I’ve had both, plus a Porsche Cayman, a Z4 and recently a supercharged F-type. I sold the jag as money was tight and bought an MX5, 37k miles, one owner, 2007 mk3. Most fun car ever! No one gets it but as this chap on the video says, you fall back in love with driving! Plus it only cost me £4K!!!!! Fab car!!
Did you get the 1.8 version or the 2.0 litre I’m struggling to find a 2.0l version but could get my hands on a 1.8 litre in good condition low miles 10 plate. Would you say the 30 hp makes a difference or is it just the raw feel of the car?
I think the MX-5 has a purity aspect over the Audi TT. It is designed to be a roadster from the ground up. No turbo, no power rear screen. Just simplicity.
Absolutely ; no unnecessary frills, front engine, rear drive , and the best fun you can have round corners . I'm on my 4th one , two Mk 3s and 2 Mk4s , I've owned them since 2008 . At 85 , I'm getting on a bit , but top down all year round is a must , and unless it's chucking it down with rain , you dont even feel it. At my age, my last car , and I couldn't do better !
I live in China, the price of NC has been rising in recent years, you can't believe it, it has been twice as expensive as TT, I am very happy to drive NC, but China is a big country, and it needs to be driven for a long time, so I choose to drive TT every day, but it must be mx5 on weekends!Great video ！Good luck to you
Love it, generous mix of humour and quality consumer advice. Awesome that you acknowledge not everyone out there is a driving enthusiast. Keep em coming Jimboy!
I have a mk2 version of both cars. Love them both. Mx5 is much more agile, cheap to maintain and will probably go up in value so long as the rust is kept at bay, just have to be careful in the wet with the back end. TT is so much quicker, refined and much better on longer journeys especially motorways. The first day of owning the TT I never stopped smiling due to the performance. I remember people saying it’s so much fun to rev out the mx5 thro the gears something I didn’t really get until owning the TT, in the Audi you can only rev it out in 1st and 2nd otherwise you’ll be over the speed limit if you did it in 3rd. Owned the mx5 for 2 years and only the cam sensor needed replacing (£15 fitted in a couple of minutes), only owned the TT for a month so early days yet, but just make sure it’s got a good service history. Mx5 service history not so important, more important is the body condition (sills and arches). TT definitely a great gt car for daily use, mx5 weekend fun or short journey daily.
@@tag2222 Good timing with your comment. PCV valve needed replacing, made a noise like a pulley wheel nearing the end of its life. Supposedly a common fault
20,000 miles in just over a year. Some kind of pump went on the Quattro system so also had an oil change and filter cleaned, cost £750. Revo Stage 1 excellent 0-60 in just over 5secs, do not buy cheap remaps or ones that haven’t been tried and tested. MX5 needed some welding on the sills, cost around £700. TT also burns oil compared to MX5. Still love both cars
I had an mx-5 for 3 years...fun but it killed my back. Now looking at a TT Roadster simply because of interior build quality, trunk, and seating comfort. (Florida native with a garage, approx. 5'11, 180 lbs)
My family bought TTs both turbo diesel variant, one was reliable, other wasnt, but I did find them fun to drive, and since its not the softop, has decent boot space.
Really like these back-to-back comparisons between the two cars, with the non-sugarcoated +realistic overview. It reminds me of 'JayEmm On Cars' when he compared his Lotus Evora to the Cayman GT4. Keep up with the great work. Subscribed!
Wow! There's a compliment I've always wanted to hear! I'm a massive JayEmm fan, so thank you very very much indeed! Thank you so much and for subscribing too!
The TT isn’t a sports car, it’s a front wheel drive tank with a soft top. I looked at all the options for a sports car and never could come up with better option than the MX5
@@nahcuh9140 it’s a front bias system which only shifts power to the back when the haldex determines it, we have an NC 2.0 sport MX5 & a 3.2v6 hardtop TT and love them both for different reasons. The Mazda is a joy to drive slowly (feeling like it’s going 100mph when it’s doing 50) and the Audi is a rocket ship
When I saw your channel I thought it said 977K subs I watched the MX5 MK3.5 vid and then I saw you only had a few videos then I saw you had under 1k subs, and I literally said out loud "HOW!" Keep up the good work you'll make it one day ☺️👍
Thank you so much, this is my favourite comment I've read in ages! I really appreciate that! I'm excited just to tip over the 1k subscriber mark! I thought I'd only ever get 100 views or less per video! Thanks so much again and I hope to see your face pop up on the future videos!
