
The video absolutely nails everything and he’s absolutely right. 20 years from now, when every single car 6000 pound car is doing 0-60 in 2.Something seconds, we will be clawing to buy and keep these lightweight, affordable machines that were actually made for ‘driving’.
Hell I already am.
Dang there’s been a bunch of good Miata content on RUclips recently with vids by Engineering Explained and Jason Cammisa. Man I feel like it’s my next ride
You won’t regret it.
Get one before the refresh comes with all the safety garbage
@@fortheloveofnoise any GT since like 2019 already has plenty of “safety garbage”, what are you on about? The main thing changing for 2024 is the addition of adaptive cruise control, that thing most people like.
I want to so badly, but the practicality part is the deterrent. I don't have money for a 2nd car. 😔
@@thatoneotherotherguy I was about to post this. Basically 2024 is a mild exterior change, lights to LED, a better rear view mirror, better infotainment system, and adapative cruise control and we have no idea if this will be on all trims. The fancy stuff, like the motion headlights, was all reserved for the top tier but one could still get a bare bones base model. I wouldn't surprised if this is the case for Adaptive cruiser control.
When I got my RF Club this summer I drove it 1500 miles straight from Boston to Charleston. 16 Hours straight, I'm 6'1" and I was comfortable the whole time. I fit my duffle bag and skateboard and sleeping bag in the little trunk. I took my sister out to dinner and talked to a guy with a hardtop C8, who was also from MA and he was just as interested in my car as I was in his. On the way home I did the whole 16 hours top down. I was on the George Washington Bridge in NY at 1 am with a couple hundred tractor trailers; ok that was bad. I think my point is this car is special at the intangibles too. It can do a lot more than people expect and give you an experience while doing it. I'm gonna keep this car forever and give it to my kids when I die.
Thinking about keeping forever my ND3 mx-5 too. Problem is, in 20 years gasoline maybe won't be available anymore.
Are you sure that you are 6-1 because I am shorter by few inches and I am at the limit of fit for height?
@@edwardlacika3022 haha yes I am sure of my own height. Have you tried sitting in one? My head doesn't hit it's just close; it'll touch with a helmet. Unless you have a crazy long torso you should be fine.
ruclips.net/video/V0TdtjCOxhA/видео.html
6' (lotta leg) and did a happy six-hour drive from south of France to Italy. Never thought twice about it...
My last sports car was an Audi TT RS. Great car, very fast -- but on public roads it was boring unless it was going way too fast. The Miata is fun at ANY speed, that's what makes it so amazing!
What was the slowest you have driven in it and bad fun fun?
I have watched this review five or six times and have been dreaming of a Miata for a decade. I finally ordered one from the factory yesterday. Thank you for all you’ve done to document this amazing vehicle.
Love this. Congrats! There are some 2023’s on sale in my area. Considering fulfilling the dream this weekend.
What did you pay out the door cowboy?
@@TapTwoCounterspell I just recently picked up the car and paid a hair north of 30k. I bought a base model with only three options, the roadside assistance kit, the metal pedal kit, and wheel locks. It's been awesome so far. Only thing that I have to say is that living in the north and this being my daily, I am going to have to get winter wheels & tires and rust proof the car before this winter.
@@brianbeedavis If you have the means, do it and don't think twice!
I actually went and bought a used Miata and it’s now the benchmark for me of what a good sports car is. Thank you so much for turning me on to this amazing vehicle and for ruining me for all other sports cars. 😂
I finally bite the bullet and purchased an ND2 recently, and this video really helps underscores why this car is so important. It's just hard to see how something like this can ever be made again without some compromises for "modern car buyers".
I never got the whole “slower cars are fun” thing until I drove a 2013 Civic Si for the first time in years. At the time, I owned a modded Stinger which could do illegal speeds very quickly and without you even feeling like you were going that fast. I was revving out the Si, changing gears feeling like I was flying and we were going 45. It made me definitely want something more like that as a fun car.
ahaha yeah, when I test drove an ND2, my gf took a turn and I was like "woah hey let's not get too crazy, the speed limit here is only 40mph" then I looked at the dash and it was like 35mph lol
By contrast, my previous car was a WRX and that was a blast to drive but only at around 80mph and I racked up a lot of tickets really fast. And my gf's car is a tesla, which puts both to shame in raw numbers but is incredibly boring to drive.
@@emissarygw2264 yeah I can’t get into electric cars, it’s cliche but they really have no soul. Like I really appreciate the technology and I’m impressed by them but they just feel like tools. Now I drive a 2023 IS500 and I love it so much. I’m a car hopper but I have no desire to sell this thing.
Another greeting from Germany. I think you hit the nail on the head with this review. I got my ND2 in March of 22. I had rented a couple before, on anniversaries and such. First, an RF, then in 2021, a soft top. We had it for 5 days and put 2000 kms on it. My wife had a smile on her face the whole time. After that, she said, "Yeah, we can get one of these". That was in the Fall of 21 and we had ours a few months later. I had to drive 3 hours to get one in blue, but it was so worth it. Im lucky that it doesn't have to be my daily driver, but during the Summer, we were taking it out almost every weekend. So much fun to drive. My wife and i took it to Normandy last year for 5 days and it was perfectly fine for a trip like that. Autobahn/highway driving can be a little boring, but that's the case with a lot of cars. My son and i really put it thru it's paces this past July when we drove it thru Lichtenstein, Austria, Italy and Switzerland. Again, a 5 day trip, and 1700 kms. We drove it on the Stelvio Pass and the Furka Pass, as well as many others, and it performed incredibly well. So much fun. I'm 62, 5'10", 200lbs. It's not a perfect fit for me, but that's my fault and can be rectified. I drove a rented Jag F-Type in the states in 2019. It was a lot of fun, and i fit in it better, but not practical pricce wise. I prefer my little MX-5 Go-Kart. Best car purchase I've ever made, for my well-being and mental health. Thank you for the review, even though i didn't need it to convince me that this is a great car.
