I have driven both these cars. You cant go wrong with either, but here are a few similarities and differences from my perspective. 1. They are the two best drivers cars on the market. Period. They are the top two cars for backroads. 2. They are among the top 10 drivers cars (backroads, not track monsters) ever made. 3. The 86 is heavier but you get a lot more practicality and it can be a one car solution for a single person or couple. 4. The 86 is much more track ready off the shelf esp with the Performance Pack. The MX5 will need coilovers so add another $1500 plus (and install) on a car thats already more expensive 5. The 86 has more torque and easier to slide around 6. The MX5 has much better driver inputs - steering feel, shifter, clutch, brakes, throttle responsiveness and mapping 7. The MX5 is likely more reliable long term 8. The fuel consumption of MX5 is much better 9. The MX5 does feel a fair bit more agile, BUT, the 86 is second only to that car 10. The MX5 feels like its made with higher quality parts and interior (more premium)
Goddamn, WELL said! This is the comment that could supersede every comparison on RUclips. The BR86Z is really just the 2nd to none, except for the Miata, car. And in exchange for that small additional bit it weight, which costs you agility and dynamics, the twins are far more usable as a single solution. That is the cars secret weapon. Miata is ALWAYS the answer, unless you simply don’t have an option and don’t have access to a 2nd vehicle.
I agree with everything HOWEVER, from what I’ve found, the MX-5 goes for less money than the GR and I don’t think a suspension upgrade is necessary unless you’re going to track the car (then 100%)!
@Realistick agreed. However, spec for spec MX5 is pricey, esp with the ND3 price bump. GR86 PP is about 34k, MX5 Club with Brembo package about 38K. I call it the convertible premium but the MX5 does feel more premium. Eitherway I voted with my wallet and a club ND3 with BBR is on order for me and should be arriving in July. Its going to better than the 2006 S2000 CR that I almost bought new haha. Esp once I put some MCS coilovers and race exhaust.
Me and my lil bro are both into JDM's since childhood. He always liked the Miata and now has an MX-5 and I like the AE86 and got myself the GR86. I'm 41 and he's 36, we both have no families so we had the option get them as our daily drivers. WE love your cars.
I own a miata, and it also has more of a wow factor. Since i bought it in December, I've had multiple people calling out compliments just while driving down the road. You feel like you're in an exotic car even tho i got a fully loaded 2021 with 25000 miles for $25k
Just bought a Trueno edition GR86, spectacular fun factor so far, my cousin got an mx5 at the same time. Fair eval of the pros and cons, there is no wrong answer with either car imo
I have a 2.0 gr Supra and I get hyped seeing any gr car the trueno edition is dope af imo I didn’t really like the 1st gen but the second gen is awesome imo
I'm sorry you wasted money on a 2.0 Supra. Could have saved over $10k and gotten a base GR86 w/ "performance package" that has Brembo brakes, SACHS dampers, and 18in wheels.
@@tyrantrex734 naw not a waste it’s my daily I don’t need all that I don’t go to the track also everyone else loves the car too if i was worried about saving 10k I would have went with something more practical like the new Prius and if I didn’t care how much I spent I would have went with the 3.0
I owned a 2018 BRZ and a 2020 MX-5. I've also driven the new generation GR86. But when it came time for me to buy a new weekend fun car this year I ended up going back to a 2024 MX-5. Ordered a Club soft top with the BBR package at the end of January and picked it up about a month ago. Both are great choices, and I don't think you could go wrong with either. For me it came down to the fact that I didn't need the extra practicality of the GR86, as this is just a weekend toy for me, and I was looking for fun more than anything. The MX-5 is enjoyable at any speeds, whether just cruising around or attacking a backroad, and the open top nature of the car just adds to the experience.
Personally I like the looks of the Mazda a little more. I own a BRZ and love it. 2 origami kayaks and gear fit in there and my daughter and I have a blast. My wife and daughter, both on the small side, can be passengers. A fourth would be impossible. There is also plenty of aftermarket stuff available for the GR86/BRZ. Both are great.
Best car channel when it comes to describing the minute subjective and objective details of the characteristics and feel of these cool cars. And thank u for not saying every aspect of these popular cars are perfect or amazing. After watching your reviews, I feel like I just got done test driving and now I’m ready to make a purchase hahaha
Being able to put the top down on a beautiful day or warm night more than makes up for any shortcomings in this comparison. It simply flips a switch in your brain, performance stops even mattering, and might as well be like having two different cars in one.
I went with a 2024 BRZ Limited over these options for a few reasons. #1) I prefer the interior space of the GR86/BRZ. #2). The motor is nearly 100% Subaru (so I would rather have a Subaru mechanic work on the engine (if need be). #3). The BRZ can be ordered as you want for sticker price; while the Toyota marks up above sticker price and won’t let you spec out your order.
The RF is incredibly handsome, gets ridiculously good fuel economy even when driven in town and revved out, economy is unreal on smooth highway driving, and every trip is fun. Plus the small fuel tank is cheap to fill up.
I’ve been daily driving a 2018 Miata GT for 4 years, and I still love it. Manual transmission is a must. I’m surprised how many people don’t know what it is. I live in the land of exotic cars (South Florida), yet the Miata feels like it’s not class dependent. I’ve even seen the valet park it right next to the Ferraris and Rolls Royces at the local mall (yes, they shop there too).
Great comparison! Opinions on styling is subjective, the GR looks sporty and the MX-5 looks that way also, but adds a uniqueness that makes it standout.
Being a GR86 owner with extensive experience behind the wheel of my friend's ND2 Miata RF, I will fully admit that the Miata is more fun. However, I needed the practicality of the GR86 as it's my only car and the GR86 came in that gorgeous Neptune Blue while the Miata is stuck with boring colors. If I had something like a CX-30 as a daily driver, I definitely would've gone with the Miata though. My main complaint about the Miata was that the speedometer is pretty much unreadable because everything is so scrunched together, you're never gonna go 160 mph in a Miata. The Miata has a digital screen in the instrument cluster but for some reason Mazda never put a digital speedometer there.
@@bobreno4042 Yeah but I'm more of a bright blue person. I can appreciate soul red but red just isn't my thing and it's also the color that triggers cops the most lol
I've got a similar complaint about the 86/BRZ (I've got a 2012 BRZ) - analogue speedo going to 260 Km/h is...optimistic (even with a HKS supercharger kit fitted) and hard to read. Fortunately it has a digital speed readout in the rev counter so I only need to look at that.
Compared to the MX-5 the Toyobaru twins not only return far inferior fuel mileage, they're also saddled by Subaru and Toyota with a recommendation for 93-octane Premium, whereas Mazda only recommends 91 for the MX-5. For a lot of people that's not a problem, but California and many other states don't offer 93-octane fuel. According to Subaru and Toyota, yes, the motor will run safely on lower octanes, but at the cost of reduced power, lower fuel mileage, and occasional knocking and pinging. That's largely why I ended up getting another MX-5 instead of the GR86 I was allocated, and it's also why I ended up getting the 91-octane Type R over the 93-octane Type S. There were other reasons as well, obviously, but in the case of the GR86 that was the primary one, since I'm in California. Otherwise, yep, except for the crappy fuel mileage the GR86 is the slightly faster, flatter cornering car that makes for a better daily driver, while the Miata-assuming one can fit in it-is the better built, more engaging and fun niche vehicle with a much nicer interior. Betwen the two, the Miata feels far more "special." There is quite a bit more sense of occasion with the MX-5, and that feeling never wears off. Plus, it's a true convertible, which renders moot any comparisons between the MX-5 and anything with a fixed roof. The open-air aspect of the extremely lightweight and tossable MX-5 absolutely changes the equation, making for an entirely more satisfying and immersive experience. Get a Miata out on a perfect coastal road, or ripping around up in the forest, or cruising through a starlit desert at night...there is simply no comparison. You savor the difference, and fully appreciate where your hard-earned money went.
If you want a convertible, the MX5 is clearly the one to go for. However I now own a BRZ, I used to have an MX5 convertible - would not buy one again as got the top knifed twice by people trying to steal it. I would consider the MX5 RF as it solves that problem to a large extent, but no good for me as I cannot fit in it (whereas I can get into the BRZ ok). Re driving, the BRZ feels like a go kart, which is awesome, pretty harsh ride quality (2012 BRZ with HKS suspension note), but lots of fun factor.