😂 😂 I appreciate that and I sadly agree that I regret saying that too! It's my number one RUclips regret haha!! Really the TT is the car that can work in your life and actually cover lots of categories in one. The comfort and practicality jump is huge but the driving experience (for my tastes) is a long way behind. But I'm now at a point in life where I'm finding the MX-5 harder to justify even though I absolutely love it still!
Enjoyable as usual dude. Interestingly the mk2 TT has a bespoke aluminum chassis, so it wasn't based on the mk5 golf as is commonly thought.. this though makes it a little more dissapointing again that it isn't more engaging- actually considered one myself before the '5'
Thanks very much mate! And ahhh nuts, no way!? Well, you'd never know it sadly, it really did feel like my MK5 Golf GTI with electric steering instead of the hydraulic steering of the GTI. And yeah, the '5 might be missing some creature comforts but the way it makes you feel on each drive more than makes up for it!
Really well balanced and completely fair review. Fyi, we went down the MX5 path and love the car but as an over 6 feet tall gentleman of a certain age, a bit more comfort and space would be nice.
Thank you very much, John. Massively appreciated. I still think you made the right choice, those little journeys in the MX-5 feel special even if they're flawed 😁
I have driven both. My friend loaned me his TT for two weeks while he was in Europe. Yes it was a solid car and definitely more luxurious than my 1990 Miata. But when it came time for me to buy another car. I bought a 2016 MX-5 because it is so much more fun to drive. It's lighter, smaller and it gets compliments daily. I had 427,800 original miles on my 1990 when it was stolen. With that kind of longevity, why would go to another car? Zoom Zoom!
Totally agree! They drive SO differently don't they! The MX-5's are compromised in many ways but they just make you smile and feel like you're treating yourself to a fun journey each time!
Love the review - I'd like to buy an MX5 RF, but I'm now kind of thinking of buying a TTS for its practicality. Its bigger trunk and quatro makes it a more "daily" usable choice for me, even when going in vacations (cannot imagine going uphill in the Alps when it's snowing with a RWD car) - However it will be less fun to drive than the Miata. Difficult choice... It's just me and my wife and we don't want kids, but the Miata is really too small to have it as our only car.
Thank you so much, Stefan! I have to say, I had the MX-5 as my only car for a while and it was the times that I required more practicality or lots of long distance driving that I started to fall out of love with it. I came very close to selling because it was too often the wrong tool for the job. BUT I got a cheap Honda Civic as the daily and now the MX-5 is my weekend/summer toy - and I absolutely adore it again. It's without doubt the better driver's car, it really punches against cars several classes above! My brother still loves his TT convertible and it does a great job of not being too small for lots of their needs. Also, if you got the quattro you could technically handle some snow with the right tyres. The guys from Everyday Driver always did winters in the GT86 with proper winter tyres without issues, so don't worry too hard about RWD if you have the right set of tyres. Have you decided what to do yet?
@@petrolpoodle Thanks a lot for your feedback. I would definitely fit winter tyres on if I'm going into some winter holidays. Not decided yet, I'm going to try the MX5 next Friday 🤭 I was thinking to buy 2 cars as well, but parking space in Paris is already a luxury so 2 cars is a no-no. Will let you know when I make up my mind haha.
@@petrolpoodle Yo, just a heads-up. So I went to try the Miata and I was surprised actually by the trunk space. The car dealer told me it can fit 2 cabine lugage, which I think it's acceptable for us. I tried the 2.0L 184, it's really such a pleasure to drive and actually quite a comfortable ride with the basic package. I'm still thinking, really don't wanna rush it to make the right choice but the Miata clearly has the lead in my heart.
Spot on. The TT is an everyday, enjoyable convertible to feel special in. The MX5 is more for actively driving and having fun, but it's also cramped inside. I had a MK3 MR2 that was far better to drive than the MX5, in fact the Mazda was dull by comparison, but it had no boot and wasn't practical at all. Depends what you want. As an only car the TT is perfect, but it still depends on what you want and your own circumstances.