Well said! High horsepower is flashy but it wears off quick. Lower horsepower with a well tuned chassis that dances with you at street speeds is a magic I didn’t understand until I matured past the flash.
It's almost like Colin Chapman knew a thing or two about cars.
@@EvoraGT430one or two, at most 😬
There is so much to be said about a light, low HP vehicle. You won't win any races at lights but that isn't what driving is about. The guys in their Golf R's and V8 Hemi's are miserable souls that need the HP to prove something to themselves, whatever that is, by winning acceleration at lights and going to a big circle jerk at Chili's.
Meanwhile you have these old-world approaches to a drivers car that Mazda (and once upon a time, Ford with the Escort RS\Focus SVT\ST, GM with the Solstice\Sky, Toyota with the MR2, Nissan with the 240SX, Honda with the Prelude\Del Sol, and even BMW with the Z3) believe in. An car focused on one thing above all else: an approachable, unique connection between car and driver. There are always sacrifices when your focus as a designer is to make one thing 110%, but if you pull off that 110%, it's worth it.
My friends couldn’t believe but I just made a deal to trade my ZL1 for a Miata. Oh well, it’s my life and I’m looking for the most fun.
@@emotionz3don't forget the MG sports cars, as an influence to Mazda. The reviews of the MX5 (Miata) are overwhelmingly good, hopefully my next car.
Miata is always the answer. You don't need and cannot use a 500 hp two tonne car with carbon brakes, indeed.
But you CAN use a 500 hp 1.1 ton car #lsSwapTheWorld
Exactly. Living in the NY area it’s funny watching these high performance cars either sitting in bumper to bumper traffic, stuck behind endless SUVs or taking it easy due to the poor quality roads. Simple is better.
There’s a guy in my area running a simple lawn care business with his. Dude has a trailer with a ride on mower and a few other tools and goes around doing lawns. It’s funny seeing’s him next to a giant F150 that’s hauling the same stuff lol
it's the answer if you're 4 feet tall 12lbs
Not everyone lives in a shit hole city.....
I love all the Miata content coming from all of the good Auto RUclips channels recently! I’ll say it again, after having a bunch of cars, the Miata is something I always come back to. I’ll always keep one in the garage.
Nothing better than having an SG video praising the car I drive most days. I love my Soul Red Crystal ND2 RF Club. Everything you want. Nothing you don't.
I recently bought an ND2 last week. It's amazing, automotive therapy even.
And I agree with the point, even though they're not that rare, it's very difficult to find an analogue n/a and lightweight car like this being produced today. Everything is turbo or hybrid now, so yeah the mx5 nd definitely a future classic imo. I also think the new mx5 concept being electric is good news for an Nd owner, these will be sought after in a few years.
I had a 2017 RF and loved it. It was my "summer" car alongside a Focus ST. I loved the ND and it completely wrecked my confidence in driving the ST, just from the direct control the ND gave me. I felt like I was actually integral to the driving experience. Everything else I drive I feel like I'm just there directing or watching the car do the things I tell it.
There really isn't a good way to describe it. You've either driven one, or you haven't. Once you do, you instantly understand.
I own a nicely modified ND2 (springs, sway bars, chassis bracing, wheels/tires, etc) and a Mk7 Golf R. I'm not sure I agree or even understand the notion that the ND "completely wrecked" your confidence when driving the ST.
@@axledog7297 when I drove thr ND, it was like an extension of my body. I had confidence in the way the car moved and responded to inputs. When I went back to the Focus, I realized that the feedback and information I got from the ND was missing, and I didn't feel as confident with the car.
My ND was bone stock and the Focus has some very light modifications.
When driving the ND: "oh, this is what great handling feels like."
When driving the ST: "oh, that's what torque feels like."
Maybe a slight exaggeration... The ND felt like a tight driving glove, the Focus felt like a ski glove.
This is the way it's always been. Riding in one is not good enough. Drive one. Once you spend 10 minutes driving a Miata, you get it. Because you actually get to DRIVE a Miata, not just be behind the wheel while it's going. Top down, tearing through gears.
@@axledog7297 it should be pretty obvious going from something as connected as a Miata to something as numb and isolated as a VW.
What happened to it?
I got a 2023 G70 recently and, while I love it for the plush twin-turbo paddle-shifted rocket-barge that it is, it makes me appreciate my 2008 manual MX5 even more than before too. The contrast between the two really is "another planet".
I thought I'd never enjoy street driving again until I got a ND2 this year. It's easy to live with on track too. You need to do some minor upgrades (tires, brake pads, and fluid, like most cars) but it doesn't overheat, the brakes don't fade, and the tires don't get greasy.
I also have an nd2, and brake fluid is a must if you track it. I managed to cook both it and the pads on a (really) twisty road. Also if the roads are rough in your area, id argue you must change the tires. The stockers have insanely stiff sidewalls that shakes your bones to death.