The 86 back seats aren’t as useless as everyone makes them out to be. I’ve taken adults on ~20 minute trips across town just need to scoot your seat up a bit. You’re not going on a road trip and you’re not getting someone that’s 6’5” back there but for most normal sized people it works in a pinch
I couldn’t think of putting anyone behind me, if I was like 6 inches shorter, maybe… in a pinch if i pushed myself to the dashboard! It’s more convenient than not having them. But I get why folks would call them useless.
Holy crap, that was a great comparison review. In terms of sheer thoroughness that manages to touch on nearly everything a potential buyer would want to know, I think I can now say with confidence that you're the best reviewer out there, bar none. Some people cover the hard data, specs, and flashy tech very comprehensively. Others tend to eschew all that, figuring their viewers can read a brochure on their own, and they focus primarily on the intangibles, the overall impressions, how a car feels. You combine those two approaches better than anyone. savagegeese come close, but even they aren't as thorough overall as you are, and they're definitely not as consistently thorough. Sometimes they tend to mail it in, relatively speaking. You never fail to give full effort in every review. It's like Michael Jordan once explained late in his career, when asked why he still gives such maniacal effort every time he steps on the court... "Every night, I know there will be someone in that arena who is seeing me play for the first time. I won't give them anythng less than my best."
Test drove both a month ago. The GR86 had me grinning. The Miata not as much. Was offered the GR86 below dealer invoice. The Miata was several thousands of dollar more than the Toyota . Got the GR86. Was a no brainer.
That’s a strange experience. Great job getting such a deal on your new car! Toyota dealerships have a bad reputation for up pricing. They must have been short on a quota.
Great review! In 2024, the miata is 530 to 465lbs lighter. 2024 GR86 is 2,811 to 2,868lbs 2024 MX-5 is 2,341 to 2,403lbs In Japan, the lightest miata is the 990S Special Edition: 2,182lbs (1.5L engine). Bought my miata in 2020 when they only had the 1st gen 86. The 2nd gen would have been tempting with the improved linear engine. I'm still happy with my miata's weight, fun, and mpgs (35mpg work commute).
I own a 16 year old Mazda Miata with 190k miles on the odometer with no issues. Both cars are excellent, we should all be grateful that these are available in this day of crossovers and automatics, won’t mention electrification. Enjoy the road!
Great two options for most fun per $. For CA weather the Miata is a clear winner, as most of the year it’s not too hot or too cold or too humid for open-air. If you live in less ideal weather, I’d pick the 86 if I forced to own only one car.
I've driven both of these cars many times and here's what I think... As an only car, the the 86 wins simply because it's more practical. However, as a 2nd car, which is the case for me, the Miata wins hands down because you get similar performance and feedback as the 86, but you also get a more sophisticated design, better overall build quality, and the open top experience, which takes it to another level. I strongly prefer the Miata overall, which is why I just purchased a ND3 Miata GT MT soft top. I've had it for 3 days and I've already done 300 miles. I look for any excuse I can dream up to go for a drive. This car is pure bliss on 4 wheels. I'm not a kid anymore so I really like its grown up styling and excellent long term reliability. Looking forward to owning this car for decades to come. That said, if I could only own one vehicle, I would have purchased a BRZ, not a GR86, because I prefer its more understated design and I hate how greedy Toyota has become and their dealership experience is rage inducing.
I second that. I've been shopping around, and the Toyota dealership wanted me to BUY a GR 86 without test driving it. Subaru just scheduled a test drive, no brainer. I'm pretty sold on a club soft top Miata though. Never thought I'd be into a convertible.
I have ordered a black club with the BBS Brembo package. I am a month into my four month wait… I have wanted one since 2016. I sprung for it this year because they may go hybrid next year and I want nothing to do with batteries as of yet. I currently have a 93 twin Turbo RX seven. I’ve had five Mazda in between including two Mazda speed prodigy CX 30 CX three and now MX five I’ve had great service with Mazda.. I will get mine delivered around my birthday and it’s probably be one of the best presents. I’ve gotten myself in years.
@@Eelgnotsa The 5th gen Miata will be a mild hybrid. It's already been confirmed by Mazda. I think it'll still be an amazing car, with a lot more power than the current model, but that's just not what I want personally. The Miata has never been about power. It's just about pure driving engagement, which doesn't require a ton of power. I love having a car that I can almost fully utilize on public roads without being reckless.
In Canada, the MX5 costs about 15% more than the BRZ (the Subaru badged GR86). I needed a daily and it was a no brainer to get the BRZ over the Miata in a climate that has snow. I would love to own an MX5, but I can’t afford a car that I can’t drive in the winter.
I think this video covered it really well, and I can see why people would like the GR-86 now. For me, it always felt very fake, but the reason for that is that I'm looking for constant engagement and fun, no matter the situation. But that's what I'M looking for, and other people aren't. Most people just want to get to work as easily and low effort as possible, and have fun when they want to have fun, not be forced to. A GR-86 looks like it can do that flawlessly. That's just not what I'm looking for, and it's that ability for it to just be a normal car that made it feel half baked to me. I do want to add something to the ND mx-5 experience, which for me is a downside: a lot of non-car people assume it's an exotic sports car. I'm not looking for attention, so it's been annoying on occasion. The gr-86 or brz, it's just a car to most people, and that's kind of a plus in my opinion. Only car people will really notice it.
I agree that if you’re buying a TOY… go with the MX-5. I test drove both but ultimately just purchased the GR86 (today in fact, delivery Monday) because it is more practical daily driver with the balls to pull out the sport moves when needed… But within the next two years I’ll be getting an MX-5 as an exclusive TOY… because I love both of these cars so much… I HAVE to own them both eventually. 😅
To me they both drive similarly enough, priced similarly enough, both beautiful for the price, but the miata has the party trick of a fold down roof and also better mpg’s so it’s the winner IMO unless you hate the idea of ever putting the roof down anyway and just want a track toy, or need microscopic back seats.
I wanted a GR86 for a while, being that it was the more practical option of the two; but like ya said on pricing - it was so stupid to pay what dealerships were asking for at the peak of the pandemic. I wound up going to Mazda when I realized that the dealers had a tendency to discount the MX-5’s. I wound up going home with a used 20’ RF GT for a decent price. Got one of the “affordable dream cars” for a decent price, and it’s been an absolute delight using this as my daily car for the last 2 years. In that time, I had needed a larger vehicle 3 times, none of which was a problem since everyone in my circle of friends and family has a larger vehicle by comparison, and an offer for some lunch or a fuel refill couldn’t solve for me. :) Maybe when life gets busier for me, I’ll move to a GR86 or BRZ.
As a single guy with only one car, my GR86 works perfect for me. I would have been stuck several times if I had a Miata for a daily. Having a back seat is very important if only just for cargo. The driving is of course fantastic. The changes I made were to turn off the fake engine noise and put in a 10" sub in the trunk. The poor MPG is the only thing I don't like about the car.
I have a 2005 mini cooper s convertible. I wanted to get the mx-5 soft top. However i was greatly surprised how much more significant road and wind noise there is in the mx-5. I think because even with my 18 year old roadster, the convertible top in my mini is multi-layer or have some sort of insulation material. As for road noise, I couldn’t pin point where the amount of noise is coming from. I even swapped the wheels and tires (same 4x100 bolt pattern) and did not matter. Makes me think if my mini has more insulation. I think i will go to the gr86 instead
aftermarket has soft top liner that greatly reduces road noise. But i dont care, as my top is down every time i drive. if its raining, i just drive the jeep. :-)
Excellent comparison video! I daily drove an ND1 Miata (soft top) for over four years. It's hands-down my favorite of the dozen or so cars I've owned. (All were daily drivers.) I've been looking at new GR86s in recent weeks, and though it's a great car, I'll probably buy another Miata instead. The MX-5 just feels special, plus I don't think it's as punishing to daily drive on bad roads, which we have plenty of where I live. But a big part of it is fuel economy. I'm on track to drive over 20,000 miles this year, and the difference between 25 vs. 35 mpg is huge, especially when you're buying premium gas. I'm fortunate that my wife drives an SUV, so I can still have my fun car and we have a larger vehicle to move bigger things in and for trips. :-)
Purchased an MX5 as a second car 6 months ago and couldn’t be happier. I looked at the GR86 and couldn’t understand why a lightweight car like that only gets 20 MPG city with most people getting 18-20 in the city. (So I’m talking about City MPG’s). I usually get 30-34 mpg in the Miata. I know gas mileage isn’t the primary reason for buying these cars, but still….The other thing that bothered me was the stick shift was so unnecessarily high which I found cumbersome and odd. Do you have any input as to why, for both of these traits? 💁♂️
I think the gear lever being high is to make it closer to the steering wheel (which is a bit high in the GR86), I don’t really know how Subaru made the 2.4l so inefficient though. Flat 4s aren’t known for sipping fuel but they’re usually frugal in Subarus. Congrats on the MX-5!