@@petrolpoodle I thought I'd get some stick for that! But honestly, having driven an MR2 I couldn't understand all the fuss around the MX5. Now, an Elise.....
Thanks a million pal! Really appreciate it! I think we're up to 5 reviews now, they've been great fun so far. I've got 2-3 videos filmed and in the editing process and a HUGE stack of cars ready to review next year, it's finding the time to drive all around the country at the weekends to fit them in haha! And with lockdowns too! Thanks for the sub and hope you enjoy the future vids!
Loved the review bud . I'm sure if you owned a tt you would find the fun in it.driving your brother's car gave you responsibility to not push your personal limits.
Thanks very much pal and there are definitely sportier variants of the TT that I think would be more rewarding to drive - a TTS coupe for example would really fly and I think I'd have said quite different. I have driven it hard and tried to find the limit but I've just found it doesn't have a playful chassis in comparison to cars that dance around on the limit and feel really alive. But now that I live in a different town entirely and my roads are SUPER boring, I seriously value comfort and a wonderful place to sit over the 1 percent of drives being sportier!
I've been wondering this exact same question. My father currently owns an MX5-ND and it's super fun to drive, but the TT is just a lot more powerful and is much more practical (especially the Coupe version), with it's much bigger boot and higher driving position. I feel like the MX5 gets to be too much of a sport's car to use daily.
It's a really tough one isn't it! The NC MX-5 is the most spacious both to sit in and has the biggest boot, but even so it's very limited. It was my only car for 1.5 years and it got a week's grocery shopping in for my girlfriend and I. It just couldn't carry extra stuff on top. If you pack smart you can be surprised but I do love having a bit boot in my Civic! The TT coupe I'm yet to drive but I can really see the appeal in that mega practicality (in comparison). If it were my only car, I'd think about the TT but the reliability really plays on my mind. The MX-5 is literally the most reliable sportscar (in the driver surveys) every single year. So it's a joy to own as long as it can be considered a toy compared to the do-it-all daily
When you pointed out the virtues of one car I was convinced that that was the car for me. Then when you described the virtues of the other I thought, no this one is the car for me. I flipped like that for much of the video. I'd be putty in your hands if you were a car salesman.
Big difference, Rear-drive is nothing like a front-drive. The other issue is reliability and upkeep cost, so it is no contest. It's a matter of style vers substance. Whichever you value more. The Mx-5 wins on those two important factors
@@harrisonmurphy2424 Tell me you know nothing without telling me you know nothing. The difference between them is 55kg, the 3.2 has a smoother power curve and even with the 'ridiculous' weight has a better power to weight ratio. Add to that that I'm a very slim girl who weighs like 50kg and I have no rear seats in mine, lightweight wheels mine is likely lighter than most 1.8T cars if we were to just drive onto a scale. The 3.2 is faster accelerating, higher top end. But as you were foolish enough to @ me, I'm a motorsport engineer, funnily enough a turbo specialist, now why would someone who's entire career is to work with turbos avoid turbo cars and go for NA cars? Well reliability, power delivery and the noise. Now sit down little boy I've stripped more VAG turbos than most people in the world.
@dirpitz6157 Well I'm pretty sure even the older TT is about 1400KG which is 400KG heavier than my MX5 not 50KG so not sure what you talking about Mr Motorsport...
last sept when i was looking at buying a car it was a choice of the TT or mx5 i choose the mx5 and after watching this video the driver in me is saying "dogged a bullet on that one" seriously tho if you want driveing go with the mx5. if you want luxery and looks go with the TT
One is slick, the other is more industrial shaped. One is purelly atmoshpere, the other is turbo. One is rwd, the other is fwd or 4x4. One is JDM as much as it can be, the other comes from german school of build. It all comes to personal liking.
Absolutely, and for me now, I'm really seeing how much where you live can decide the right car for you. I've since moved to Hastings and my driving consists of long, busy A roads and boring hilly stop starts in traffic. At which point, a TT becomes the better car than my MX-5!
This guy could be a pro ,really like his style . About to chop in my TT 225 for an MX5 NC 3.5 sort tech coupe as I got a bit bored with Audi and just fancied a change as a weekend toy . Yes the Audi is rapid with lovely Bauhaus details, but dare I say a wee bit boring and perhaps somewhat effete.