@@crottemolewhat tires would you recommend?
I have a 2019 RF Club and find the ride quite harsh?
Would you go for a slightly wider and taller tire?
@@dougmaverick3287 Michellin Pilot Sport 4 have been great.
@@dougmaverick3287: If you’re in a climate where you can use Summer tires all year (or will switch to snow-rated tires when needed), the latest versions of either Continental Extreme Contact Sport or Michelin Pilot Sport are the best street tires for the ND.
If you have an ND with 17” wheels, the stock tire size is 205x45 R17, but those wheels can easily accommodate 215x45 R17, which will give you a slightly wider track (more grip) and slightly taller sidewall (more comfort).
In my experience, the Contis are a bit quieter and more comfortable, while the Michelins provide a bit sharper steering and a little more dry weather grip. They both greatly increase wet-weather grip, with the Contis having a slight advantage. Either are miles ahead of the stock Bridgestones in both comfort and handling.
I watched an interview with Dave Coleman where he said the ND engine was designed to maintain good oiling throughout at cornering in excess of 1g. Who does that?
I've owned the NA, NC & ND, and with each and every drive I park and feel as if I've been on a great experience whilst behind the wheel of these magnificent cars. Pound for pound and dollar for dollar nothing can compare to the pure driving exhilerance and natural fun they offer. Kudos to you gents on telling it like it is and the great videos. Cheers!
What do you think of NC vs ND. I’m debating between the two for my next car.
@@jonathanrobinson592 I purchased the ND RF and drove it for 6 months, and ultimately sold it. What I didn't like was the steering (felt way too assisted and not natural), the compressed feeling of the cabin in the RF setting (very tight seats, and no true convertible vibe as weird as that may be), and an overall true roadster "vibe" while driving. I then purchased a 2011 NC special edition hardtop with less than 20k miles a few months later, and fell instantly back in love with the car. I know it sounds weird to think the most current iteration of a model isn't the best, but for me it isn't. The NC is my choice hands down, and an excellent example of how a true rear wheel drive roadster should drive, react and feel, not to mention I really like the styling and lines of this one...again, my thoughts and tastes...yours may vary. Good luck and I hope you enjoy whatever you decide on.
Almost bought a boxster or a Z4. But after driving the Miata and the visceral feeling it gave me during the road test. I couldn’t give it back to the dealer. I went home with it, an hour later. Now, I can’t stop driving it
Test drove a 2023 MX-5 a few months ago and fell in love with it. I had been considering a C4 or C5 vette but realized prices for both of those are nearly the same as a base model MX-5 so decided to give on a try, mostly to see if I could fit in it, to get a "modern" car. Glad I did and when the 2024 model comes out I will be waiting in line for it.
I've actually always had really basic cars, off-roaders from the 90's and earlier, and my daily driver 2005 Toyota Matrix is a base model manual with zero power anything (no ABS, no traction control, no A/C, no cruise control, nothing). The ND seemed like the perfect upgrade for a summer ride that brought all the modern stuff I wanted but keeping it simple, and not too much car that I couldn't drive it every day.
Blown away by your videos. Great content, combined with sensible, rational explanations. Excellent job.
I'm 37 years old and have been a car enthusiast from when I first saw a Ferrari Testarossa on the road as a 8 year old kid. Drove over 50+ different sports cars which I could never own, always either borrowed or rented as I live in the Balkans (basically the ghetto of Europe). Seeing all my youth dream "affordable" cars like S2000, Z4M and 987.2 Boxsters/Caymans costing more than my 2-3+ yearly salary, new "affordable" sports cars like MX-5 costing 35k+ € upwards and seeing the direction where the industry is going, I've become completely disillusioned and finally decided to go to motorbikes and just look at cars as commodity, like a washing machine. And I am not the only one.
Sad, but true, Brother. Sad but VERY true. 😢
Most of the 90s sporting cars had that intangible. My 1998 Civic DX Hatch was my most connected car I've ever owned. We've regressed.
80s-90s was peak motoring, especially in Japan
80-90s was peak Japan to be fair. If you take inflation away they are doing worse now than then.
I've driven a whole lot of sports cars over the decades, and done my share of trackdays. As far as a street car that just spoke to me and I wish I could get back was my stock '98 ITR, well except for some Mugen shift bushings. I ended up selling it for an S2K, and I want my ITR back!
You should have driven the 2000 lb CRX Si, back in the 80s, that and the RX7 were tons of fun.
bUt EvS aRe ThE fUtuRe!
A two-wheel equivalent, in my limited experience, was the Yamaha FZR 400. I bought one to race, but had it on the street for a few months and it was more fun than any bike I’ve owned before or since. Dry weight 346 pounds, outstanding suspension and geometry for its era, and a willing 399 cc DOHC I-4 that made 59 hp at 11,500 rpm. Every ride was like the Grand Prix of your home town but at misdemeanor rather than felonious speeds.
I own a nd2 and used to own a 90' cb1. And you are 100% correct. Sure the feeling is insane when you go flat out on a 1000cc sportsbike, but when can you even remotely safely do? One day ill buy another little 400cc screamer!
Inline 4 bikes are just pure art, I have a Z900 and its the most perfect thing in the world, faster than 99% of anything on the road but naked + short gearing, so you can feel the speed and bang a couple of gears in a quick run. My commutes to work are not a chore, but a fun time
I have a Suzuki SV650 - people refer to it as the Miata of motorcycles.
