Here's a fact to show how good the NC is, and don't believe the negative hype BTW. The NC was on Car and Drivers Top 10 list 8 times, which is more than any other Miata.
@@crz95 I don't believe one Miata is better than another. All the generations are built upon a shared theme. The negativity towards the NC was not from automotive reviewers, but rather IMO from self-proclaimed "purists" on Miata message boards who couldn't handle a little friendly family competition. It was brutal and unnecessary.
Here’s a fact on why no one thinks the NC is the best Miata ever made. In fact some would say worst. Look at the resell value for all generations. It speaks for itself. The NC doesn’t have a true Miata chassis. It’s a rebadged RX-8. The Miata team was told to work off the RX-8 chassis due to cost cutting. The NC is a victim of the times. Back in 06 the car industry was taking a huge hit in sales leading to the recession. Also, the ND weighs LESS than an NA. That’s a true engineering feat with all the mandatory safety requirements. I’m a NB mazdaspeed owner so I have my bias. But I can at least tell you first hand the NC is liked the least amongst Miata owners.
@@MannyKings5 had an NA, drove a bunch of NDs, my favorite is my current NC tho. Feels more like a sports car than the other Miatas, which drive more like toys. Not worse in itself, just different. It’s just so neutral in corners, fast, well balanced and easy to position. Yes, the NC and RX-8 share a chassis, why not? It’s a good one. Parts are swappable, but they’ve been reworked for the corresponding car. Sharing technology doesn’t mean cheaping out on quality of development:)
@@MannyKings5 I've never heard anyone talk negatively about resale value, but go to Carvana and you'll see NC's holding their own. The NC was designed well prior to 2006. The chassis is based off the RX-8 but it is not exactly plug and play. Where are the meaningful differences between it and a typical Miata chassis? Like the ND, it has wishbones in the front and multilink rear. It has a PPF as all Miatas do. And the NA and NB have the engine from the 323. The MazdaSpeed NB weighs as much as an early NC. The NC's body or "tub" is lighter than the NB's. The NB is a tweaked and re-skinned NA. So a MazdaSpeed Miata sold in 2005 was basically a car designed in the mid-80's. Of course the ND has the electric steering from the RX-8. Uh oh. Parts swapping is not news, nor does it make the NC any less of a Miata. Which Miata owners like it the least? Those who have a NA, NB or ND? If someone has or had a NC and no other Miata would they prefer another they don't have or haven't driven? All generations do basically the same thing - drop the top and go for a spin and have a smile on your face.
I got 2013 club red Miata and I can confirm that sir, people give me compliments all the time.. many time people aren't even sure what is it.. but they think it's a "fast' sports car.
2012 PRHT GT here, brilliant black on Flying miata kogeki wheels, and lowered misterR coilovers. It has lots of pitting at the front, but I still get compliments all the time.
I wasn’t really a fan of this generation when they came out (as I thought it looked a little bloated) but this video helped me to see the beauty in it.
I think those bloated claims make a lot of sense when you look at the initial release of the NC1, especially from the front (not hating on the NC1, those things get a lot eyes from collectors from what I hear). This one in the video is the first facelift model, the NC2. The added angles to the eyes and that big old grin give it a little more of an aggressive look. Plus, you can’t beat the novelty of that power hard top, these things are as slept on as miatas get with the current market
Finally someone who agrees with me that NC Miata is the best Miata 😌 I've been working hard to get myself an NC Miata. But the availability here makes it hard to find one and expensive too
100% agree with you. I’ve got one NC black series (softop) in Italy! Absolutely amazing. My most fun car to drive along the hill national roads or along the sea shores.
I had a NA Mx5 (Miata) years ago, and my uncle drove it for a week and soon bought an NC mx5 (Miata) because he enjoyed it so much. I recently bought his NC, then modded (exhaust and suspension) it a little and can definitely see the similarities between the generations. The NC is under appreciated as a platform, and thank you for sharing this with people.
underappreciated doesn't just cut it. Today i kinda went looking at other cars, thought to myself "shouldnt be difficult to find something comperable but modern". Fuck was i wrong by a mile and a half. Tried 3 cars, considered to be JDM bargin balls of fun. 370z, gt86 and ND miata as a replcement for my NC. Which one drove the best and closes to my NC, the fiest st i stopped by on the way home to try as a joke. The steering in NC is fucking amazing, i dont know how they did it. It is just so damn communicative, even my friends NA with no power steering dosnt come close.
underappreciated yes, but I would take a nd2 any day over my track prepped nc1. It used to a great bargain when you could get a full running car for ~$5000 but its ridiculous how they are above 10k even for a nc1 now.
@@bruce_sonThe price jump is Pretty bad. I paid 10k for my nc. Still needed a clutch, 4 thousand miles In. An entry level sports car. Is fairly Expensive now.
Love my NC. I've driven every generation at this point and I'm 100% biased but the NC is definitely my favorite gen of Miata. I got mine super cheap with 250,000 miles on it with some body damage, but after cleaning it up, doing fluid changes, and some little mods, the car drives like new and is so much fun.
What makes you like it more than the ND or NB? I just got my 2001 SE totaled and trying to figure out what to get. I really loved the British racing green on tan with the nardi wood steering wheel. I haven’t driven an NC but have driven the other generations.
Just bought a 2008 Miata Grand Touring NC model with leather, Bose 6-speaker tunes/CD sound, heated seats, with only 30,000 miles on it. It had been hit on the drivers quarter panel and door, totaled by the insurance co., and repaired. With that low mileage it drives like it's new, 166 HP with a 6-speed, and like everybody says, just a joy to drive. You can and I have left a light spinning the tires a little bit and easily chirping 2nd gear just for fun. Just returned from my 1st road trip, and you can happily lock the cruise at 85 on the hwy, and it's rock solid, even at 90 or 95. Plenty of power, great transmission, even has enough low end torque to put it in 6th gear at "50 mph," put the seat all the way back and contentedly roll up and down the gentle curving hills of Hwy 16 from West Jefferson, NC to Wilkesboro, and the engine is happy as a clam and never lugs or moves off that 50mph cruise set.
I used to want the NB so much and then the ND only because it's new but after trying the NC I think it's the best of all of the generations combined, comfort and size and handling all in good amounts.