I have a Mk2 TT convertible. And I bought it because I had an MX5 for years. And I wanted a car that had more ...quality, more high end. More safety. Thats the thing. The MX5 feels so flimsy and exposed. Its got less crash protection. The TT has a far more solid build and structure. Its body does no flex or creak at all when hitting a bump. There is zero movement and noise. With the roof up its a saloon car, its like any other car with a roof. But push the button and its a convertible as well. Its two cars in one. And...it has a TURBO! I dont know where he is coming from with no excitement, as mine terrifies me! Its stupidly fast and for a big car you dont feel it, it just does it. You cant press the pedal hard, as if you do its off like a rocket and in seconds your at 70mph with zero effort. And you can get even bigger engines in the Audi...you dont need it you will kill yourself! The MX5 is a superb car and as sporty car, but its tight inside, very tight if you are over 6 feet tall like me at 6'2. So with the TT you have the room of a normal car and a large boot as well....
Completely agree with 99%! Spot on! I'd only defend that the TT is a fun car by all means, and they're brilliant engines - especially after a stage 1 remap they're pretty mad! I just found the naturally aspirated nature of the MX-5, the lack of sound deadening, exaggerated chassis movements and all the sensations that come through to you make it feel far more exciting on a good bunch of twisty roads. The TT is a delightful cruiser, fun in a straight line but just less raw and engaging on a special road. As you say though, it feels like a premium tank (in the good way) in comparison!
@@petrolpoodle Yes true. I had an Mx5 from 2001 till 2022 and it was great. A Mk1 and it was heavily modified, lowered and quick. It was great on B roads and you could do long distances in it, but as I got older I came to the conclusion that the slightest accident in it was going to get me killed. There is no protection at all. No side strength, no roll over, no air bags, nothing. Not even ABS. Like my TT. IT was a great car but rust was starting to be a problem too. The Mk2 TT is aluminium. So I can drive it in winter without any worries of rust, its got side impact protection, air bags all over, traction control, ABS, Roll over hoops etc. And I can fit inside comfortably. And the boot is huge! I have heated leather seats so the top is down all the time, with the windblocker up and I am toasty warm and comfortable. And its still fun on B roads and still handles well. Its so sturdy and planted, you no longer have your teeth rattled loose if you go over a pebble. And the there is no noise, creaking or flexing of the bodyshell. Its a revelation. Mine has the exhaust is a nice roar if you push the pedal hard. But if you do that you will break the sound barrier! As well as the speed limit. Its meant to be comfortable, and its practical and it looks stunning. I was tempted by a Porsche Boxter, but the interior on those is just like an old Astra, there is no quality or comfort as such there either unless you go for a much newer high end model. The TT is the best all round convertible, even if its not a truly sporty car, its still a ...sports car. And its a lot of fun for a day out or long runs and it turns heads too...
I'm debating this very issue with myself....I had a boxter s and I liked it but I always felt like I just wanted to push the seat a little bit further back. Which of these two is the most comfy with leg room and arm room etc? After your reviews I'm swerving to the MX5 NC at present. Cheers.
Hey Simon, That's very interesting! How tall are you? I'm 6ft and my brother 6ft 2 I think, I fit in both just fine but before I had my seat lowered with new brackets my brother didn't comfortably fit in my NC. Now we both fit in much better and he happily drives it. Ultimately the TT has much more interior space and is definitely more comfortable - in S line spec like above, the seats are great in the TT and you have more legroom generally. Less fighting the steering rack with your knees 😂. That said, I'd have my MX-5 every single day really. It's that much better to drive, more peace of mind to own and it's still definitely comfortable despite not being spacious. I drove 7 hours yesterday across country with no problems in my NC. Have a look at my rollbar video though, it's absolutely worth factoring in price wise if you or passengers will sit above the original rollbar. I recommend driving both if you're unsure ☺
It's a weird one, I know of people who are 6ft 3 who fit in the MX-5 and other people who are 6ft 3 and don't! But yes the TT is a far comfier place to be and more accommodating too!