You're making me regret selling mine last weekend 😢
gosh darnit
You should lol
What did you buy?
Okay, but what did you replace it with?
well as long as you sold it to somone who will have it last long and pass it one to another person like that, its helping create more demand for the at least few who will end up buying and spreading such ideas for cars fo the future.
Great video! I love all of your videos but your Miata documentary series was the biggest factor in my choosing a new soft-top, stick shift as my very first new car at the age of 55. I've loved this car so much. Everything you say is true but let's not forget, it's also a convertible! It's so delightful to drop the top on a back road on a beautiful day or evening. This is one of the most enjoyable, well-designed cars ever. Thank you for what you do.
Just look at the smiles on both the driver and the passenger… it summed it all up about the ND2.
Great video! I have a ‘91 NA that I bought new in September 1991 and I still love to drive it. It’s a classic to me.
Really enjoyed this video guys. Thank you so much as an existing ND2 owner, I couldn’t have said it better!
My girlfriend uses one of these as her daily driver. For everything. Does 200 mile trips i it, carries junk back from the store in it (with the roof down sometimes for infinite headroom). She loves it. It's also more appropriate as we live in the UK, where people don't do that US thing of always needing to carry or tow insane amounts of "stuff" with them. Thread her little MX-5 down a tight, windy, bumpy, B road and you know what's up. These things are epic.
They are pretty much the ideal car for rural or semi-rural living if you don't need to carry a bunch of stuff or passengers yeah. They're the right size for our B-Roads, easy to park, economical, and because they're softly sprung they deal with the atrocious state of our roads pretty well. If I didn't have to occasionally carry multiple people or move stuff I'd definitely be looking to buy one!
The state of cars makes me very sad, but videos like these make me feel like I’m not alone atleast
"In 20 years..." This is how I feel about my NC1! What a great little go-kart, at a steal of a deal. It's almost criminal how cheap you can get an NC for against how much fun it provides. Not to mention, reliable af!
I bought an ND2 because of you Mark! Absolutely love it, puts a smile on my face everyday~
I truly miss my s2k cr and the jdm Cars that I had in the past. But the s2k changed everything for me in what I want in a car. Most people will never understand because they don't actually enjoy pure driving experience. To them 0-60 times equals fun and thats it and they miss the part of actually being in control and driving a car. Every car made today is just numb and boring and over engineered for no reason, no matter if it's an suv, sedan, or any sport related vehicle. Its a very sad story.😊
This is one of the many reasons why I bought an AE86 to restore. I want to have that connected, raw experience of a no strings attached sports car. It sucks to see our favorite automakers refuse or ignore what enthusiasts want most.
Agree with everything here, I've had my '23 RF Club for just over 1000mi now and it is just wonderful. I look forward to every drive, even looking for excuses. It fits me as a daily driver (there are situations where its nice to have a fiance with a cx30 though). Hell, I can even fit my keys/wallet in the center console!
Best car on the market.
Great video, as always. I'm already smiling ear to ear in my 2020 RF GTS, and I drive it every day! If you don't have kids and/or your partner has a larger car like a CUV or SUV there's absolutely no reason the ND can't be a daily driver.
Solid driver’s car.
I really wish the major brands would take a huge step forward, by looking back.
Use Singer as inspiration.
Small to moderate displacement, naturally aspirated, high revving, manual trans, analogue gauges, and minimal interior. The only electronics you really need are the ignition.
Thinking the Miata must be a second car is a frame of mind not a fact. It’s been my daily driver since 1990. We had three kids and in the middle of those child rearing years I had a sedan. The last one was a Lexus LS. My wife drove SUVs which we used for vacations. 99% of the time the number of people in my daily driver were the same, 1. Regardless of the size of the car, I was in it by myself which is the norm for most of us. I rode in a Triumph when I was in college, owned one soon after, and have understood what a light weight roadster was all about every since. My daily driver makes me smile. To me, the ND is so different from previous versions that it should have a different name. It’s the first that could become a classic. I think it has timeless beauty. The Jaguar and a couple of the Ferrari’s are the only better looking cars. It looks like a baby Jag. But, it drives better, except for that V-8 sound. The induction sounds are great in the ND but it isn’t as great as the sound of the Jag or the LC 500. Compared to a Miata everything else feels like a buss.
I'm saving up for an ND2, and I currently drive a 2014 kia optima LX, and my previous (and first) car was a 2001 chrysler 300m, which had an ANEMIC 200hp v6 in a 4500 pound boat. The Kia is far faster than the chrysler, and the mx-5 comparatively is LIGHTNING fast. Can't wait to own it.
Absolutely love this car. I have a 718 Spyder manual and still want a ND2.
They’re fantastic cars. I have a manual 718 GT4 and it’s parked next to a NC2. The Miata for me is the more enjoyable street car with the top down. Likely harder choice for you.
This should be the 718 GT4/Spyder thread of this video
My first car was an NA and I had it for over a decade and 225k epic miles. Then went to a 911 and now a Spyder (have both). Need a bigger garage! That tells you how good these Miata’s are.
I drove one years ago (2nd gen) when manufacturers used to have these roadshows where you could autocross these (AMG used to do them a ton as well) and loved it. But didn't have the money for one then.
"I have a 718 Spyder manual and still want a ND2." Can you elaborate on your reasons why? Would your answer change if you had a standard 718 or a 718 S?