My lifetime average on my manual Miata is currently 33.2, and that's me actively trying to rev it out and even taking it in-town for chores. My friends see that and don't believe I'm driving... enthusiastically.... enough. Getting 38-42 on the highway is just all too common
Got an Mx-5. The only downsides are: it’s small, with limited space, (no glove box for instance), and the entertainment system is too slow - the sound is good from the audio system, but it can take minutes to recognise music on a USB stick.
To anyone watching this: I had a 2019 Miata. I sold it for a 2023 GR Corolla. I have been kicking myself every day for the past almost-2 years. Get a Miata. Drive it. Love it.
I like the Mazda MX-5 (RF version) over the GR86/BRZ, & it is the more mature/elegant of the two. Most of the color choices for the MX-5 though are pretty sad & drab IMO. Unbelievable that we can't buy a new one in Polymetal Gray Metallic (blue-gray color), as that is one of Mazda's best colors.
My Mazda3 is that. And while I like it, I'd rather they do a green, or a brighter blue. Yellow would be wild, or even a brighter take on Acura's Phantom Violet Pearl would im sure be excellent
I just got a 2024 86 with performance pack and I am in MD where there are no MSRP dealers. I still got MSRP minus the dealer processing but for how hard it is to find a performance pack, I'll take it. Still breaking the engine in but the car is planted on corners and its a bit more preppy than my f10 535i at low speeds.
and one has a lockable trunk, not a small thing, sometimes. With the trunk, your expensive--whatever, is not visible so it does not invite break-in as much. Second, if it is a firearm, that discretion also means you DO comply with laws in some areas, with no truck, you are in trouble from get go.
I rarely use my radio anymore since I have a cell phone and air pods.i would get rid of the radio and traction control. put more paint and some type of anti chipping layer on the car. the paint on the front of my 2019 Miata is badly pitted after five years and 90,000 of driving, but I did buy the Miata for driving as much as possible.
I'm 6'3 and could barely fit in a new Miata. The 86 is far more comfortable for me, plus the back seat and trunk have been extremely useful for using it as a daily driver.
A soft top variant of GR86 / roadster might’ve prevented me from buying my Miata. But wanted something different than the current wrx and the smiles per gallon could not be so different!
wouldn't a MX-5 RF be a better comparison? Top down option is a great option to have and probably used more than the backseat of the GR - as you say in your review, cheers!
I think if mazda made the car a little bigger, switched to a 2.5, got rid of the convertible and made the interior more "liveable" it would be the perfect car
The problem with the mx5 is that its roof is known to leak over time under rain. I was interested until I found about about that problem. For a day to day car and not only a sunny sunday pleasure car, in countries like Scotland, this makes it a no-go in my own opinion.
It shouldn't leak if the drains aren't clogged! After a decade or so, if you get a lot of sun, the weather stripping might give out and cause a leak but that's something you can replace.
@@Realistick well I read a lot of stories about that on Miata groups of discussions. Because it is a convertible car when it gets old gets a lot of play. Even people with RF versions have problems with that. Even the inventor of the Miata speaks about this on the Real Mechanic Stuff channel (Reacts videos)
Hardtop sports cars can be found in all price ranges. Wouldn't consider a low-powered hardtop like the GR86 with the Supra being a better sport car for additional money. The only convertible for the price and fun is hands down the MX-5! Miata is always the answer 🙂.
I wish dealers on the east coasts weren't so greedy. The lowest I found was $2,500 over MSRP for base with $2,000 of dealer addons. heartbreaking for a young car enthusiast
If you're talking about the Miata many Northeast dealers will sell at MSRP. 86 I saw 3-5k markups but that was back in 2022 and I would have thought they would have calmed down.
@@markcoopers1930 I’m talking about the GR86, I’m in the market for one but can’t find a dealer willing to sell a base for MSRP. I’m not a fan of the Subaru front end and the Miata is way too small for a daily. I’m going from a truck to a 2dr so the GR86 space is a must.
These two are the very best sports cars on sale full stop. Both, the GR 86 and MX-5 are incredibly fun and which one do you prefer? It depends on your taste :) But either option you have one of the best cars ever made. To me, the sports car market that actually excite me so much as to say I love them resumes to these two, 911 GT3 and 911 S/T, that's it. Edit: Oh, and my choice between these two is the GR 86, but I love them both! Your video came just in time since just Yesterday I was thinking about how awesome these two are :) You described them very well while going straight to the point: Interior, Driving Experience, Reliability. I loved that!
Only thing you get with the Toyobaru over MX5 is more storage. If storage is that important to you then you probably should not be looking at sportscars
As a GR86 owner for me this was finally a car similar to the MX5 but without it being a convertible, which I don't like. It might come as a shock to some people, but not the whole world likes convertibles. 😂 So the GR86 is perfect for me.
The RF is more coupe like (or feels like it when it’s up). I guess it’s not “technically” a coupe. I agree, I’m not a convertible guy either. Had an old MGB for a while and while the car was nice (but slow. Super. Super. slow) the seat’s being 4,000 F every time and I stepped out of it and got back in on a sunny day is not worth the 2 days of the year it’s the perfect temp to put the top down and cruise.
It's clear that you can't go wrong with any of those 2 gems, but the main problem of the MX-5 is that not everybody fit inside... Just watch the driver with top off in the las part of the video, where is his head and where are his legs!
I got GR86 , it was a very difficult decision for me between GR86 and Miata, I chose GR 86 for a few reasons. 1- Its engine is more powerful than Miatas, Miata is like a fast city car not sports car IMO, whereas GR86 is a proper entry level sports car. 2- GR86 has stronger character, it looks unique, its dashboard is unique, even some of its advantages and disadvantages are unique,whereas Miata looks like a standard Japanese car, when you look at it you feel like it's just another cool Japanese car whereas GR86 is GR86. 3- GR86 looks sharper and resembles other more expensive Sports cars(Lotus,Alpine,Aston Martin...etc) whereas Mazda looks more like a fun/cool city car. 4- Last but not least I love Toyota, my last two cars were Toyota Aygo and Toyota Aygo X, I have good relationship with Toyota dealers and Toyota finance so finding a brand new GR86 and getting the part Exchange with my Aygo X and new finance deal sorted was fairly easy, even though GR86 has very limited availibility in the UK and it's dificult to find a new GR86 (Unlike Miata which has unlimited availability in the UK).
The Miata provides a different driving experience, specially the rag top. The BRZ/86 feel too similar to every other sedan. No wrong choice here however.
I hated the seats in the Miata. Too narrow on the back is the best way I can explain it. You feel like you’re in a little egg lol it’s snug in there. Cheaper than both of these cars I bought a used C6 corvette and it’s perfectly sized.
I love both of them. However one day I will stop motorcycle riding and will buy ether the Toyota or the Mazda. I'm more to the Toyota if the price is the same.
Almost bought the GR, but the interior is just too much blah here, blah there. Plus I always wanted a true roadster, so I decided on the MX-5 Grand Touring.
Wild card..... The BRZ is better on road than the GR86. The suspension is tuned more for comfort and handling rather than stiffness and tail swinging like the toyota. About 20k HARD miles on my BRZ. Lots of mods and track time. The RTV\oil fear is irrational and over played.
Good to hear from someone who tracks one! I definitely think the RTV fear is irrational but i get why the oil starvation from sloshing is scary. Even if it’s not a guarantee that you’ll cook the engine, it is a design flaw that I hope subie addresses!
@@RealistickIts a flat engine thing. This is nothing new. The same condition has then present in every Subaru engine ever. Porsche knows all about it also That's why they use a dry sump oil system.