😂 Thanks very much pal, I'm glad you liked it! I've also thought the same thing, that wonderful engine would more than make up for it and the Quattro would come into play over our crap winters! I do respect the TT, I think it serves as a very usable sportscar that a lot of people first jump to from a hatchback. It serves its purpose very well
@@petrolpoodle Agreed. Your content is refreshingly funny, real, and yet informative. 3.2 Q makes for potentially big bills tho! I am selling my motorcycle to join the sports car club again.....I have had Boxsters, Audi A4's etc, but to feel the thrill of a bike in a sports car....for little money. MX5 it is I think!
@@dgbourdon1325 that's made my day, thank you so much. And I completely agree regarding your car comments! Take a little look at my latest video regarding the rollbar replacement on the MX-5. I'm no safety expert so it's worth a pinch of salt there but definitely worth thinking about/factoring in price-wise in my opinion
Great vid....nicely done...however, at the end of the day... with the TT you end up being a typical Audie driver when behind the wheel, as your vid displayed. 2.30 in!! Product of your environment!!!!
Hahahaha haha I was ready to be offended by this comment and then got to that part like ohhhhh that's great hahahaha. Thanks very much mate, glad you liked the video too!
Good review! I've got a mk3 but to be honest it needs to be compared to a tts or a quattro. the standard tt is only a little more powerful but weighs a lot more, and is fwd as well.
Thanks so much pal! And I agree, it's hard to do an Apples for Apples comparison when you've got so many variants of the TT platform, but yeah I'd love to drive the Quattro with either the 3.2 V6 or a remapped 2.0 TFSI. That would add a real punch and give it more legs to stand on for the fun factor. I still have a lot of respect for the TT and times I've wished I was in one, but overall it's the MX-5 that makes me glad I spent money on a properly fun car.
@@petrolpoodle very true mate, let's face it the mx5 is a more true drivers car. But only the quattro versions are just about on level with the nc, if you get hold of one with a map on the 2.0tfsi or the v6 with a loud exhaust you may change your mind.
Had an NB facelift for 15 years. Just traded for a new TT Coupe quattro. Yes the MX5 was fun fun fun but the TT is much faster and much higher quality. Sad to say bye to the Mazda but so much more comfortable on my daily drive.
The good cars I've had: bmw 735i. BMW 320d touring, 184 hp, Jaguar x type, 234 hp, slk 320, 218 hp, 206cc 110, mgf 120. Mx5 nb, 140 and mx5, NC 160. Just.guess which ones I prefer.!
@@petrolpoodle yes, you're right, especially the nb. I have got the nc recently and maybe there is some small work to be done so that it could be as good as the nb.
Super easy answer - the MX-5! Go for it! Just be careful of rust when inspecting before buying. You can find cars the have been rustproofed every few years ☺
Thanks so much! That's funny you say that, have you seen that my most recent video is the E86 Z4 coupe vs E89? I think you'd enjoy! I'm thinking of hounding '@itsjoel' for a go in his vs my MX-5!
Thanks very much pal. I really appreciate that! It's utterly fantastic: RODE Wireless GO. About £150 (or dollars really) and rechargeable by USB C. The transmitter is also a microphone or you can plug a lavalier mic/small shotgun mic into it. I've been really impressed but have decided to add a neat little Lav mic into the mix now. Haven't tried it for the RUclips channel yet though
Mmmm, good review, but two completely different cars. Having owned a TTS (Golf R but with more style) and then a TTRS, if I wanted a fun driving car, it's the MX5 every day. Mind you, if you want to be a hooligan, try the TTRS, but still I reckon the MX5 would be more fun on the UK's roads and you'd probably stand a better chance of hanging onto your licence! 😃
Me too! I think that engine has so much character and would add a lot of drama to the equation! Plus the added quattro jazz would be fun! I think in coupe form the TT makes a lot of sense too tbf!