Love the respect for the NC! I have a 2.5L swapped 2007 Miata and I absolutely love it. Such a versatile car, im glad everyone's starting to appreciate it more
@@CosmicSeeker69 It’s the motor off the Mazda6 and Ford Fusion. It’s almost a direct fit, you need to use the original oil pan. It’s a cost effective solution when the original 2.0 dies out and the 2.5 has a lot more torque.
I bought the 2008 Mazda MX-5 PRHT Grand Touring model in the color...."Highland Green", and I have to tell ya, this car will make you feel like you are finally living the good life. Not only does it look amazing, it's comfortable for longer drives, it gives you confidence. The wife thinks I won the lottery. I have to hide the keys now.
I agree, NC takes design cues from the NA, while the ND is a modern interpretation of the NB. Simple design, I like the pill shape, and with the exception of missing pop ups it’s a much better car than my NA.
I absolutely agree! I love the NC both pre and post facelift. It’s taunt and purposeful surfaces make the ND look pudgy and slow. The hood bulge/chamfer is my favorite detail.
You posted this video 9 days ago which is about the same day I bought my 2022 ND MX5. Everything you said is 100% truth, they are fun cars to drive. I'm loving mine so far. I got the soft top and having a full convertible makes for a great driving experience. I also have a manual transmission. You can't find many cars these days that are naturally aspirated, manual and rear wheel drive that are this affordable. I enjoyed watching your video as I like the styling of the NC Miata's. Kudos!
M47, 2022. In 2019 I finally decided to get one. The OG is all I ever wanted but over the years I realised I must have had perfectionism and obsolutism that slowly left me. I never liked the NC styling due to how it wimped out on the ibuki concept design. But I drove NAs and NCs and saw that the NC was clearly the better drive and ownership choice. I've driven 50 thousand k in mine since.
I've always appreciated the way the cockpit looks so small and distinct in the PRHT version. I passed on one before spending a lot more on a 370Z and kind of regret it. The NC has its drawbacks but for anyone wanting an affordable powered hardtop it's a no-brainer. The ND is definitely sexier but the RF Targa top is a pretty big compromise and the price is still a bit steep for many.
I didn't like the PHRT or the NC in general but ended up in a soft top 06 in 2019 after driving a few models and thinking about it. Then, it turned out my MX5 mechanic has an auto PRHT loaner. It changed my mind. If that hard roof and an auto box would make someone consider an MX5 when they otherwise wouldn't/couldn't, I realized they were Good Things.
Finally somebody who says it. Nicer interior, more space (im 16 and can’t sit comfortably in the previous gens), stock widebody and dual tale pipes. Thanks
@@Bembli Mine came used with beaten tires and was spinning on almost every green light. But when I installed a grippy set of tires it refused to spin and now is a perfect daily in all conditions. Absolute blast though when you kick the clutch!
Either keep the nannies on or get some experience driving at the limits and beyond. The more driving skills you have, the more fun the MIata will offer.
From Japan! I bought mx-5 nc last year I can bought new Mx-5 but I don’t bought because this model is the best car. I like the rear design and electric hardtop！
I still sometimes miss the sheer simplicity of my NA. Few if any electronic nannies (except the seatbelt warning buzzer). I don't miss the rust and the oldness of things constantly having to be repaired or replaced. I nearly cried when I sold it, but without planning to I bought an NC to replace it. I love the modernity of the NC. Everything that needs to work on the NC works better. And I don't really want to pay stupid money to go back to an NA or NB. I bought my NA when it was 17 yrs old; it had slow or non-working power windows, carb-clogged EGR valve and intake passage, idle droop, badly faded paint, etc. I fixed all of those things and many more (like the timing belt, water pump, radiator), it still had rockers rusted to the point of non-existence. I bought my NC when it was about 12yrs old, and it's now about 17 yrs old, but has none of those issues. It had clogged rear drains; I cleared those, took out the seats and carpet and the water-damaged padding, and fixed a few dime-sized rust holes which had developed in the floorpan. I upgraded the stereo and installed a subwoofer. I added an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Not much else other than that in nearly 5 years of ownership. I just replaced the master & slave cylinder and cracked clutch pedal (I probably only needed to do that as the cylinders weren't leaking). Hasn't needed any engine or transmission work (but I think it's time I changed out the fluid).
That test car looks a LOT like te one in my Driveway , a total joy every day I get to drive it , small well handling with a decent turn of speed when worked through the gears - Long may it live
Couldn't agree more (bc I've got the exact model you show here too... nc2, 2.0, with the sports exhaust, adjustable coilovers and a lsd, plus the folding hardtop) great choice, sir! 👍
I have a 2011 kendo mx5 nc2 and i love it, will never sell it. Makes me smile every day. Nice review. Yep its a must for people who love to drive, drive to smile... john
I love my 2009 NC GT….best car I have owned….and so right about how much fun to drive. And you’re right about the value….bought mine use and I can sell it for a lot more than I paid for it. But is a keeper, going to give it to one of the kids when I’m older. What makes if more fun is that we have winters here and its NOT driven then so it sits in the garage for summer waiting for me. I also never drive it in the rain as I only drive it top down.
Before I bought my ND2, I was super torn between it and the NC3 club model. The NC is great, possibly the best suspension design out of any Miata, pretty much the same as the RX8 suspension design. I know the newer models (NC / ND) don't get as much hype as the older models but they are far superior in handling, and just outright performance in general. And the soft top NC is not nearly as much heavier than anybody thinks it is.
I use to own an NA. But I'm really looking forward to finding the perfect NC miata. The interior looks so clean to me and it just looks classy overall imo
I've had an 06 for 3 years, no regrets. But I watched the savage geese doco on them and discovered that the later years got some seriously useful improvements. That guy loves cars and his chat with the US Mazda guy with one up on a hoist ... worth a look! ruclips.net/video/bslB_4JIKs0/видео.html
Compared all four generations two years ago, and wound up buying the NC-1 that I found with only 24k miles. Best car in the lineup in my opinion. A faithful extension to the spirit and style of the NA and NB with a bit more room and a good power upgrade for the 2.0L. The ND departed a bit too much from the prior three generations, and I don't need all the bells and whistles (infotainment screen) while carving mountain twisties. Just give me a solid analog car with low weight and perfect balance (and a 6 speed stick).