My reason for asking is because I'm cross shopping and the practicality of the 718's storage is weighing in as a factor. Thank you.
I don't understand how this channel doesn't have already over 1M subs, there are other car reviewers out there that don't provide half the quality content as these guys, and yet they have much more subscribers.
It’s the music choices
Full hats off to Mazda for continuing to make this car in this day and age! 👏
Wow.. Your final rant really resonated with where I'm at with cars. Have just traded in my C43 AMG and bought a 1.5 Kizuna MX5 and absolutely loving driving again.
This channel convinced me to buy an ND. Thanks Mark/Jack
Do it, you won’t regret it.
@@mistermarkdavis 2019 ND2.
It's the best car I've ever owned. And I've driven most exotics you can think of. Miata is simply always the answer!
Same thing. This channel conviced me few years ago to buy an ND and I both mine in 2022. Best decision EVER !!
Completely agree with your final thoughts. Idk how people are finding 30, 40, 50k dollar vehicles "affordable" I make a decent living and can't come close.
Original owner of a 2019 Club with Brembo/BBS/Recaro package. I'm happy to see that Mazda is getting recognized for making a quality product for the masses.
Attributes I Love:
- One of the best 6-speed manual transmissions - ever. Clutch and manual transmission are a good, effective pairing.
- An actual normally aspirated high revving engine with real cam covers and no plastic cover.
- Low Weight - amazing in this day and age.
- Build quality and reliability - low cost to own and maintain. Use of aluminum parts. Amazing Soul Red Crystal paint.
- Styling is aging well.
- Simple, effective, attractive, well laid out analog gauge cluster.
- Great platform for OEM+ modifications (suspension, exhaust, brakes, etc). I have wrenched my own upgrades. Transforms the car and eliminates the excessive body roll from the factory. Upgraded exhaust adds to the enjoyment of the drive. Wider wheels and lower stance really enhance exterior look of the car.
- Miata heritage. Great to see the tradition of the original NA carried forward.
- Simple soft top with heated glass rear window.
- Availability of Brembo/BBS/Recaro package.
- Minimum tech - just enough to function in the 21st century, but not distract from the drive.
Attributes I Don't' Love:
- Wind noise over 65 mph with top up. Soft top needs at least one more layer of insulation.
- Electronic throttle - built in lag. Aftermarket throttle enhancers help.
- Lack of Interior space needs to be improved - even if just slightly.
If you ever get a chance, drive a well done OEM+ version - you will be surprised by the performance and handling - very fun driving experience.
5:43 Thats something i like about the current WRX. Its not isolated or smoothed out, the cowel shakes at speed giving you this feeling the entire car is going to fly apart the faster you go and it adds to the sensation. Meanwhile my LC500 does the same speed and its like I'm in first class. No big deal. And ppl give the current WRX sht for the cowel shaking at speed. THATS A FEATURE not a bug.
Some people criticize the ND because the shifter vibrates at idle. Ifs a feature; not a bug.
Compare the specs of an iconic 1970 Porsche 911S to the ND2 - the Miata has one more horsepower at the same redline, about an inch more wheelbase, weighs about sixty pounds more and better brakes. I went from owning several different Porsches (and many other makes) to a 30AE ND2 because for 1/2 the cost of a Boxster its so damn much fun. We rented an ND while we were out in Monterey for car week a few years ago - I bought a Miata a few months later. One of the best things about a Miata is it reminds me of the best of the sports cars of the sixties like my dad's old Alfa Romeo that was the first car I ever drove.
You guys hit upon something really key with this review: Fun at reasonable speeds. Great video!
Got my ND2 3 years ago and have daily driven it since. I've put 60,000 miles on it in that time. Taken several road trips of 2000+ miles and she has never missed a beat. I fall a little bit more in love with her every time I drive. Even if it's just going to work or the grocery store. It's a perfect car in so many ways and beautifully flawed in others. It's just the right amount of car for me. I don't need to bring all of my friends along with me. I don't need to take up an insane amount of lane space when it's just me. I do however wish I had more storage options, but I still get along just fine.
The Miata is now rare for what once was common; simple well designed and modest fun. Mazda does more with the less in the Miata than many companies do with the awe of greater. They prioritized to a full degree this style of car, and never compromised.
My garage: a 2019 ND2 GT-S soft top with ~$4,500 of mods, and a 2016 Outback. It's the perfect pair of vehicles for the PNW.
I drove a RF Club trim a few years ago when I was looking for sports car. I love their shift in the gearbox to 1:1 in 6th. This close ratio layout is one of the best decisions they made. It made the car an activity. Even on a 30mph side road, you're rowing through the gears. The ND looks good, feels good, feels solid, and the Club setup is relatively stiff and well damped for an oem setup. The engine feels adequate and refined. It also feels enough, plenty. Comparatively, the OG NA Miata is almost toy-like in every metric. The only real fault of the car is the absolutely dead steering. It's just really weird to have in a dedicated sports cars, especially when you can buy full size sedans and pickup trucks today with more feel. It's just a weird thing.
I agree the ND Miata is a special thing. It's highly polished and refined. It's highly optimized to its function. While some may praise the OG NA, those feel toy-like in comparison. The ND is now a substantial object.