Mk3 MX-5 feels better to drive for sure, the inputs just feel amazing in comparison and you get far more joy driving in the boring conditions I.e roof off on the sun. I also prefer the interior too. The Clio punches back with the fact it's practical enough to be a daily car and also personally it gives me confidence to throw it about more in the corners. I'd still pick a mk3 MX-5 over it though ☺
I have always admired the MX 5 and my previous car was a 1.8 Audi TT but im in 2 minds as to my next car. Currently own a BMW M135i which i love but after 4 years im ready for a change and miss the roof down weekend cruises. Stuck between an Audi TTS roadster or a Mazda MX5 NC and still stuck even your excelent review and comparison \0/
I tell you what matey, grab yourself a drive in a properly sorted MX-5 and you'll see the light 😉. I worry the TT would feel like a muted and less engaging version of your BMW whereas the MX-5 will be completely its own experience. If you can test drive a BBR 185 or BBR 200 of the Mk3 MX-5, please do that too! That'll fill the speed gap between your BMW and a standard one if you're a fan of straight line speed. But to be fair the regular Sport Tech is still so much fun! TT makes a sensible cruiser but no drive ever felt truly fun.
Sorry for the slow reply! My memory serves that he had some leak regarding I think the valve cover gasket which took out some spark plugs and coil packs. But I think the first time he fixed it, they didn't identify the cause so it just happened again! I can't remember what else now as it's been a while but I think he had some roof leak issues too + one other irritating thing re: the engine but it wasn't catastrophic
Personally I don’t care about prestige of a car brand…anyone with a job can lease one. I care about value for money, reliability and driving experience. The TT interior is nice but I don’t care for the body shape at all. Having had a number of convertibles over the years, I would never go back to a cloth top so the decision was very easy for me. NC2 PRHT for the win! Thanks for the comparison
Thank you for your kind words mate. I also agree, I do really appreciate everything about the TT but the MX-5 is the car that feels leagues better to drive on fun roads. The TT does champion the weekend away with partner duties though!
Very well done I actually considered both, now its clear to me that I prefer the MX 5. Could you also take a look at the Volvo C70 and the Saab 9-3 - both Swedish Cabriolets with 2+2 seats and both are real secret tips. ;)
It's the car that lets you live more of life with less compromise and yet the MX-5 is the one that brings a different level of driving joy! Having held long drifts on a track day in mine, it's something the TT couldn't replicate. But hey, road driving is the majority of our time!
That's really interesting! You're the first Crossfire owner to have commented (that I know of!). I'd love to experience one actually. How does the MX-5 compare? Do you miss anything?
The MX-5 definitely has horrendous rust issues (I cover those in my MX-5 review and forget to mention it here) but the rest aren't common. Haven't seen anyone speak of a bad gearbox or diff in the owner's group. The cheap interior is definitely noticeable next to the Audi's, but when it's the only interior you see each day it's not an unpleasant place to be. They both have their weaknesses but I'd pick the MX-5s personally. Still enjoyed the TT a lot though!
Yes, a NC can rust, but I treated mine carefully and don't drive it in the wet. It's a 2006 with original soft suspension exchanged by a B12 setup and swaybars. Still soft. So: buy a Citroën DS. That's what you call soft. Here VAG Specialists on their web site have fixed prices for the rebuild of the TFSI engine. Does not give much confidence, does it...
@@asphalthedgehog6580 The 'trade' call that engine the ' Totally F-in 5h1t Idea'. My VAG technician relative knows of a simple sequence of events which will right off that motor even with the ignition off? Don't let it rock, in gear, up-hill, from cold.
People look at the TT all wrong, it's not a sports car it's a Hatchback GT. It's basically a Golf R32 coupe, the hatchback you get if you enjoy hot hatches but don't have the seating requirement for children and the only people would chose the roadster over the coupe are either posers, people with no interest in driving or those who have never been in a car that has rolled, hopefully they never do the latter.
@@SageAhmed2222 yeah they're brilliant machines but it's easy to have those costs stack up and make you actually question if it's giving back as much joy as it's costing in pounds! Welcome to the club though, can't get many more smiles for fewer monies!
The mx5 has the interior quality and handling of a base model MK4 golf. The TT does not handle like a mk 5 golf with sports suspension, it turns in much quicker, admittedly there are sharper handling two seaters but the mx5 isnt one of them. Fun doesn't mean good handling, the body roll is ridiculous.