@@boost331Agreed, the boxer is definitely more susceptible to it, but the new BRZ/86 is worse than the previous gen when it comes to oil starvation. People have put oil sensors in their engines to prove it when trying to find a fix. The new WRX actually doesn’t have the same oiling system and doesn’t struggle with it as much either from what I’ve read.
@@Realistick With my decades of subaru ownership, the info that I have gathered is that it is not an oil pumping issue, it is related to oil getting trapped in the heads and not returning to the pan fast enough. My theory as to why it seems more prevalent in the new BRZ is because it is the model that gets tracked the most. There aren't really that many WRX owners out on road courses. When there is, they dont pull the same kind of Gs that the BRZs do and the engines dont rev nearly as high. The biggest contributor to the problem is the recommended oil weight IMO. 0W20 simply isnt enough protection with such low oil pressure and high RPM. Toss in 5w30 or 0w40 and the issue basically disappears.
I've gone grocery shopping and doing day to day chores in it every weekend that it's not raining, and I went this morning in the rain anyway. Also for a small cooler, 2 folding chairs, and a travel bag for a two-day weekend trip for two in the trunk (backpack by the passengers' feet. The only time I had to switch recently was to deliver a corner shelf along with grocery shopping and returnables and dropping off some clothes at goodwill. And tbh I think if I rolled the windows down to protect it, and strapped it in with the seatbelt and another tie down, and managed to find a tad bit of self control, I could have used it then too. Although I think the soft top has ever so slightly larger of a trunk
I can fit 2 people, 2 golf bags, and enough luggage for a week long trip in my 2024 GR86. That is what I wanted in a sports car and I GOT IT. The Miata is fun, but otherwise useless.
Why would anyone pick an 86 over a Mustang? Mustang gives you 4 seats for practicality, very good handling, way more power, better looking, great 6 speed manual, AND A CONVERTIBLE OPTION. Iv'e hauled lumber in my Mustang. Whats the point of the 86? Either get a real sports car (Miata) or a real coupe (Mustang).
If you drove a GR86 and a Mustang, you would understand Immediately! The GR86 is extremely good through corners and has more space than the Miata. The mustang is numb and awkward on corners in comparison to the Toyota (unless you get a dark horse).
@@Realistick I went from a Mini S, to a Fiesta ST, to a Mustang EcoBoost convertible and now rock an ND. Not sure about the handling claims.. the base mustang fastback does the same Gs as the GR86. I found my mustang to be just as well connected as any of the other smaller performance cars, including the dang Fiesta which loved to get on 3 wheels around corners. Maybe because its tires are like twice the size? The mustang also had different steering modes, and the track mode made the steering really nice and stiff/feely. As for ND vs. 86, by the end of the tail of the dragon, the 86 (attempting to) follow me had smoking brakes and poor M3 had a roasted clutch. My ND didnt even break a sweat. In order for the 86 to even be relevant it needs to pick a lane. Is it light? is it fast? is it grippy? is it anything better than anything? the answer is no. Its good enough at several things, but master of nothing, not even price.
Eh, I would had bought GR86 or rather Subaru BRZ version, but its reliability is bad. Its boxer engine tends to fail and there is no guarantee if a cheap car you are going to get is not being sold off exactly, because it is going to catastrophically fail. Also, this sports cars run into same issue as Supra. Why would you want Supra when it is made by BMW? Same is for GR86? Why would you want Subaru made car? It is unreliable and finish quality is lacking.
I would happily own both, but if I had to pay for a GR86 and a MX5 I´d just buy an Alpine. Lighter than a MX5 and quite faster than a GR86. And much more fun to drive. A review please?
That GR86 has as bad of an engine note as are the dealer markups. I would never ever bother buying one solely because of markups. I can’t fit in the Mazda so first world problems are solved for me 😂
The one in this video sold for msrp, you should be able to travel around and find one if you’re in the US, some regions are just hopeless :( best of luck
You like rev hang, clunky drivetrain and more weight? I traded my ND2 for a GR86 just to get to experience both and while I still like the GR, there is no comparison especially in terms of fun. The Miata is way, way more fun to drive.
@@oemj7147 You like excessive body roll, a terrible exhaust note and the looks of a teenage girls car? The gr86 is faster, looks nicer and handles better. Easy choice. The Miata has a nicer interior and that’s the only benefit
@@ak740_ The body roll is a feature on the Miata, not a downside. It's all about making the car feel fun in regular everyday driving, not only on the track. Put a set of ohlins on it and would absolutely destroy any GR86 on the track. Sure, the GR86 has a little stiffer suspension from the factory which gives it a little advantage on the track stock vs stock but it's also a very sterile experience as a day to day driver. If feels a lot like a regular commuter car when not pushed at the limit. I think you might be joking about the exhaust note since the Miata definitely sounds better than the GR86. In fact I cannot get over of how bad the powertrain on the Gr86 is. At low RPM it sounds like a tractor with the clunky transmission and the pronounced ticking noise from the engine. I don't think I've ever seen a teenage girl in a Miata but I've seen plenty of them in the 86/BRZ twins. I know I've received a lot more compliments on the looks on my ND2 vs the GR86 I own now.
@@oemj7147the 86 is very soft actually. It sits low because of the boxer engine, not because of a stiff, low suspension. The rear end is also very playful without being punishing. You can feel it kick out just slightly when you take a turn at low speed, but it always remains under control. Anyone who says it feels like a commuter car just hasn’t really driven it. It always feels special driving it and I’d argue it’s the best driving Japanese coupe since the DC2 Integra type R.
I have driven both these cars. You cant go wrong with either, but here are a few similarities and differences from my perspective.
1. They are the two best drivers cars on the market. Period. They are the top two cars for backroads.
2. They are among the top 10 drivers cars (backroads, not track monsters) ever made.
3. The 86 is heavier but you get a lot more practicality and it can be a one car solution for a single person or couple.
4. The 86 is much more track ready off the shelf esp with the Performance Pack. The MX5 will need coilovers so add another $1500 plus (and install) on a car thats already more expensive
5. The 86 has more torque and easier to slide around
6. The MX5 has much better driver inputs - steering feel, shifter, clutch, brakes, throttle responsiveness and mapping
7. The MX5 is likely more reliable long term
8. The fuel consumption of MX5 is much better
9. The MX5 does feel a fair bit more agile, BUT, the 86 is second only to that car
10. The MX5 feels like its made with higher quality parts and interior (more premium)
Goddamn, WELL said!
This is the comment that could supersede every comparison on RUclips.
The BR86Z is really just the 2nd to none, except for the Miata, car. And in exchange for that small additional bit it weight, which costs you agility and dynamics, the twins are far more usable as a single solution. That is the cars secret weapon.
Miata is ALWAYS the answer, unless you simply don’t have an option and don’t have access to a 2nd vehicle.
I agree with everything HOWEVER, from what I’ve found, the MX-5 goes for less money than the GR and I don’t think a suspension upgrade is necessary unless you’re going to track the car (then 100%)!
@sshah2545 haha. Appreciate it. I'm a car nut and driver feel fetishist lol.
@Realistick agreed. However, spec for spec MX5 is pricey, esp with the ND3 price bump. GR86 PP is about 34k, MX5 Club with Brembo package about 38K. I call it the convertible premium but the MX5 does feel more premium. Eitherway I voted with my wallet and a club ND3 with BBR is on order for me and should be arriving in July. Its going to better than the 2006 S2000 CR that I almost bought new haha. Esp once I put some MCS coilovers and race exhaust.
🤣🤣
Me and my lil bro are both into JDM's since childhood. He always liked the Miata and now has an MX-5 and I like the AE86 and got myself the GR86. I'm 41 and he's 36, we both have no families so we had the option get them as our daily drivers. WE love your cars.
41 and no family is crazy
@liftsu9943 How? Not everyone wants kids. I see no reason to make that the end goal of my life, I'd rather live life to achieve my own goals.
Have some huuuuuuite babies.
@@liftsu9943Being such a bitch is more crazier
I own a miata, and it also has more of a wow factor. Since i bought it in December, I've had multiple people calling out compliments just while driving down the road. You feel like you're in an exotic car even tho i got a fully loaded 2021 with 25000 miles for $25k
I had a similar experience too! Of the cars I have tested, only the Lexus LC500 convertible got more compliments than the MX-5.
Take your Miata fanboy’ism out of it, and then explain to me how a Miata has more “WOW” factor over a GR86/BRZ lol.