I love the Frank Stephenson and Doug DeMuro approach to this video! And yeah! I think the NC is just the perfect balance as modern [the front end and interior] and retro [the rear end]
The only Miata’s I can fit in pretty comfortably are the NC and ND. The NC design is like a modernized NA. The ND looks great but lost some of that happy design
I'm surprised you have never done a video on the ND design! Mazda's recent design language has been really on point compared to all the overstyled cars from every other Japanese brand.
I bought a dark blue NC to replace my ageing 2002 NB. But though it looked beautiful, it was the NC I sold six months later, and stuck to the NB. On the open road the NC was better, but around town the NB is more nimble, and that's what I love about MX5s. The NB has done 325,000km and is still going strong (though I am gentle with it).
Thanks for adding your size at the end. JUST began my search for an NC and at 6'2, 205, I was wondering if I could even fit in it. Owned 2 Triumph TR-6's back in the mid' 70's and they had plenty of room in the footwells so I was hoping the Miata would feel roughly the same.
All the Miatas have their plusses and minuses. In the end, I believe the NC2 provides the most flexibility in terms of comfort and upgradeability. I'd rather get a 2022 Toyota GR86 than upgrade to a ND2; until then I'll enjoy my supercharged NC2.
Mine: stock 2006 NC GX ragtop, automatic, mica grey metallic, OEM rear lip spoiler and splash guards, Michelin Pilot tires. I'm 72, my wife is 70 and we can still get in and out of it with no issues. This sports car will stay in the "family" indefiately.
Had a 91 miata back when I was a kid and it kept going despite the fact that I didn't take care of it very well. 59 years old now and needed a new ride and thought back to how reliable and easy to work on that 91 was and went out and grabbed a 2013 NC. No regrets and it appears to be just as reliable and easy to work on as that 91. I actually prefer the body style of the NC compared to the newer models so there might be a chance that this NC might be the last car I ever need to buy. Have plenty of time to take care of one now too. Added bonus is I have not gotten any "hairdresser/chick car" comments with the NC so far.
i'm planning on buying one tomorrow! i'm really excited to drive it. it is a 1.8 tho but as someone who hasn't much experience driving high HP cars, i'm not too worried on missing out on anything.
I absolutely love my 2012 NC2 special edition. Even more so after header, Fab9 Tune, Meister coilovers, and muffler delete. It’s stupid good! I love all generation Miata’s. But the NC is just… special.
I used to have an NA now I have an 2016 ND GT and in my opinion I think it looks better than the NC. The NC looks more like an OG Miata and is a nice take on the classic design but I prefer the sharper more aggressive lines on the ND. It's small and nitpicky but the fact that the ND got fender mounted turn signals for the first time in the NA market really made the look of the car for me. I think the ND design language gives it a more worldly and European look while still being clearly a Miata from 100 feet away. Atleast to me. I do really like the NC too though. It's not that much bigger in all honesty than the other Miata's like some people make them out to be. My dad has a 2011 NC PRHT model as well and he loves it. I've driven it a few times and prefer the hydraulic power steering to my electric power steering in the ND but I can tell that by all other metrics the ND is the better performing car. At the end of the day no matter what Miata you buy I don't think you'll be dissatisfied as long as you can fit in it lol. Atleast that's what I tell people.
Sure would like to know where he found that rear lip spoiler. The PHRT rear lip spoiler is more rare than hen’s teeth. Mazda USA didn’t offer this as an option for the PHRT.
We got a Miata NC before knowing the "Miata purists" hate it. The purists don't like the extra space and couple hundred extra pounds. They hate the glove box, knee vents, larger trunk and extra leg room apparently. Whatever. We don't give a S@@@ what anyone thinks of the NC, we think it is the best by far as it is the most practical for us. We plan to take long road trips in it, something you can't do in the other generations. The trunk in the other generations might only be large enough to put a pair of shoes in.
I always wanted a miata after I got out of high-school something about a small car, tons of mods, even up to an ls swap. Well thank God when I was 31 i was able to get a NB and I don't think I will ever get rid of it.
I've got a 2017 ND RF, and I'm a bit jealous of a couple of things. This hardtop drops completely away, while mine is essentially a Targa top. Safety I guess, but I'd rather have this top. The info screen here looks more integrated, mine looks like an afterthought, and doesn't function all that well.
I think some people like the idea of an open top, but don't like the feeling of being completely exposed that comes with a traditional convertible top.
Looks like your right front alloy wheel is bent. My cousin has an NC 2.0L that I drove many times, while it is a great car I definitely prefer my ND2 2.0L, lots more power, lighter, better handling. I had 240Z, an NSX, a 2008 Lotus Elise R, an NB 1999 10th Anniversary, a 2016ND1 and now an ND2 184. Thanks for the video.
I have not watched this video yet and I already agree. Proud owner of a 2012 special edition and going from a 91 you do miss the pop-up up-and-down headlights but everything else is identical
That was a good review. If you like that car, you will like the 2001 BMW 330i. It came in both 2 door and 4 door, 5 speed manual, 3 litre inline 6 cylinder, 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds, which is still reasonably quick in 2023. It also was available as a convertible. The sport package tightened up the suspension and it sat an inch lower.
But it cost twice the price to get the bmw in fine condiction😂 bmw is a good car and I love it. But it just too expensive to fix all the broken part and not everyone could afford it.
Hey man just had some thoughts on your review. Maybe try to drive the car on a twisty canyon road so we get an impression of how the car handles and feels. Driving it on flat straight regular streets doesn't really give us a picture of how the car would preform other than in a daily driving scenario. Love the vids tho!
Honestly, it feels a bit different than the previous generations of Miatas, a bit less 'go-carty', but it does great in the twisties. And it feels noticeably more torque.
I drive one as a daily 100 kilometers a day over autobahn. I absolutely love it and people love it aswell that see me in it! It's a great car. It just was extremely quiet by factory so u couldn't here any engine sound when reving with roof down. A sports exhaust fixes it and it also makes pops now :D
I drive a gun metal grey 2014 MX 5 NC. A ten second car. It came out of the box race ready with Le Mans paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Every time I drive it I'm in a James Bond movie. When people see it they ask, 'does it have machine guns behind the fog lights?' The license plate reads 009. It's definitely licensed to kill. Does a 'drift' nicely. Q branch read out, race ready with paddle shifters. A ten second car, does 0 to 100 mph in ten seconds. Double wish bone suspension and drive while flat tires makes her a nimble cat with tough paws. The body is made of rust resistant steel and carbon fiber (Kevlar) material. It has quarter inch metal armor under the engine and transmission. Stainless steel exhaust. A seven speaker Boise sound system keeps the Bond theme music coming thru 5 by 5.