Vehicles with pure sense of purpose stand out, and they kind of glow against the sea of other vehicles. They also do appear timeless specifically because there aren't comparables or true successors. The S2000 feels like this. The Viper feels like this. Heck, even a gen 1 Dodge minivan feels like this. These cars feel like a nearly perfect representation and execution of an idea, and they stand on their own merit for it.
I have bought a couple sports cars since my test drive. Unfortunately I never did buy a ND Miata. There were other things that interested me more, one with the same DNA and the other I feel is the grown up version of the Miata. To me, the RX8 is a more interesting car, not as fun stock, but scales well with mods. The other was an old E85 Z4. The Z4 feels like a matured Miata in size, refinement, and power. It has the classic roadster feel too, even more so in my opinion. Both are choices of personal preference, certainly, but both are also unique time capsules too. The RX8 is the last rotary. The Z4, at least the E85/E86 is the last naturally aspirated inline 6.
Some time ago I heard a comment about the miata: "it begs to be driven"
Within a year I finally picked one up. Almost 2 years later and I love it more each time I drive it
As usual Mark is spot on here. Such a fun car. I own a ND2 Club (soft top) and it's always a blast to drive. I previously owned a super-charged Lotus Elise. The Elise was definitely faster but it wasn't anymore fun than the MX5 to drive (it was more fun at cars n coffee type events of course but owning and driving one required lots of comprises compared to even the MX5).
I've always wanted an Elise. Tell me more about your trade reasons. I own a boosted NB miata. If a trade opportunity arrives, I want to know why it's a bad idea.
@@christopherlowery855 Its really about what you are looking for in a car. The Elise was way more raw - faster, louder and more tactile. It garnered much more attention which I loved. For me though, being 50 years old now and living in Florida, some of the cons were the air conditioning only worked for about 15 minutes, the lack of power steering was fun while driving but less fun while trying to pull out of my garage and parking spots, it had large blind spots especially while backing up (could've been mitigated with a rear camera) and it was very low to the ground which made pulling into parking lots and such a bit stressful and difficult. Ultimately I decided to sell because the A/C was terrible and I got tired of sweating to death after car shows and drives, I was terrified that the clam would be damaged, I didn't know of any trusted shops around that I could have any work done at if I needed anything done (I am not very mechanically inclined - and I don't have the right tools and low profile jack etc) and the price/value kept going up on a car I barely drove (I drove mine for 2 years and made decent money on sale which was ideal since my daughter just started college). So if you are handy, don't care about the lack of safety features and A/C and are not the sort that worries about someone damaging your car or running up the miles then the Elise/Exige are awesome. For me though the Miata while a bit slower is way more comfortable, almost as much fun and waay less worriesome/nerve racking. Also the Miata 'community' is much bigger and active than the Lotus one. Really you cant go wrong either way though. Both are amazing cars.
@@markfinnegan6038 Oh wow, thank you for the detailed reply. None of those things I really care about. My miata has an AC, but I drive without it because the car dies when I drive with it on. I also love driving with the windows down. I need a remote wire installed from the AC to the ECU, which I just need to do. I've driven a civic without PWS and the early miatas had PWS as an option. I can live without it. As for the rear visibility, I used to drive tractor trailers. We only have side mirrors to work with. That shohldn't be too much of an issue. As for the mechanic work, I do all the upgrades and mechanic work on my car. I outsource welding and pipe bending, but anything bolt-on I'll do. My car has 3" of ground clearance and I do have a low profile jack. I agree with you about not trusting people. Price and quality work are the two reasons I do the work myself. The work I'm not a fan of, just the results. Sounds like I could easily live with all of your cons. If I ever get rid of this car, an Elise looks like a good upgrade for me.
Thanks again for the insight.
THANK YOU for making this. This was an absolute joy to watch. My previous car was a 2017 ND Miata, and I put 45,000 miles on it before I had to trade it in to get something that would fit both of my kids in it. That was about 2 years ago.....I drive an Elantra N now, and I love driving it, but there is NOTHING that will match the feel of driving an ND MX-5.
I also love the point you made about having to get other cars up to insane/dangerous speeds to start "feeling something"....that's so true. I made the same observation after I got my Elantra N.... It's fun to drive, but in order to really feel something, I've gotta be in triple digits, which is just simply not smart. In my Miata, I could take a curve at 45mph and feel like I was taking a curve at 75mph. There's just nothing like it. One day, I'll get it again....as a second car--I hope before it's too late.
I got my '23 platinum quartz Club. Alignment was left zero toe and right was 1/16" in. It was twitchy. Now it's stable and snow tires for winter. I got an old 3/4 ton for hauling crap. *5'11" 265lbs. Worst is ducking the head getting in. Once in it feels like my old C4.
Looks are subjective of course but for me the ND Miata is the best looking Miata of all time inside and out. However when it comes to driving experience it lacks some steering feedback of the NA/NB Miata’s and that’s why I own an NB with a hard dog roll bar. Granted any Miata is a fantastic option for fun driving and that’s why we have 4 generations to choose from so we can find the one that matches what we are looking for most. Great video as always.
Thank you Mark for the bit at the end. I really appreciated that.
Gotta love how they went back to the basics with the ND.
Back to light weight, simple design, fun first. Then, the ND2 refined the powerplant, which is what everyone asked for..
Proud owner. (Soul crystal red, soft top, manual) Daily driving this, it's properly amazing! ❤
Absolutely great video. Really unusual and valuable perspective on the car and industry. Thanks.