@@JacesOwnWorldthis is very easy, just drop the top. Can’t say that from a gr86 or brz
@@JacesOwnWorld for most people who's not super into cars, the miata would probably have more wow factor
Do you have a soft yop or an RF?
Just bought a Trueno edition GR86, spectacular fun factor so far, my cousin got an mx5 at the same time. Fair eval of the pros and cons, there is no wrong answer with either car imo
I have a 2.0 gr Supra and I get hyped seeing any gr car the trueno edition is dope af imo I didn’t really like the 1st gen but the second gen is awesome imo
I'm sorry you wasted money on a 2.0 Supra. Could have saved over $10k and gotten a base GR86 w/ "performance package" that has Brembo brakes, SACHS dampers, and 18in wheels.
@@tyrantrex734 naw not a waste it’s my daily I don’t need all that I don’t go to the track also everyone else loves the car too if i was worried about saving 10k I would have went with something more practical like the new Prius and if I didn’t care how much I spent I would have went with the 3.0
I wish the Trueno didn't have such a derpy paint design
I owned a 2018 BRZ and a 2020 MX-5. I've also driven the new generation GR86. But when it came time for me to buy a new weekend fun car this year I ended up going back to a 2024 MX-5. Ordered a Club soft top with the BBR package at the end of January and picked it up about a month ago. Both are great choices, and I don't think you could go wrong with either. For me it came down to the fact that I didn't need the extra practicality of the GR86, as this is just a weekend toy for me, and I was looking for fun more than anything. The MX-5 is enjoyable at any speeds, whether just cruising around or attacking a backroad, and the open top nature of the car just adds to the experience.
Personally I like the looks of the Mazda a little more. I own a BRZ and love it. 2 origami kayaks and gear fit in there and my daughter and I have a blast. My wife and daughter, both on the small side, can be passengers. A fourth would be impossible. There is also plenty of aftermarket stuff available for the GR86/BRZ. Both are great.
Best car channel when it comes to describing the minute subjective and objective details of the characteristics and feel of these cool cars. And thank u for not saying every aspect of these popular cars are perfect or amazing. After watching your reviews, I feel like I just got done test driving and now I’m ready to make a purchase hahaha
Thank you, that’s my first goal with each review/comparison!
Being able to put the top down on a beautiful day or warm night more than makes up for any shortcomings in this comparison. It simply flips a switch in your brain, performance stops even mattering, and might as well be like having two different cars in one.
Yep. Ain’t nothing like going home at the end of a clear evening, dropping the top, cranking the music up and driving home in a Miata. 😎👍🏽
I went with a 2024 BRZ Limited over these options for a few reasons. #1) I prefer the interior space of the GR86/BRZ. #2). The motor is nearly 100% Subaru (so I would rather have a Subaru mechanic work on the engine (if need be). #3). The BRZ can be ordered as you want for sticker price; while the Toyota marks up above sticker price and won’t let you spec out your order.
The RF is incredibly handsome, gets ridiculously good fuel economy even when driven in town and revved out, economy is unreal on smooth highway driving, and every trip is fun.
Plus the small fuel tank is cheap to fill up.
I’ve been daily driving a 2018 Miata GT for 4 years, and I still love it. Manual transmission is a must. I’m surprised how many people don’t know what it is. I live in the land of exotic cars (South Florida), yet the Miata feels like it’s not class dependent. I’ve even seen the valet park it right next to the Ferraris and Rolls Royces at the local mall (yes, they shop there too).
Great comparison! Opinions on styling is subjective, the GR looks sporty and the MX-5 looks that way also, but adds a uniqueness that makes it standout.
Being a GR86 owner with extensive experience behind the wheel of my friend's ND2 Miata RF, I will fully admit that the Miata is more fun. However, I needed the practicality of the GR86 as it's my only car and the GR86 came in that gorgeous Neptune Blue while the Miata is stuck with boring colors. If I had something like a CX-30 as a daily driver, I definitely would've gone with the Miata though. My main complaint about the Miata was that the speedometer is pretty much unreadable because everything is so scrunched together, you're never gonna go 160 mph in a Miata. The Miata has a digital screen in the instrument cluster but for some reason Mazda never put a digital speedometer there.
Mazda’s Soul Red may be the best automotive red ever. MHO
@@bobreno4042 Yeah but I'm more of a bright blue person. I can appreciate soul red but red just isn't my thing and it's also the color that triggers cops the most lol
Interesting take on the colors. I feel Toyota should have made more colors available for gr86. Even the Camry comes with nicer color options
The eternal blue is very nice colour, esp with cream interior 👌
I've got a similar complaint about the 86/BRZ (I've got a 2012 BRZ) - analogue speedo going to 260 Km/h is...optimistic (even with a HKS supercharger kit fitted) and hard to read. Fortunately it has a digital speed readout in the rev counter so I only need to look at that.
Compared to the MX-5 the Toyobaru twins not only return far inferior fuel mileage, they're also saddled by Subaru and Toyota with a recommendation for 93-octane Premium, whereas Mazda only recommends 91 for the MX-5. For a lot of people that's not a problem, but California and many other states don't offer 93-octane fuel. According to Subaru and Toyota, yes, the motor will run safely on lower octanes, but at the cost of reduced power, lower fuel mileage, and occasional knocking and pinging.
That's largely why I ended up getting another MX-5 instead of the GR86 I was allocated, and it's also why I ended up getting the 91-octane Type R over the 93-octane Type S. There were other reasons as well, obviously, but in the case of the GR86 that was the primary one, since I'm in California.
Otherwise, yep, except for the crappy fuel mileage the GR86 is the slightly faster, flatter cornering car that makes for a better daily driver, while the Miata-assuming one can fit in it-is the better built, more engaging and fun niche vehicle with a much nicer interior. Betwen the two, the Miata feels far more "special." There is quite a bit more sense of occasion with the MX-5, and that feeling never wears off. Plus, it's a true convertible, which renders moot any comparisons between the MX-5 and anything with a fixed roof. The open-air aspect of the extremely lightweight and tossable MX-5 absolutely changes the equation, making for an entirely more satisfying and immersive experience. Get a Miata out on a perfect coastal road, or ripping around up in the forest, or cruising through a starlit desert at night...there is simply no comparison. You savor the difference, and fully appreciate where your hard-earned money went.
If you want a convertible, the MX5 is clearly the one to go for. However I now own a BRZ, I used to have an MX5 convertible - would not buy one again as got the top knifed twice by people trying to steal it. I would consider the MX5 RF as it solves that problem to a large extent, but no good for me as I cannot fit in it (whereas I can get into the BRZ ok).
Re driving, the BRZ feels like a go kart, which is awesome, pretty harsh ride quality (2012 BRZ with HKS suspension note), but lots of fun factor.
That’s not a problem most places in Europe, where 95 octane is the lowest you can get. I have never seen 93 let alone 91 octane fuel on sale!
@@NigelCharman 95 in Europe is equivalent to 91 on the US level. FYI.
Good, fair review and I do like you said which one "makes me more happy"--that subjective thing matters.
The 86 back seats aren’t as useless as everyone makes them out to be. I’ve taken adults on ~20 minute trips across town just need to scoot your seat up a bit. You’re not going on a road trip and you’re not getting someone that’s 6’5” back there but for most normal sized people it works in a pinch
I couldn’t think of putting anyone behind me, if I was like 6 inches shorter, maybe… in a pinch if i pushed myself to the dashboard! It’s more convenient than not having them. But I get why folks would call them useless.
Agreed, not too bad for children but in particular great space for dogs!
Back seat are 100% useless for anyone more than 10 yo
86 is the superior car for Uber purposes
The rule for the back seat with cars like this is 3 people max, and the person in the back seat sits sideways.
Both cars look fun to drive.
Holy crap, that was a great comparison review. In terms of sheer thoroughness that manages to touch on nearly everything a potential buyer would want to know, I think I can now say with confidence that you're the best reviewer out there, bar none. Some people cover the hard data, specs, and flashy tech very comprehensively. Others tend to eschew all that, figuring their viewers can read a brochure on their own, and they focus primarily on the intangibles, the overall impressions, how a car feels. You combine those two approaches better than anyone. savagegeese come close, but even they aren't as thorough overall as you are, and they're definitely not as consistently thorough. Sometimes they tend to mail it in, relatively speaking. You never fail to give full effort in every review.