I have a NC 08 PRHT M6 daily driver for 7 years. Not one thing went wrong with it. It's the most fun you can have, and I have owned 981 Cayman, C7, ZL1, Mustangs etc. I love the car more each day. I will be buried in this car!
8:35 ... "I need to get something like this..." I hear this sentiment all the time from car reviewers, even the well-known ones. They all admire and enjoy the Miata, and I don't think any of them have a bad word to say about the Miata, but they don't own one. Why is that? The only highly popular car enthusiast that I can think of that actually owns a Miata is Jay Leno. All the rest talk about it, love driving it, but don't actually own one! For the reviewer here, instead of saying I need to get something "like this" how about saying ... I'm going to get an NC Miata! Or tell us all why you hesitant about getting one! - Cheers!
In 2020 I bought a 2011 PRHT special edition in Dolphin Grey with light grey leather seats, so much fun I can hardly stand it, I drive an XC90 with my kids during the week and it's fine but this one brings a smile to my face every time :)
The NC Miata has always been my favorite generation, especially pre-facelift. The elegance of the NA with added muscularity. Could never get why some people hate on them.
Sitting in my NC, phone on the steering wheel, watching this video has definitely confirmed my already stable belief that I will NEVER sell this car. I will revive it time and time again to make sure it is mine forever.
Hi I'm a happy owner of 2011 MX5 nc FI , 54,000 k"m KRAFTWERKS SUPERCHARGED (about 10psi boost ) TOMEI camshafts Complete exhaust system (including 1.8 no cat header) Lightweight flywheel MOTO-EAST intek JOYFAST high spark ignition coils BC-RACING coilovers Tuned by MIKE from MOTO-EAST And much more ....! The best Toy ever !
Hi dude, like the content. Took The plunge, and bought one, a Week ago. I smile, a lot. I went all In. New exhaust, tyres, brake pads, its quick enough for me. 👍 Am very broke now lalol 😂
Love the NC Miata. It's like the handsome half British half Japanese brother secret agent of the Miata family. Wear a suit and you'd still look good in it.
Before I was really into Miata's and anything without a roof was just a convertible to me, I was totally in love with the NC. I liked the design because it reminded me a bit of a Jaguar XK. The NA/NB had not interested me at all at that time... fast forward 5 years and I despise the NC and the only true Miata's for me are the NA and NB.
Here's a fact to show how good the NC is, and don't believe the negative hype BTW. The NC was on Car and Drivers Top 10 list 8 times, which is more than any other Miata.
As an NC owner for 10 years, I had no idea! Awesome. Hearing shit like this reassured me that I should never sell mine
@@crz95 I don't believe one Miata is better than another. All the generations are built upon a shared theme. The negativity towards the NC was not from automotive reviewers, but rather IMO from self-proclaimed "purists" on Miata message boards who couldn't handle a little friendly family competition. It was brutal and unnecessary.
Here’s a fact on why no one thinks the NC is the best Miata ever made. In fact some would say worst. Look at the resell value for all generations. It speaks for itself. The NC doesn’t have a true Miata chassis. It’s a rebadged RX-8. The Miata team was told to work off the RX-8 chassis due to cost cutting. The NC is a victim of the times. Back in 06 the car industry was taking a huge hit in sales leading to the recession.
Also, the ND weighs LESS than an NA. That’s a true engineering feat with all the mandatory safety requirements.
I’m a NB mazdaspeed owner so I have my bias. But I can at least tell you first hand the NC is liked the least amongst Miata owners.
@@MannyKings5 had an NA, drove a bunch of NDs, my favorite is my current NC tho. Feels more like a sports car than the other Miatas, which drive more like toys. Not worse in itself, just different.
It’s just so neutral in corners, fast, well balanced and easy to position.
Yes, the NC and RX-8 share a chassis, why not? It’s a good one. Parts are swappable, but they’ve been reworked for the corresponding car. Sharing technology doesn’t mean cheaping out on quality of development:)
@@MannyKings5 I've never heard anyone talk negatively about resale value, but go to Carvana and you'll see NC's holding their own. The NC was designed well prior to 2006. The chassis is based off the RX-8 but it is not exactly plug and play. Where are the meaningful differences between it and a typical Miata chassis? Like the ND, it has wishbones in the front and multilink rear. It has a PPF as all Miatas do. And the NA and NB have the engine from the 323. The MazdaSpeed NB weighs as much as an early NC. The NC's body or "tub" is lighter than the NB's. The NB is a tweaked and re-skinned NA. So a MazdaSpeed Miata sold in 2005 was basically a car designed in the mid-80's. Of course the ND has the electric steering from the RX-8. Uh oh. Parts swapping is not news, nor does it make the NC any less of a Miata. Which Miata owners like it the least? Those who have a NA, NB or ND? If someone has or had a NC and no other Miata would they prefer another they don't have or haven't driven? All generations do basically the same thing - drop the top and go for a spin and have a smile on your face.
I got 2013 club red Miata and I can confirm that sir, people give me compliments all the time.. many time people aren't even sure what is it.. but they think it's a "fast' sports car.
Same here! Get complimented almost everyday driving this car. I got the 2013 GT PRHT
They love that stormy blue mica, too.
2012 PRHT GT here, brilliant black on Flying miata kogeki wheels, and lowered misterR coilovers. It has lots of pitting at the front, but I still get compliments all the time.
@@vlenhoff did you do any performance mod?
Had a white club edition nc, my favourite car ever. Love the prht
I wasn’t really a fan of this generation when they came out (as I thought it looked a little bloated) but this video helped me to see the beauty in it.
