100% agree, Austin. I had a 2019 Fiesta ST for only a couple of months because I found it didn't have the amenities I wanted in a daily driver, no matter how much fun it was. Traded it in on a 2023 Mazda3 Turbo hatch. Similarly, I wanted to get out of my 2022 Camaro 2SS 1LE (which was just my weekend fun car) and decided to go for a 2024 MX-5. I looked at the GR86 but decided even that was too practical as I didn't need the extra 2 seats (no matter how small they might be), and I didn't need any of the additional storage. A WRX is great as a do-it-all car, but for a pure fun weekend car there are so many better choices, IMO.
@@Gonin60 I haven't driven the MX-5 much, since I've been fully detailing it, adding parts and accessories, etc. but since the engine hasn't changed since I had my 2020 model, I can somewhat compare. The Mazda3 hatch is a bit more workaday, with not a lot of personality. It's pretty smooth, and got that nice turbo punch when you put your foot in it, but it doesn't have much character. As far as sheer power though, it feels really good and I haven't had any complaints in my day-to-day usage. The MX-5 engine is much more lively, and one you really like to ring out. It actually makes the car quicker than you'd expect when you hear the name "Miata", and (at least in the ND2 and up) has some nice push as you climb higher into the rev range. Like all good naturally aspirated engines, the power builds in a nice linear fashion, and it's in general a lot more fun engine to play with. Two different cars though. The Mazda3 Turbo is a great daily driver, with a smooth engine that's pretty unobtrusive unless you ask for the power, at which point it has no trouble delivering. The MX-5 makes you work for it, but it's such a joy to use (in combination with their fantastic manual transmission) that it's something you look forward to, and is all part of the fun of driving the car.
@@Gonin60 You should definitely try to get a drive in one if nothing else. If you're ever going to be in my neck of the woods let me know and you can take mine for a spin!
This is helpful. Can't fault the logic; however, the final decision for a "weekend car" (aka "discretionary fun car") ...at least for me...has a hefty emotional component. The main question I must answer is...do I want revs (NA flat 4) or torque (NA V8)...decisions, decisions 😂
100% agree, Austin. I had a 2019 Fiesta ST for only a couple of months because I found it didn't have the amenities I wanted in a daily driver, no matter how much fun it was. Traded it in on a 2023 Mazda3 Turbo hatch. Similarly, I wanted to get out of my 2022 Camaro 2SS 1LE (which was just my weekend fun car) and decided to go for a 2024 MX-5. I looked at the GR86 but decided even that was too practical as I didn't need the extra 2 seats (no matter how small they might be), and I didn't need any of the additional storage. A WRX is great as a do-it-all car, but for a pure fun weekend car there are so many better choices, IMO.
Agree! How does the power on your hatch feel
Vs your MX5? I know they are completely different cars but I’m just curious.
@@Gonin60 I haven't driven the MX-5 much, since I've been fully detailing it, adding parts and accessories, etc. but since the engine hasn't changed since I had my 2020 model, I can somewhat compare.
The Mazda3 hatch is a bit more workaday, with not a lot of personality. It's pretty smooth, and got that nice turbo punch when you put your foot in it, but it doesn't have much character. As far as sheer power though, it feels really good and I haven't had any complaints in my day-to-day usage.
The MX-5 engine is much more lively, and one you really like to ring out. It actually makes the car quicker than you'd expect when you hear the name "Miata", and (at least in the ND2 and up) has some nice push as you climb higher into the rev range. Like all good naturally aspirated engines, the power builds in a nice linear fashion, and it's in general a lot more fun engine to play with.
Two different cars though. The Mazda3 Turbo is a great daily driver, with a smooth engine that's pretty unobtrusive unless you ask for the power, at which point it has no trouble delivering. The MX-5 makes you work for it, but it's such a joy to use (in combination with their fantastic manual transmission) that it's something you look forward to, and is all part of the fun of driving the car.
@@saviordream great write up and that makes a lot of sense. I need to own a Miata! I wish Mazda brought back the speed 3 in some form or fashion
@@Gonin60 You should definitely try to get a drive in one if nothing else. If you're ever going to be in my neck of the woods let me know and you can take mine for a spin!
@@saviordream would love that!!
My girl has had a wrx as her first manual car for over a year and she loves it
It’s a great car!
This is helpful. Can't fault the logic; however, the final decision for a "weekend car" (aka "discretionary fun car") ...at least for me...has a hefty emotional component. The main question I must answer is...do I want revs (NA flat 4) or torque (NA V8)...decisions, decisions 😂
Haha go V8!
Hard choice but I lean more Toyota
I agree
GR86 every single day.
I agree