It's like Michael Jordan once explained late in his career, when asked why he still gives such maniacal effort every time he steps on the court...
"Every night, I know there will be someone in that arena who is seeing me play for the first time. I won't give them anythng less than my best."
Thank you, I’m glad the effort doesn’t go unnoticed!
Test drove both a month ago. The GR86 had me grinning. The Miata not as much. Was offered the GR86 below dealer invoice. The Miata was several thousands of dollar more than the Toyota .
Got the GR86. Was a no brainer.
That’s a strange experience. Great job getting such a deal on your new car! Toyota dealerships have a bad reputation for up pricing. They must have been short on a quota.
Great review! In 2024, the miata is 530 to 465lbs lighter.
2024 GR86 is 2,811 to 2,868lbs
2024 MX-5 is 2,341 to 2,403lbs
In Japan, the lightest miata is the 990S Special Edition: 2,182lbs (1.5L engine).
Bought my miata in 2020 when they only had the 1st gen 86. The 2nd gen would have been tempting with the improved linear engine. I'm still happy with my miata's weight, fun, and mpgs (35mpg work commute).
Really great comparo! Enjoy the detail you provide to really get at the subtle differences
I appreciate that, thanks for watching!
I own a 16 year old Mazda Miata with 190k miles on the odometer with no issues. Both cars are excellent, we should all be grateful that these are available in this day of crossovers and automatics, won’t mention electrification. Enjoy the road!
Great two options for most fun per $. For CA weather the Miata is a clear winner, as most of the year it’s not too hot or too cold or too humid for open-air. If you live in less ideal weather, I’d pick the 86 if I forced to own only one car.
I own both. If fun was the only consideration and I could only have one, it would be the miata.
I've driven both of these cars many times and here's what I think... As an only car, the the 86 wins simply because it's more practical. However, as a 2nd car, which is the case for me, the Miata wins hands down because you get similar performance and feedback as the 86, but you also get a more sophisticated design, better overall build quality, and the open top experience, which takes it to another level. I strongly prefer the Miata overall, which is why I just purchased a ND3 Miata GT MT soft top. I've had it for 3 days and I've already done 300 miles. I look for any excuse I can dream up to go for a drive. This car is pure bliss on 4 wheels. I'm not a kid anymore so I really like its grown up styling and excellent long term reliability. Looking forward to owning this car for decades to come. That said, if I could only own one vehicle, I would have purchased a BRZ, not a GR86, because I prefer its more understated design and I hate how greedy Toyota has become and their dealership experience is rage inducing.
I second that. I've been shopping around, and the Toyota dealership wanted me to BUY a GR 86 without test driving it. Subaru just scheduled a test drive, no brainer. I'm pretty sold on a club soft top Miata though. Never thought I'd be into a convertible.
I have ordered a black club with the BBS Brembo package. I am a month into my four month wait… I have wanted one since 2016. I sprung for it this year because they may go hybrid next year and I want nothing to do with batteries as of yet. I currently have a 93 twin Turbo RX seven. I’ve had five Mazda in between including two Mazda speed prodigy CX 30 CX three and now MX five I’ve had great service with Mazda.. I will get mine delivered around my birthday and it’s probably be one of the best presents. I’ve gotten myself in years.
@@Eelgnotsa The 5th gen Miata will be a mild hybrid. It's already been confirmed by Mazda. I think it'll still be an amazing car, with a lot more power than the current model, but that's just not what I want personally. The Miata has never been about power. It's just about pure driving engagement, which doesn't require a ton of power. I love having a car that I can almost fully utilize on public roads without being reckless.
This just in: miata owner prefers miata 😂
@@Wind_slash0 Stupid comment
In Canada, the MX5 costs about 15% more than the BRZ (the Subaru badged GR86). I needed a daily and it was a no brainer to get the BRZ over the Miata in a climate that has snow. I would love to own an MX5, but I can’t afford a car that I can’t drive in the winter.
I think this video covered it really well, and I can see why people would like the GR-86 now. For me, it always felt very fake, but the reason for that is that I'm looking for constant engagement and fun, no matter the situation. But that's what I'M looking for, and other people aren't. Most people just want to get to work as easily and low effort as possible, and have fun when they want to have fun, not be forced to. A GR-86 looks like it can do that flawlessly. That's just not what I'm looking for, and it's that ability for it to just be a normal car that made it feel half baked to me.
I do want to add something to the ND mx-5 experience, which for me is a downside: a lot of non-car people assume it's an exotic sports car. I'm not looking for attention, so it's been annoying on occasion. The gr-86 or brz, it's just a car to most people, and that's kind of a plus in my opinion. Only car people will really notice it.
I agree that if you’re buying a TOY… go with the MX-5.
I test drove both but ultimately just purchased the GR86 (today in fact, delivery Monday) because it is more practical daily driver with the balls to pull out the sport moves when needed…
But within the next two years I’ll be getting an MX-5 as an exclusive TOY… because I love both of these cars so much… I HAVE to own them both eventually.
😅
saying TOY in all caps doesnt make it a toy. its still a twisty road eating monster.
To me they both drive similarly enough, priced similarly enough, both beautiful for the price, but the miata has the party trick of a fold down roof and also better mpg’s so it’s the winner IMO unless you hate the idea of ever putting the roof down anyway and just want a track toy, or need microscopic back seats.
I wanted a GR86 for a while, being that it was the more practical option of the two; but like ya said on pricing - it was so stupid to pay what dealerships were asking for at the peak of the pandemic. I wound up going to Mazda when I realized that the dealers had a tendency to discount the MX-5’s. I wound up going home with a used 20’ RF GT for a decent price. Got one of the “affordable dream cars” for a decent price, and it’s been an absolute delight using this as my daily car for the last 2 years. In that time, I had needed a larger vehicle 3 times, none of which was a problem since everyone in my circle of friends and family has a larger vehicle by comparison, and an offer for some lunch or a fuel refill couldn’t solve for me. :) Maybe when life gets busier for me, I’ll move to a GR86 or BRZ.
Here in the Northeast both cars are seasonal therefore as a weekend driver twenty weeks/year Miata gets my vote.
Glad you mentioned the Dual vs Direct injection thing, hadn't thought about that with the Miata.
Mazda designed the skyactiv engine to have quite hot intake valve temps for this reason. Drive it hard every once in a while, it doesn't get too bad
As a single guy with only one car, my GR86 works perfect for me. I would have been stuck several times if I had a Miata for a daily. Having a back seat is very important if only just for cargo. The driving is of course fantastic. The changes I made were to turn off the fake engine noise and put in a 10" sub in the trunk. The poor MPG is the only thing I don't like about the car.
I drove a Pontiac GXP Solstice for years as my only driver. Loved that car, very hard when I had to sell it.
I get 28mpg in my brz
This is very wrong to purchased a GR86, the RTV issue cost me $900 every oil change
I have a 2005 mini cooper s convertible. I wanted to get the mx-5 soft top. However i was greatly surprised how much more significant road and wind noise there is in the mx-5. I think because even with my 18 year old roadster, the convertible top in my mini is multi-layer or have some sort of insulation material. As for road noise, I couldn’t pin point where the amount of noise is coming from. I even swapped the wheels and tires (same 4x100 bolt pattern) and did not matter. Makes me think if my mini has more insulation. I think i will go to the gr86 instead
aftermarket has soft top liner that greatly reduces road noise. But i dont care, as my top is down every time i drive. if its raining, i just drive the jeep. :-)
Excellent comparison video!
I daily drove an ND1 Miata (soft top) for over four years. It's hands-down my favorite of the dozen or so cars I've owned. (All were daily drivers.) I've been looking at new GR86s in recent weeks, and though it's a great car, I'll probably buy another Miata instead. The MX-5 just feels special, plus I don't think it's as punishing to daily drive on bad roads, which we have plenty of where I live. But a big part of it is fuel economy. I'm on track to drive over 20,000 miles this year, and the difference between 25 vs. 35 mpg is huge, especially when you're buying premium gas.