I agree about the bloated design but to me it's one of the special quirks only available for NC Miata 😁
I think those bloated claims make a lot of sense when you look at the initial release of the NC1, especially from the front (not hating on the NC1, those things get a lot eyes from collectors from what I hear). This one in the video is the first facelift model, the NC2. The added angles to the eyes and that big old grin give it a little more of an aggressive look. Plus, you can’t beat the novelty of that power hard top, these things are as slept on as miatas get with the current market
I didnt know it had a retractable hard top
Daamn, that steering wheel is truck size lol
I think this one looks better, because it’s lowered and the wheels.
Finally someone who agrees with me that NC Miata is the best Miata 😌 I've been working hard to get myself an NC Miata. But the availability here makes it hard to find one and expensive too
Either way you and I will still pay premium price for one in good shape.
NC2>ND>NA>NB
@@fabioribeiro1009 ND2 does everything better tbh, but these are nice
@@fabioribeiro1009 Nice car but not what a Miata should be imo...specially with that retractable hard top...bloated and heavy...
Same here. They are very expensive... later models go for almost as much as an ND😑
100% agree with you. I’ve got one NC black series (softop) in Italy! Absolutely amazing. My most fun car to drive along the hill national roads or along the sea shores.
I had a NA Mx5 (Miata) years ago, and my uncle drove it for a week and soon bought an NC mx5 (Miata) because he enjoyed it so much. I recently bought his NC, then modded (exhaust and suspension) it a little and can definitely see the similarities between the generations. The NC is under appreciated as a platform, and thank you for sharing this with people.
underappreciated doesn't just cut it. Today i kinda went looking at other cars, thought to myself "shouldnt be difficult to find something comperable but modern". Fuck was i wrong by a mile and a half. Tried 3 cars, considered to be JDM bargin balls of fun. 370z, gt86 and ND miata as a replcement for my NC. Which one drove the best and closes to my NC, the fiest st i stopped by on the way home to try as a joke. The steering in NC is fucking amazing, i dont know how they did it. It is just so damn communicative, even my friends NA with no power steering dosnt come close.
@@Chewie260 same here, had a go in a z4, s 2000,
and a brz. Scooby was nice. Still prefer my nc.
underappreciated yes, but I would take a nd2 any day over my track prepped nc1. It used to a great bargain when you could get a full running car for ~$5000 but its ridiculous how they are above 10k even for a nc1 now.
@@bruce_sonThe price jump is
Pretty bad. I paid 10k for my nc.
Still needed a clutch, 4 thousand miles
In. An entry level sports car. Is fairly
Expensive now.
Love my NC. I've driven every generation at this point and I'm 100% biased but the NC is definitely my favorite gen of Miata. I got mine super cheap with 250,000 miles on it with some body damage, but after cleaning it up, doing fluid changes, and some little mods, the car drives like new and is so much fun.
What makes you like it more than the ND or NB? I just got my 2001 SE totaled and trying to figure out what to get. I really loved the British racing green on tan with the nardi wood steering wheel. I haven’t driven an NC but have driven the other generations.
Still running?
@@shifu9276 yessir, currently 293,000 miles on her.
@@andusensei Dang! Does it have the original power train almost 300k later?
@@andusensei There's guys in Miata clubs that have over 400,000 miles on them and still running strong!
Just bought a 2008 Miata Grand Touring NC model with leather, Bose 6-speaker tunes/CD sound, heated seats, with only 30,000 miles on it. It had been hit on the drivers quarter panel and door, totaled by the insurance co., and repaired. With that low mileage it drives like it's new, 166 HP with a 6-speed, and like everybody says, just a joy to drive. You can and I have left a light spinning the tires a little bit and easily chirping 2nd gear just for fun. Just returned from my 1st road trip, and you can happily lock the cruise at 85 on the hwy, and it's rock solid, even at 90 or 95. Plenty of power, great transmission, even has enough low end torque to put it in 6th gear at "50 mph," put the seat all the way back and contentedly roll up and down the gentle curving hills of Hwy 16 from West Jefferson, NC to Wilkesboro, and the engine is happy as a clam and never lugs or moves off that 50mph cruise set.
I used to want the NB so much and then the ND only because it's new but after trying the NC I think it's the best of all of the generations combined, comfort and size and handling all in good amounts.
Love the respect for the NC! I have a 2.5L swapped 2007 Miata and I absolutely love it. Such a versatile car, im glad everyone's starting to appreciate it more
@Darlton Benson - mind if I ask what lump the 2.5 is please??
Has it been reliable? I'm think of 2.5 swapping mine
@@CosmicSeeker69
It’s the motor off the Mazda6 and Ford Fusion. It’s almost a direct fit, you need to use the original oil pan. It’s a cost effective solution when the original 2.0 dies out and the 2.5 has a lot more torque.
@@Leo-rt5dt
It appears so, you don’t really hear about the Mazda6 with engine issues. A low mileage 2.5 is just a sedan used motor.
the thing is just adorable. all of the elements on this car just agree with each other. the designers really knew what they were doing
I own a 2010 MX5 NC. I love my car. And I've watched every video about the MX5 on RUclips. This video is right at the top. Well done.
I bought the 2008 Mazda MX-5 PRHT Grand Touring model in the color...."Highland Green", and I have to tell ya, this car will make you feel like you are finally living the good life. Not only does it look amazing, it's comfortable for longer drives, it gives you confidence. The wife thinks I won the lottery. I have to hide the keys now.
The nc was also my favourite (along with the na)
It's just so good looking
I agree, NC takes design cues from the NA, while the ND is a modern interpretation of the NB.
Simple design, I like the pill shape, and with the exception of missing pop ups it’s a much better car than my NA.
The long hood reminds me of the S2000 from some angles
Great looking NC. Serious ding in that rim at 1:50 though.
I got an NC2 to drive it daily, and it is a blast. Following the Lotus philosophy, I just added lightness, and now it is so much more fun.
What did you “add”? 😂
I absolutely agree! I love the NC both pre and post facelift. It’s taunt and purposeful surfaces make the ND look pudgy and slow. The hood bulge/chamfer is my favorite detail.
Love my NC, such a capable little car. Happy they’re still so underrated and fairly inexpensive to get.
You posted this video 9 days ago which is about the same day I bought my 2022 ND MX5.
Everything you said is 100% truth, they are fun cars to drive. I'm loving mine so far. I got the soft top and having a full convertible makes for a great driving experience. I also have a manual transmission.
You can't find many cars these days that are naturally aspirated, manual and rear wheel drive that are this affordable.