Agree with you 100%! I got my 2023 ND2 this month and couldn't be happier! I've always wanted a small sports car, and on the day I almost placed an order for a BMW M240i after test-driving a used one, I saw the Mazda dealership down the street and decided to try the Miata again. Man, the 2 series drives nothing like a Miata, and the driving engagement and agility are not even close. Bought the ND2 on the spot. For car enthusiasts, only a few brands fulfill what we want in driver's cars today: Mazda, Toyota (Supra and 86), BMW (older generations), Porsche, Lotus, and Alfa Romeo. That's not a lot of options, but thats also what makes each of these brands and cars so special!
Brought my new ND2 home yesterday and parked it in the garage for the first time. It's the first car I've owned and it makes me feel bittersweet - knowing that my first car is possibly the best one I will ever have owned.
Two years ago I wanted to purchase an ND2 Club. Did all my research on mods and upgrades. But at 6'2"s even with a seat lowering kit it was a no go...had the same issue with an S2000 back in the day.
😂 sports cars specifically jdm are for 5 foot master race.
I feel your pain. The Miata was my first choice, but had to go with the gr86 just so I could fit. Though I'm not regretting my choice at all. It is a lot fun too.
I went with a GR Supra...barely fit, and I am trading that for a G87 M2 that should be here any day!
There are aftermarket seat rail kits that will drop the drivers seat down two inches and some weight at well. I am 6 feet and with the kit, I fit in mine with a helmet just fine.
My father is almost 6 foot 5 and fits, no excuses
Just picked up one of these, an RF Club. It is 100% a super super special car, truly a blast to drive. All of your comments in the vid are spot on - I just really appreciate the Mazda philosophy of "less is more". Nothing else out there can touch this for fun and just an intangible mechanical feel that puts a smile on your face. Thanks Mazda and SG!
Funny you bring this up, I bought myself a 2019 ND2 RF Miata in July 2023 and couldn't agree more with this review.
I've owned many sports cars including a C7 corvette, nsx, Porsche boxster, Ariel atom, GR Corolla, STI and the Miata is one of my favorites.
I love small, lightweight, nimble sports cars the best.
Looking at getting a Kawasaki ZX-4RR in the spring.
Love a high revving 16,000rpm inline 4 cylinder.
What's tough to realize is, this car has been out for just as long as the NA's initial production run. Absolutely insane.
Proper review of this car and analisys on current situation of the performance car scene...which is indeed mostly excessive and disposable.
I've got a 2021 Club. The docu-series they put out awhile back was one big reason why I went with the ND2 over the 86.
And these guys are right on the money with their review of the Miata. Fantastic small sports car, immensely enjoyable to drive even at slower speeds, great shifter feel, and a charismatic engine that's not very powerful but really wakes up and comes alive past 4k. Definitely a car designed for windy back roads, mountain passes, cruising down the beach, especially with the top down. Even with the club suspension setup, it's a car set up to be firm but comfortable for the daily drive, but playful in the corners.
Yes, if you want a machine for the autox or track days, you'll need to do some work to it. But that's honestly true of all cars at this price point. But even then, you're a few upgrades away from having an amazing time on track.
Bought my ND2 last year for all the exact same reasons you guys mention in the video. I am a petrolhead and love all sort of cars but nothing compares to the joy of driving this simple, light and responsive roadster. I will keep it forever.
When I spoke to the salesperson at Mazda he told me that he never has to sell these cars: they sell by themselves. You go for a test drive and then you just want one (happened to me). Well, to be honest I had an NB before.
If you think this car is slow just check some YT videos of ND2s on the Nurburgring with good drivers at the wheel. It is a momentum car and you have to “earn speed”, but cornering is second to none.
Cheers from Luxembourg.
I own a new Miata and all I can say is every time you drive this car it makes you feel like you are on a first date in high school except you actually know what you are doing.Nothing else matters you are in the moment with a partner that picked you to dance with.One of the best reviews on the Miata.
Well guys, now you know how we felt driving the MGB (and MGB GT) fifty-five years ago.
I have an ND1. It’s my first manual and first enthusiast car I’ve ever had. I’ve modified the suspension and brakes to my exact needs, but it doesn’t scratch one itch that won’t go away- it’s not a Porsche. the car doesn’t feel “cool” enough for me to want it over something else even if I enjoy the drive every single time. I think about how much time I spend looking at other people’s cars, and no one looking at mine.
And it takes videos like this for that extra perspective, so maybe I can stop looking for whatever comes next, and just appreciate and enjoy what I have.
Thank you.
Low limits - that's everything
My brother had 2 85 RX-7s and then later a 2000 Miata. Mazda always nails these chassis.
I had to get rid of my beautiful RF because we had a kid, and I miss it dearly.... I will soon own an ND again, hopefully soon :(
This is a sign. I’ve been considering getting a Miata as my 2nd car. Thought about trading to replace the daily, but it just didn’t make sense with it being paid off. The other cars won’t provide extra $20-30k of fun. This is the best it gets.
Mazda mx5, the ultimate driving machine
ending genuinely terrified me. as an NC owner thinking about picking up an ND, you have convinced me. thank you for the video
I will never sell my manual soft-top 2021 club with recaro/bbs.
I ordered and took delivery on one of the very first ND Clubs in September of 2015. In 8 years, I've put 48k on it and in that time, I've put oil in it, a battery, and a set of tires. That's it. Granted, I dropped it on coilovers and changed out some of the lighting, but it's been a perfect car. My overall average is 37mpg, but I can easily hit over 40mpg on trips if I pay attention.