I'm fortunate that my wife drives an SUV, so I can still have my fun car and we have a larger vehicle to move bigger things in and for trips. :-)
Purchased an MX5 as a second car 6 months ago and couldn’t be happier. I looked at the GR86 and couldn’t understand why a lightweight car like that only gets 20 MPG city with most people getting 18-20 in the city. (So I’m talking about City MPG’s). I usually get 30-34 mpg in the Miata. I know gas mileage isn’t the primary reason for buying these cars, but still….The other thing that bothered me was the stick shift was so unnecessarily high which I found cumbersome and odd. Do you have any input as to why, for both of these traits? 💁♂️
I think the gear lever being high is to make it closer to the steering wheel (which is a bit high in the GR86), I don’t really know how Subaru made the 2.4l so inefficient though. Flat 4s aren’t known for sipping fuel but they’re usually frugal in Subarus. Congrats on the MX-5!
You must have to redline it in every gear to get 17 . I drive 20 miles to work every day. 5 is surface streets 15 is interstate. I average 30
The mpg figures given by Toyota must be estimates or something. From what I read it seems like most people average around 28-32.
My lifetime average on my manual Miata is currently 33.2, and that's me actively trying to rev it out and even taking it in-town for chores. My friends see that and don't believe I'm driving... enthusiastically.... enough. Getting 38-42 on the highway is just all too common
Because 86 is more faster and more powerful
Very nice to hear a shoutout to Indiana. Are you from there ?
Got an Mx-5. The only downsides are: it’s small, with limited space, (no glove box for instance), and the entertainment system is too slow - the sound is good from the audio system, but it can take minutes to recognise music on a USB stick.
To anyone watching this:
I had a 2019 Miata.
I sold it for a 2023 GR Corolla.
I have been kicking myself every day for the past almost-2 years.
Get a Miata. Drive it. Love it.
I like the Mazda MX-5 (RF version) over the GR86/BRZ, & it is the more mature/elegant of the two. Most of the color choices for the MX-5 though are pretty sad & drab IMO. Unbelievable that we can't buy a new one in Polymetal Gray Metallic (blue-gray color), as that is one of Mazda's best colors.
My Mazda3 is that. And while I like it, I'd rather they do a green, or a brighter blue. Yellow would be wild, or even a brighter take on Acura's Phantom Violet Pearl would im sure be excellent
I own a Miata RF 6-speed manual. It’s fabulous! In my opinion it’s the best sports car for the money.
MX5” RF” is stunning , very beautiful, simple but aggressive .
I just got a 2024 86 with performance pack and I am in MD where there are no MSRP dealers. I still got MSRP minus the dealer processing but for how hard it is to find a performance pack, I'll take it. Still breaking the engine in but the car is planted on corners and its a bit more preppy than my f10 535i at low speeds.
and one has a lockable trunk, not a small thing, sometimes. With the trunk, your expensive--whatever, is not visible so it does not invite break-in as much. Second, if it is a firearm, that discretion also means you DO comply with laws in some areas, with no truck, you are in trouble from get go.
I rarely use my radio anymore since I have a cell phone and air pods.i would get rid of the radio and traction control. put more paint and some type of anti chipping layer on the car. the paint on the front of my 2019 Miata is badly pitted after five years and 90,000 of driving, but I did buy the Miata for driving as much as possible.
"the mx-5 reads your mind like targeted ads" i enjoyed that.
MX5 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I'm 6'3 and could barely fit in a new Miata. The 86 is far more comfortable for me, plus the back seat and trunk have been extremely useful for using it as a daily driver.
I get 29 mpg combined in my manual brz (according to the gauge). The epa tests have always underrated the manuals i've had
A soft top variant of GR86 / roadster might’ve prevented me from buying my Miata. But wanted something different than the current wrx and the smiles per gallon could not be so different!
wouldn't a MX-5 RF be a better comparison? Top down option is a great option to have and probably used more than the backseat of the GR - as you say in your review, cheers!
I own a GR86 and love it. But even though I haven't ever driven a Miata I can see the appeal with it.
dont drive one.
I think if mazda made the car a little bigger, switched to a 2.5, got rid of the convertible and made the interior more "liveable" it would be the perfect car
That would eliminate the entire personality of Miata. You have other car for that.
I would have considered the 86 had it been a convertible.
MX5 quality control and superior Pay attention to detail is key 🔑
The problem with the mx5 is that its roof is known to leak over time under rain.
I was interested until I found about about that problem.
For a day to day car and not only a sunny sunday pleasure car, in countries like Scotland, this makes it a no-go in my own opinion.
It shouldn't leak if the drains aren't clogged! After a decade or so, if you get a lot of sun, the weather stripping might give out and cause a leak but that's something you can replace.
@@Realistick well I read a lot of stories about that on Miata groups of discussions.
Because it is a convertible car when it gets old gets a lot of play.
Even people with RF versions have problems with that.
Even the inventor of the Miata speaks about this on the Real Mechanic Stuff channel (Reacts videos)
Hardtop sports cars can be found in all price ranges. Wouldn't consider a low-powered hardtop like the GR86 with the Supra being a better sport car for additional money. The only convertible for the price and fun is hands down the MX-5! Miata is always the answer 🙂.
Not below $40k! The Supra is out of most folks’ price range. But agreed on the MX-5!
I really wish the GR86 had a convertible variant
Did you say sim-U-larities?
I wish dealers on the east coasts weren't so greedy. The lowest I found was $2,500 over MSRP for base with $2,000 of dealer addons. heartbreaking for a young car enthusiast
If you're talking about the Miata many Northeast dealers will sell at MSRP. 86 I saw 3-5k markups but that was back in 2022 and I would have thought they would have calmed down.
@@markcoopers1930 I’m talking about the GR86, I’m in the market for one but can’t find a dealer willing to sell a base for MSRP. I’m not a fan of the Subaru front end and the Miata is way too small for a daily. I’m going from a truck to a 2dr so the GR86 space is a must.
@@giggiity Consider buying from a dealer that has the price you like, and make the road trip back home.
3:30 MX5 much smaller cabin
13:00 Issues
17:00 MX5 FTW?
Gr86/brz looks more elegant and sportier than mx5 plus more power
0:30 the… „simularities“?! 😂😂😂
It feels like GR86 is more like for racing, if I want just a car some chill fun rides, will the Miata be better?
Pretty much!
cool video :)
I hope we get a future update on which of these cars you choose to purchase if you do so. Great content!
Thank you! I’ll have a whole series on this topic🤠
You smiled more in the MX5!
These two are the very best sports cars on sale full stop.
Both, the GR 86 and MX-5 are incredibly fun and which one do you prefer? It depends on your taste :) But either option you have one of the best cars ever made.
To me, the sports car market that actually excite me so much as to say I love them resumes to these two, 911 GT3 and 911 S/T, that's it.
Edit: Oh, and my choice between these two is the GR 86, but I love them both! Your video came just in time since just Yesterday I was thinking about how awesome these two are :)
You described them very well while going straight to the point: Interior, Driving Experience, Reliability. I loved that!
Only thing you get with the Toyobaru over MX5 is more storage. If storage is that important to you then you probably should not be looking at sportscars
As a GR86 owner for me this was finally a car similar to the MX5 but without it being a convertible, which I don't like. It might come as a shock to some people, but not the whole world likes convertibles. 😂 So the GR86 is perfect for me.
The RF is more coupe like (or feels like it when it’s up). I guess it’s not “technically” a coupe.
I agree, I’m not a convertible guy either. Had an old MGB for a while and while the car was nice (but slow. Super. Super. slow) the seat’s being 4,000 F every time and I stepped out of it and got back in on a sunny day is not worth the 2 days of the year it’s the perfect temp to put the top down and cruise.
i agree on the design big time
The Mazda mx-5 all day long! Looks so much better than the GR86.
Lmao it looks like a toy. The GR86 looks way better.
It's clear that you can't go wrong with any of those 2 gems, but the main problem of the MX-5 is that not everybody fit inside... Just watch the driver with top off in the las part of the video, where is his head and where are his legs!
True, doesn’t work for everyone, though I am 6’3 and so long as you are also not too stocky, it can work for more people than you might think!
Biggest difference for me is I fit in the 86 pretty comfortably. And I’m 6’7 and 3 hunnid pounds.
Miata best car ever made
I got GR86 , it was a very difficult decision for me between GR86 and Miata, I chose GR 86 for a few reasons.
1- Its engine is more powerful than Miatas, Miata is like a fast city car not sports car IMO, whereas GR86 is a proper entry level sports car.
2- GR86 has stronger character, it looks unique, its dashboard is unique, even some of its advantages and disadvantages are unique,whereas Miata looks like a standard Japanese car, when you look at it you feel like it's just another cool Japanese car whereas GR86 is GR86.