I enjoyed watching your video as I like the styling of the NC Miata's. Kudos!
@1:50 there is a warped wheel. I would get new wheels for safety reasons. (Put on factory wheels. They look better anyway)
M47, 2022. In 2019 I finally decided to get one. The OG is all I ever wanted but over the years I realised I must have had perfectionism and obsolutism that slowly left me. I never liked the NC styling due to how it wimped out on the ibuki concept design. But I drove NAs and NCs and saw that the NC was clearly the better drive and ownership choice. I've driven 50 thousand k in mine since.
I've always appreciated the way the cockpit looks so small and distinct in the PRHT version. I passed on one before spending a lot more on a 370Z and kind of regret it. The NC has its drawbacks but for anyone wanting an affordable powered hardtop it's a no-brainer. The ND is definitely sexier but the RF Targa top is a pretty big compromise and the price is still a bit steep for many.
I didn't like the PHRT or the NC in general but ended up in a soft top 06 in 2019 after driving a few models and thinking about it. Then, it turned out my MX5 mechanic has an auto PRHT loaner. It changed my mind. If that hard roof and an auto box would make someone consider an MX5 when they otherwise wouldn't/couldn't, I realized they were Good Things.
Finally somebody who says it. Nicer interior, more space (im 16 and can’t sit comfortably in the previous gens), stock widebody and dual tale pipes. Thanks
What you need to know is the NC is derived from the bones of the RX-8. That means a great chassis. Roomier than all other generations!
My dream car was this. Then I got one…… didn’t disappoint love it so much. Best car I’ve ever owned.
My father test drove this once and spun with it. He said he’s never driven anything like it before. Being rwd and very lightweight
Very tail happy car
@@Bembli Mine came used with beaten tires and was spinning on almost every green light. But when I installed a grippy set of tires it refused to spin and now is a perfect daily in all conditions. Absolute blast though when you kick the clutch!
Either keep the nannies on or get some experience driving at the limits and beyond. The more driving skills you have, the more fun the MIata will offer.
@@mikeb9569 I believe you
From Japan!
I bought mx-5 nc last year
I can bought new Mx-5 but I don’t bought because this model is the best car.
I like the rear design and electric hardtop！
Just bought an ND. Got to admit NC is really cute. 🥰 Especially after the facelift. Don't get why so many dislike it😂
I’ve had one for 5 years and couldn’t be happier. My 2007 fits me like a pair of jeans. Just add a magnaflow and you’re all set!
I always felt the NC was a slightly more solid car then the other versions.
Just picked up a 2010 NC GT PRHT 6MT. I am in love with my boat 🤣
I still sometimes miss the sheer simplicity of my NA. Few if any electronic nannies (except the seatbelt warning buzzer). I don't miss the rust and the oldness of things constantly having to be repaired or replaced. I nearly cried when I sold it, but without planning to I bought an NC to replace it. I love the modernity of the NC. Everything that needs to work on the NC works better. And I don't really want to pay stupid money to go back to an NA or NB.
I bought my NA when it was 17 yrs old; it had slow or non-working power windows, carb-clogged EGR valve and intake passage, idle droop, badly faded paint, etc. I fixed all of those things and many more (like the timing belt, water pump, radiator), it still had rockers rusted to the point of non-existence.
I bought my NC when it was about 12yrs old, and it's now about 17 yrs old, but has none of those issues. It had clogged rear drains; I cleared those, took out the seats and carpet and the water-damaged padding, and fixed a few dime-sized rust holes which had developed in the floorpan. I upgraded the stereo and installed a subwoofer. I added an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Not much else other than that in nearly 5 years of ownership. I just replaced the master & slave cylinder and cracked clutch pedal (I probably only needed to do that as the cylinders weren't leaking). Hasn't needed any engine or transmission work (but I think it's time I changed out the fluid).
That test car looks a LOT like te one in my Driveway , a total joy every day I get to drive it , small well handling with a decent turn of speed when worked through the gears - Long may it live
Couldn't agree more (bc I've got the exact model you show here too... nc2, 2.0, with the sports exhaust, adjustable coilovers and a lsd, plus the folding hardtop) great choice, sir! 👍
I like the fully hidden hardtop. I just purchased an ND softtop. Mostly chose the softop because the ND hardtop isn’t fully hidden.
I have an NC in black. I always surprise people when i open the top as they think it's a coupe because the lines are so clean
Yup. I just picked up a low mile NC hardtop for that reason. The ND (RF) looks like T-tops to me.
@@charlesbyers6911 I totally agree
My 2015 nc club has been my absolute favorite car. I had a mkiii supra and a z31 300zx so that says a lot
I have a 2011 kendo mx5 nc2 and i love it, will never sell it. Makes me smile every day. Nice review. Yep its a must for people who love to drive, drive to smile... john
I love my 2009 NC GT….best car I have owned….and so right about how much fun to drive. And you’re right about the value….bought mine use and I can sell it for a lot more than I paid for it. But is a keeper, going to give it to one of the kids when I’m older.
What makes if more fun is that we have winters here and its NOT driven then so it sits in the garage for summer waiting for me. I also never drive it in the rain as I only drive it top down.
NC hibernates during the winter. More smiles per kilometers with petrol price$.
Before I bought my ND2, I was super torn between it and the NC3 club model. The NC is great, possibly the best suspension design out of any Miata, pretty much the same as the RX8 suspension design. I know the newer models (NC / ND) don't get as much hype as the older models but they are far superior in handling, and just outright performance in general. And the soft top NC is not nearly as much heavier than anybody thinks it is.
I use to own an NA. But I'm really looking forward to finding the perfect NC miata. The interior looks so clean to me and it just looks classy overall imo
I've had an 06 for 3 years, no regrets. But I watched the savage geese doco on them and discovered that the later years got some seriously useful improvements. That guy loves cars and his chat with the US Mazda guy with one up on a hoist ... worth a look!
ruclips.net/video/bslB_4JIKs0/видео.html
Compared all four generations two years ago, and wound up buying the NC-1 that I found with only 24k miles. Best car in the lineup in my opinion. A faithful extension to the spirit and style of the NA and NB with a bit more room and a good power upgrade for the 2.0L. The ND departed a bit too much from the prior three generations, and I don't need all the bells and whistles (infotainment screen) while carving mountain twisties. Just give me a solid analog car with low weight and perfect balance (and a 6 speed stick).