Sure, it's not 300 hp. But I compare these Mustangs and ZL1 Camaros and Red Eyes to grizzly bears. They make a lot of noise and can attack in short bursts. A Miata is like a honey badger. And honey badgers don't give a fuck. A Miata can use ALL of its go ALL of the time if you want. I was taking a friend somewhere and I took a 90 degree turn at about 7/10ths (for my comfort) and he said he was scared because he'd never taken a turn like that in any vehicle.
"The end of the Miata" has been prophesized for 15 years. If Mazda ever announces that they really are done with it, I'll likely trade up to the very last model and keep it forever, to sit along side the 1990 NA that sits in my garage next to the current 2016. America, in general, doesn't know what driving is supposed to be. We've been told it needs to be an extension of our living room or office on wheels. Not for me. When I drive one of my Miatas, it's to specifically NOT be at home, comfortable in my recliner. The top is down, and the music is way too loud.
I'll own a Miata until I can no longer physically get in and out of one.
My brother owns an ND2 and I have a GR86, we both love our cars and know we bought the right ones for us having driven both. I agree this will be a classic, it’s just not what I’m chasing in a driving experience
A good video with sensible dialogue. I am an Australian & have just bought a 2015 ND GT; WOW, what a beaut car. Too many presenters moan about the lack of horsepower & too little internal space, not to overlook the bloody cup holders. What is the obsession with North Americans & cup holders; who cares really. The MX5 is a usable daily drive but as a true sports car not an option for the typical family unit. I do not think it was ever meant to be that anyway. This car can only be graded/marked for what it is & not as a comparison to fire breathing V8's or typical family sedans etc. However, I find the power output more than adequate. I am 76 years old & 6'1" & have no issues with my aged frail body fitting in the car. I am a motorcycle rider of 60 years standing & believe that this car is the next best device. I have mentioned at another presenters site that 'WE' should all be extremely thankful that Mazda actually provides the MX5 with the variable fit- out options available. As a 'proper roadster' it has no opposition
ALL Miatas, so far, will be classics.
The NA and ND will be classics 👌 but other mx5 are fantastic cars too ❤
You guys are right on except I daily mine. Have done it since new 4 years ago . Summer, winter ( with snow tires ) and every season in between . I live in Buffalo Ny , the land of snow storms. It’s my only car , it’s an RF club and has never let me down. It’s fun, it’s special, and I want a second one to store for when my current car is old and tired. Thank you SG and thanks mazda . I smile every day on every commute!
Awesome video! I was looking forward to it after Mark told me that they had an ND2 they were going to take another quick take on. Totally true on all points. And even if you do get Ohlins and stickier tires for track/autocross and the overall price gets pricier, there's always the factor that you may modify your SS 1LE or comparable car with that stuff anyhow. The core Miata traits of low consumable costs still survives after doing basic modifications.
On my ND1, I have the SakeBomb Ohlins and a set of PS4S tires for my normal driving and then 225/45/17 RE-71R tires for autocross and the car is still teaching me new things as a driver I didn't know when I autocrossed my modified Mk5 GTI that is now just my 'rabbit hole modified' daily driver haha.
Keep up the great videos Mark and Jack!
I have the long travel Ohlins from Sake Bomb as well. Stance and feel is just perfect.
@@tludwig400 nice I have the other versions still with the spherical top hats but not the long travel versions. I run Swift 6kg/3kg springs. One day I’d love to get the Karcepts front ARB, but I still have room to improve as a driver so I want to do that first.
@@g60corrado91yep, I did the same top hats with spherical bearings and the same Swift springs. Those top hats make some noise from time to time, but otherwise love this setup. I intend to do sways as well, but I’ve been super busy the last couple of years and haven’t made the time to get to it.
@@tludwig400 same here. Plus around $1100 with the subframe reinforcement kit. Can’t justify that right now with the 1 or 2 autox’s I do each year.
I’d say the NC is already the classic.
I don’t think the NC with ever have the following that the other gens do. It’s started to become somewhat recognized for what it is but it’s just not going to be as beloved as the ND will be and already is.
Yes, but what aboot second ND breakfast?
@Epicflipflops agreed. The NC lends itself to be a serious track car since it's just a bit bigger and conducive to the 2.5L engine swap.
The NC is the redheaded stepchild of the line. Not saying it's a bad car, but it's definitely not as popular or good as the other generations.
@viscountslappy5085 you're saying the red-headed stepchild isn't as good as the other children, which of course isn't true. They're just different.
Love your perspective on the industry in this video! Currently driving a 2001 sub-90,000 mile is300 and two 2013 MINI’s (Clubman S and 2-door S hardtop). The MOST fun I’ve had in a car in a long time!
I LIVE FOR SAVAGEGEESE MX-5 CONTENT
Thank for your valuable insight. I’ve been wandering from Miata to Corvette (C7) to Mustang GT to BMW M240i to BMW M2 to Porsche 718 Cayman, and I’ve come full circle. I’m buying an ND2, or if it comes out before year’s end, the ND3. I don’t need the speed or the power: I just need a car that is fun to drive without needing to reach insane speeds.
So much truth from 12:00 minute mark on. The best most loved cars are light simple and focus on dynamics over numbers. Thanks Mazda for this beauty.