3- GR86 looks sharper and resembles other more expensive Sports cars(Lotus,Alpine,Aston Martin...etc) whereas Mazda looks more like a fun/cool city car.
4- Last but not least I love Toyota, my last two cars were Toyota Aygo and Toyota Aygo X, I have good relationship with Toyota dealers and Toyota finance so finding a brand new GR86 and getting the part Exchange with my Aygo X and new finance deal sorted was fairly easy, even though GR86 has very limited availibility in the UK and it's dificult to find a new GR86 (Unlike Miata which has unlimited availability in the UK).
i prefer the look of the mazda
The Miata provides a different driving experience, specially the rag top. The BRZ/86 feel too similar to every other sedan. No wrong choice here however.
I hated the seats in the Miata. Too narrow on the back is the best way I can explain it. You feel like you’re in a little egg lol it’s snug in there. Cheaper than both of these cars I bought a used C6 corvette and it’s perfectly sized.
👀 they are spacious for a roadster.
I love both of them. However one day I will stop motorcycle riding and will buy ether the Toyota or the Mazda.
I'm more to the Toyota if the price is the same.
Almost bought the GR, but the interior is just too much blah here, blah there. Plus I always wanted a true roadster, so I decided on the MX-5 Grand Touring.
Miata is a fun car to drive in the Philippines.
Wild card.....
The BRZ is better on road than the GR86. The suspension is tuned more for comfort and handling rather than stiffness and tail swinging like the toyota. About 20k HARD miles on my BRZ. Lots of mods and track time. The RTV\oil fear is irrational and over played.
Good to hear from someone who tracks one! I definitely think the RTV fear is irrational but i get why the oil starvation from sloshing is scary. Even if it’s not a guarantee that you’ll cook the engine, it is a design flaw that I hope subie addresses!
@@RealistickIts a flat engine thing. This is nothing new. The same condition has then present in every Subaru engine ever. Porsche knows all about it also That's why they use a dry sump oil system.
@@boost331Agreed, the boxer is definitely more susceptible to it, but the new BRZ/86 is worse than the previous gen when it comes to oil starvation. People have put oil sensors in their engines to prove it when trying to find a fix. The new WRX actually doesn’t have the same oiling system and doesn’t struggle with it as much either from what I’ve read.
@@Realistick With my decades of subaru ownership, the info that I have gathered is that it is not an oil pumping issue, it is related to oil getting trapped in the heads and not returning to the pan fast enough. My theory as to why it seems more prevalent in the new BRZ is because it is the model that gets tracked the most. There aren't really that many WRX owners out on road courses. When there is, they dont pull the same kind of Gs that the BRZs do and the engines dont rev nearly as high. The biggest contributor to the problem is the recommended oil weight IMO. 0W20 simply isnt enough protection with such low oil pressure and high RPM. Toss in 5w30 or 0w40 and the issue basically disappears.
I got a nd3 miata rf, love the car. Zero practicality
I've gone grocery shopping and doing day to day chores in it every weekend that it's not raining, and I went this morning in the rain anyway. Also for a small cooler, 2 folding chairs, and a travel bag for a two-day weekend trip for two in the trunk (backpack by the passengers' feet. The only time I had to switch recently was to deliver a corner shelf along with grocery shopping and returnables and dropping off some clothes at goodwill.
And tbh I think if I rolled the windows down to protect it, and strapped it in with the seatbelt and another tie down, and managed to find a tad bit of self control, I could have used it then too. Although I think the soft top has ever so slightly larger of a trunk
I saw more of the GR86 about 3/4s of the whole video…
If 86 came in a convertible it would win in every category. As of now it wins as a drivers sports car
Yep 86 is the best all rounder ❤ performance is better too for every day use and weekend buzz 😎
I can fit 2 people, 2 golf bags, and enough luggage for a week long trip in my 2024 GR86. That is what I wanted in a sports car and I GOT IT. The Miata is fun, but otherwise useless.
Why would anyone pick an 86 over a Mustang? Mustang gives you 4 seats for practicality, very good handling, way more power, better looking, great 6 speed manual, AND A CONVERTIBLE OPTION. Iv'e hauled lumber in my Mustang. Whats the point of the 86? Either get a real sports car (Miata) or a real coupe (Mustang).
If you drove a GR86 and a Mustang, you would understand Immediately! The GR86 is extremely good through corners and has more space than the Miata. The mustang is numb and awkward on corners in comparison to the Toyota (unless you get a dark horse).
@@Realistick I went from a Mini S, to a Fiesta ST, to a Mustang EcoBoost convertible and now rock an ND. Not sure about the handling claims.. the base mustang fastback does the same Gs as the GR86. I found my mustang to be just as well connected as any of the other smaller performance cars, including the dang Fiesta which loved to get on 3 wheels around corners. Maybe because its tires are like twice the size? The mustang also had different steering modes, and the track mode made the steering really nice and stiff/feely. As for ND vs. 86, by the end of the tail of the dragon, the 86 (attempting to) follow me had smoking brakes and poor M3 had a roasted clutch. My ND didnt even break a sweat. In order for the 86 to even be relevant it needs to pick a lane. Is it light? is it fast? is it grippy? is it anything better than anything? the answer is no. Its good enough at several things, but master of nothing, not even price.
Eh, I would had bought GR86 or rather Subaru BRZ version, but its reliability is bad. Its boxer engine tends to fail and there is no guarantee if a cheap car you are going to get is not being sold off exactly, because it is going to catastrophically fail. Also, this sports cars run into same issue as Supra. Why would you want Supra when it is made by BMW? Same is for GR86? Why would you want Subaru made car? It is unreliable and finish quality is lacking.
Mazda the best!
Go with the roadster! Convertibles are the best! Also go with the real proven engine. Miata all day!
I would happily own both, but if I had to pay for a GR86 and a MX5 I´d just buy an Alpine. Lighter than a MX5 and quite faster than a GR86. And much more fun to drive. A review please?
Can't get an Alpine in North America
@@vipermoon_ Ah, ok didn´t know. I´d take the MX5 then 😅
Manual drive * anti-car theft/ Car jacking from GEN Z s ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
if only the new 86s werent blowing up at 20-30k miles :(
That GR86 has as bad of an engine note as are the dealer markups. I would never ever bother buying one solely because of markups.
I can’t fit in the Mazda so first world problems are solved for me 😂
The one in this video sold for msrp, you should be able to travel around and find one if you’re in the US, some regions are just hopeless :( best of luck
It’s always the Miata!! The best roadster ever.
I own both. If fun were the only consideration and I could only have one, it would be the gr86
You like rev hang, clunky drivetrain and more weight? I traded my ND2 for a GR86 just to get to experience both and while I still like the GR, there is no comparison especially in terms of fun. The Miata is way, way more fun to drive.
@@oemj7147the Miata looks stupid.
@@oemj7147 You like excessive body roll, a terrible exhaust note and the looks of a teenage girls car? The gr86 is faster, looks nicer and handles better. Easy choice. The Miata has a nicer interior and that’s the only benefit
@@ak740_ The body roll is a feature on the Miata, not a downside. It's all about making the car feel fun in regular everyday driving, not only on the track. Put a set of ohlins on it and would absolutely destroy any GR86 on the track.
Sure, the GR86 has a little stiffer suspension from the factory which gives it a little advantage on the track stock vs stock but it's also a very sterile experience as a day to day driver. If feels a lot like a regular commuter car when not pushed at the limit.
I think you might be joking about the exhaust note since the Miata definitely sounds better than the GR86. In fact I cannot get over of how bad the powertrain on the Gr86 is. At low RPM it sounds like a tractor with the clunky transmission and the pronounced ticking noise from the engine.
I don't think I've ever seen a teenage girl in a Miata but I've seen plenty of them in the 86/BRZ twins. I know I've received a lot more compliments on the looks on my ND2 vs the GR86 I own now.
@@oemj7147the 86 is very soft actually. It sits low because of the boxer engine, not because of a stiff, low suspension. The rear end is also very playful without being punishing. You can feel it kick out just slightly when you take a turn at low speed, but it always remains under control.
Anyone who says it feels like a commuter car just hasn’t really driven it. It always feels special driving it and I’d argue it’s the best driving Japanese coupe since the DC2 Integra type R.
Of course MAZDA❤
MX5 all day.