The bent rim had me screaming 1:51
1:51
I love the Frank Stephenson and Doug DeMuro approach to this video! And yeah! I think the NC is just the perfect balance as modern [the front end and interior] and retro [the rear end]
The only Miata’s I can fit in pretty comfortably are the NC and ND. The NC design is like a modernized NA. The ND looks great but lost some of that happy design
@@Bembli the nd looks kinda like a confused cat (yes im talking about that white meme cat)
I love my 2012 as much today as I did when it was new. It really does beat all others in smiles per gallon.
Love my NC1. So classic.
My (since 2017) 2006 NC is finally going to hit the big 100,000 milestone. I'm so proud of it!
I'm surprised you have never done a video on the ND design! Mazda's recent design language has been really on point compared to all the overstyled cars from every other Japanese brand.
I agree. The NC is the best. Hydraulic vs electric in the ND is a huge difference. Also, the exhaust is a deal breaker from the ND.
I bought a dark blue NC to replace my ageing 2002 NB. But though it looked beautiful, it was the NC I sold six months later, and stuck to the NB. On the open road the NC was better, but around town the NB is more nimble, and that's what I love about MX5s. The NB has done 325,000km and is still going strong (though I am gentle with it).
I agree with your assessment. The NC might actually be considered more of a Grand Tourer as Miatas go.
As a fellow NB owner. Glad you kept the better gen 😉
Thanks for adding your size at the end. JUST began my search for an NC and at 6'2, 205, I was wondering if I could even fit in it. Owned 2 Triumph TR-6's back in the mid' 70's and they had plenty of room in the footwells so I was hoping the Miata would feel roughly the same.
Was honestly waiting for you to film yourself behind the car and say *"Thissssss is the Miata NC"*
Im gonna get a lot of hate for saying this but the NC mx5 (pre facelift) is my favourite Miata....
Same, and then it's the face-lifted one.
No you are not --- that was designed very much as an homage to the NA. The later NC's do have better engine internals and are somewhat lowered though.
I agree my daily is a 2008 NC and I love it!
@@rembo183 That has some improvements over the 2006-2007 years.
My cousin is pretty cool and was always fast.
All the Miatas have their plusses and minuses. In the end, I believe the NC2 provides the most flexibility in terms of comfort and upgradeability. I'd rather get a 2022 Toyota GR86 than upgrade to a ND2; until then I'll enjoy my supercharged NC2.
Mine: stock 2006 NC GX ragtop, automatic, mica grey metallic, OEM rear lip spoiler and splash guards, Michelin Pilot tires. I'm 72, my wife is 70 and we can still get in and out of it with no issues. This sports car will stay in the "family" indefiately.
Had a 91 miata back when I was a kid and it kept going despite the fact that I didn't take care of it very well. 59 years old now and needed a new ride and thought back to how reliable and easy to work on that 91 was and went out and grabbed a 2013 NC. No regrets and it appears to be just as reliable and easy to work on as that 91. I actually prefer the body style of the NC compared to the newer models so there might be a chance that this NC might be the last car I ever need to buy. Have plenty of time to take care of one now too. Added bonus is I have not gotten any "hairdresser/chick car" comments with the NC so far.
i'm planning on buying one tomorrow! i'm really excited to drive it. it is a 1.8 tho but as someone who hasn't much experience driving high HP cars, i'm not too worried on missing out on anything.
I absolutely love my 2012 NC2 special edition. Even more so after header, Fab9 Tune, Meister coilovers, and muffler delete. It’s stupid good! I love all generation Miata’s. But the NC is just… special.
I agree that the NC is the best looking Miata design this far. Seems cleaner, more consistent, and more elegant than the ND.
And happier!
I used to have an NA now I have an 2016 ND GT and in my opinion I think it looks better than the NC. The NC looks more like an OG Miata and is a nice take on the classic design but I prefer the sharper more aggressive lines on the ND. It's small and nitpicky but the fact that the ND got fender mounted turn signals for the first time in the NA market really made the look of the car for me. I think the ND design language gives it a more worldly and European look while still being clearly a Miata from 100 feet away. Atleast to me.
I do really like the NC too though. It's not that much bigger in all honesty than the other Miata's like some people make them out to be. My dad has a 2011 NC PRHT model as well and he loves it. I've driven it a few times and prefer the hydraulic power steering to my electric power steering in the ND but I can tell that by all other metrics the ND is the better performing car.
At the end of the day no matter what Miata you buy I don't think you'll be dissatisfied as long as you can fit in it lol. Atleast that's what I tell people.
Sure would like to know where he found that rear lip spoiler. The PHRT rear lip spoiler is more rare than hen’s teeth. Mazda USA didn’t offer this as an option for the PHRT.
As someone who is 6’6”, the NC is also my fave. It also is the only one I can fit into easily.
This is gonna become on of those “I wish I bought one when they were cheap” cars 😭
We got a Miata NC before knowing the "Miata purists" hate it. The purists don't like the extra space and couple hundred extra pounds. They hate the glove box, knee vents, larger trunk and extra leg room apparently. Whatever. We don't give a S@@@ what anyone thinks of the NC, we think it is the best by far as it is the most practical for us. We plan to take long road trips in it, something you can't do in the other generations. The trunk in the other generations might only be large enough to put a pair of shoes in.
I bought one this weekend and pick it up on Saturday I'm so excited 😁 I loved my NB, I'm feeling good about the NC
My man I was a bit annoyed you didn’t rev it out - but your sketch made up for it! -nice artwork
I always wanted a miata after I got out of high-school something about a small car, tons of mods, even up to an ls swap. Well thank God when I was 31 i was able to get a NB and I don't think I will ever get rid of it.
I've got a 2017 ND RF, and I'm a bit jealous of a couple of things. This hardtop drops completely away, while mine is essentially a Targa top. Safety I guess, but I'd rather have this top. The info screen here looks more integrated, mine looks like an afterthought, and doesn't function all that well.
I think some people like the idea of an open top, but don't like the feeling of being completely exposed that comes with a traditional convertible top.
I have a 2008 5 speed manual, my first manual car and the one learned manual transmission, I really like it
Looks like your right front alloy wheel is bent. My cousin has an NC 2.0L that I drove many times, while it is a great car I definitely prefer my ND2 2.0L, lots more power, lighter, better handling. I had 240Z, an NSX, a 2008 Lotus Elise R, an NB 1999 10th Anniversary, a 2016ND1 and now an ND2 184. Thanks for the video.
I have not watched this video yet and I already agree. Proud owner of a 2012 special edition and going from a 91 you do miss the pop-up up-and-down headlights but everything else is identical
I own an M C Miata in the UK I love it , they are still really popular in the UK 👍🏼
I think the NC might be my favorite Miata. I like that it is bigger!
That was a good review. If you like that car, you will like the 2001 BMW 330i. It came in both 2 door and 4 door, 5 speed manual, 3 litre inline 6 cylinder, 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds, which is still reasonably quick in 2023. It also was available as a convertible. The sport package tightened up the suspension and it sat an inch lower.
But it cost twice the price to get the bmw in fine condiction😂 bmw is a good car and I love it. But it just too expensive to fix all the broken part and not everyone could afford it.
This was the first car my twin bought. It's such a fun car. My first RWD car was the E46 330i, both are great, fun driving cars.
Miata gang rise up ✊
Hey man just had some thoughts on your review. Maybe try to drive the car on a twisty canyon road so we get an impression of how the car handles and feels. Driving it on flat straight regular streets doesn't really give us a picture of how the car would preform other than in a daily driving scenario. Love the vids tho!
Honestly, it feels a bit different than the previous generations of Miatas, a bit less 'go-carty', but it does great in the twisties. And it feels noticeably more torque.
I drive one as a daily 100 kilometers a day over autobahn.
I absolutely love it and people love it aswell that see me in it!
It's a great car.
It just was extremely quiet by factory so u couldn't here any engine sound when reving with roof down. A sports exhaust fixes it and it also makes pops now :D
The automatic version of this NC is awesome as well! Like a go-cart
Absolutely love my 2008 GT Hard Top. For the price it's a no brainer for fun and reliability and parts are dirt cheap to keep this thing moving!
I drive a gun metal grey 2014 MX 5 NC. A ten second car. It came out of the box race ready with Le Mans paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Every time I drive it I'm in a James Bond movie. When people see it they ask, 'does it have machine guns behind the fog lights?' The license plate reads 009. It's definitely licensed to kill. Does a 'drift' nicely.
Q branch read out, race ready with paddle shifters. A ten second car, does 0 to 100 mph in ten seconds. Double wish bone suspension and drive while flat tires makes her a nimble cat with tough paws. The body is made of rust resistant steel and carbon fiber (Kevlar) material. It has quarter inch metal armor under the engine and transmission. Stainless steel exhaust. A seven speaker Boise sound system keeps the Bond theme music coming thru 5 by 5.
I have a NC 08 PRHT M6 daily driver for 7 years. Not one thing went wrong with it. It's the most fun you can have, and I have owned 981 Cayman, C7, ZL1, Mustangs etc. I love the car more each day. I will be buried in this car!
That's a nasty buckle at 1:50 haha
8:35 ... "I need to get something like this..." I hear this sentiment all the time from car reviewers, even the well-known ones. They all admire and enjoy the Miata, and I don't think any of them have a bad word to say about the Miata, but they don't own one. Why is that? The only highly popular car enthusiast that I can think of that actually owns a Miata is Jay Leno. All the rest talk about it, love driving it, but don't actually own one! For the reviewer here, instead of saying I need to get something "like this" how about saying ... I'm going to get an NC Miata! Or tell us all why you hesitant about getting one! - Cheers!
In 2020 I bought a 2011 PRHT special edition in Dolphin Grey with light grey leather seats, so much fun I can hardly stand it, I drive an XC90 with my kids during the week and it's fine but this one brings a smile to my face every time :)
2008, smiles every time too.
The NC Miata has always been my favorite generation, especially pre-facelift. The elegance of the NA with added muscularity. Could never get why some people hate on them.
the answer to everything
This one looks seriously good in black with those wheels and lowered suspension too 👌
That is one hell of a bend on that wheel rim at 1:53! Wow. Ouch.
Sitting in my NC, phone on the steering wheel, watching this video has definitely confirmed my already stable belief that I will NEVER sell this car. I will revive it time and time again to make sure it is mine forever.
Best Miata design. End of discussion. 👍
Hi
I'm a happy owner of
2011 MX5 nc FI , 54,000 k"m
KRAFTWERKS SUPERCHARGED (about 10psi boost )
TOMEI camshafts
Complete exhaust system (including 1.8 no cat header)
Lightweight flywheel
MOTO-EAST intek
JOYFAST high spark ignition coils
BC-RACING coilovers
Tuned by MIKE from MOTO-EAST
And much more ....!
The best Toy ever !
Hi dude, like the content. Took
The plunge, and bought one, a
Week ago. I smile, a lot. I went all
In. New exhaust, tyres, brake pads,
its quick enough for me. 👍
Am very broke now lalol 😂
I bought a 2015 last year in silver. My only thoughts have been “ should have done it sooner “ . And yes, they are getting harder to find and more $$.
Love the NC Miata. It's like the handsome half British half Japanese brother secret agent of the Miata family. Wear a suit and you'd still look good in it.
Just picked up a 2010 GT w 69k miles 2 months ago, I love it !
Same. 66k. My first miata. I'm in love.
I am owner of 07 nc and I really love the car. Once Miata always Miata 👍🏻
Before I was really into Miata's and anything without a roof was just a convertible to me, I was totally in love with the NC. I liked the design because it reminded me a bit of a Jaguar XK. The NA/NB had not interested me at all at that time... fast forward 5 years and I despise the NC and the only true Miata's for me are the NA and NB.
Gatekeeping isn't growth you know... speaking from someone who owns an NB and my dad owns an NC I'd say they're both great cars.
Have you ever driven a Miata ?
@@lusathegreat6300 Jep, I own a NB.
I agree and its probably one of the best sports car baragins going right now.
It’s funny. I didn’t even know I was supposed to hate the NC until I really got into Miatas and purchased an NB.
Thank you very much! Liked, subscribed and shared. My absolute favorite RUclips channel by far.
NC is the best looking , bent wheel and all the other steering components