I have to say I do disagree on nearly all fronts there - but that may be down to the fact you may have driven the pre facelift MX-5 NC. They had ridiculous body roll prior to substantial upgrades of and the facelift ones like mine. Also a Sport vs non-sport spec makes a large difference. Mine still had plenty of body roll but it didn't translate to it handling like a barge. It could keep up with 500kg Caterhams in Wales with ease. Having driven it on the limit on a track day, the rear end sustaining long sweeping drifts and whatnot, the MX-5 is in an utterly different league to the TT's more front-heavy, FWD form with no LSD and dead steering. The exact 50-50 weight balance and RWD nature letalone weighing less and having beautiful hydraulic steering, it's chalk and cheese. I can't compare it to a Quattro TT in coupe form, I'm sure there's a world of difference there and I'd love to try one. I did own a Mk5 Golf GTI and that drove superbly (with the older hydraulic steering and extra stiffness), so that's not supposed to be a slight to the TT for feeling like a Mk5 anyway.
I know! German cars are usually pretty unreliable, I've had so many bad experiences but apparently the TT isn't too bad. My brother's hasn't gone too wrong since but I'd stick to my Japanese cars for now
All your whining makes the TT sound like an inferior car, it's not. You missed the whole point of these cars. The TT was not designed to be a sports car and the MX5 was designed originally to be a cheap little fun toy car. Audi did well from the start and Mazda has moved in that direction. I've owned both cars and love them both for different reasons, there is only what you like.
It sounds like you've written this before finishing the video. I literally back the TT and say why it's great and what it's about, I really came round to it and it does a lot of things better than the MX-5. I conclude the MX-5 is a more rewarding sports car experience - which it is and pretty much every comment here and every journalist would agree. I'm seriously confused as to how you've written this having actually seen the video?
I'm a big fan of these! I understand the cheapest ones cost more to run than to buy! Haha my friend bought an 987 05 Boxster S with about 97k on the clock, FSH absolutely pristine. Sadly it gave him about £2.5k of different problems in the first 6 months, but he absolutely loved it. It drove so beautifully, I can see why they're special enough to keep even if they sting you every now and then. Have you got one? How's it been if so? If you want to see it or another car on the channel, I'd be keen
If they were both track toys it'd be simple to pick the best one. Or if they were both cruisers designed for comfort first then they'd be on the same level to really pick a strong winner. But the people watching are coming from all angles and the cars do serve different purposes, which I've also made pretty clear which suits which... So what would you have liked me to say? 😂 No matter what just pick [this one]
Nice review but there is really no comparison between these 2 (you ve actually pointed it out yourself)... In terms of looks the tt looks like an egg... you can't tell the front from the rear if there are no lights attached to the car 😂😂 The tt refers to people that know jack shit about cars...
Hahahaha this comment did make me laugh! Having been to my brother's place in Beckenham a million times I can totally see why the MX-5 just wouldn't have really suited the drives he does and why the TT is a popular choice for basically being a more interesting Golf without a roof haha! But overall it certainly isn't a car that leaves a lasting impression for being outstanding at any given thing. The MX-5 when sorted with a great alignment etc is just mega!
It's the best selling 2 seater ever made, so it can't be that bad. Had mine for 2.5 years, quality is excellent and it's more fun on track than the faster cars I've driven on track. If you live in the US and you drive on mostly straight roads I can totally understand that it'd feel slow and not as nice a place to be sat as the Audi.
Mk2 TT roadster for 3-4k with apr tune is the best value car on the market.The engine and cabin are streets ahead of the mx5.Bought an mx5 a few years ago and couldnt wait to get back in a German car.I even prefer the manual in the TT.
@@surplusstock8778 ya know what it's hard to argue with that and I totally think your opinion is 100 percent solid as an owner of both! The TT is a great car and yeah remapped they bloody fly!! More practical, better interior and very quick. They've got a lot of potential! For track driving with all aids off I still prefer the RWD with LSD, crisper manual, naturally aspirated engine and lighter, better weight balance though. The rotation feeling is amazing on track! Really fun catching the drift as it goes into oversteer first compared to understeer. However, for road driving a mk2 TT with a map is seriously hard to debate for value and fun!
Ah you see 2:40 the Audi TT brings out the idiot in a driver, with all the swearing and hand gestures. Ever thought about being a hairdresser? Steering is for the limp wristed, all image and gadgets. You may need those roll-over bars.
It's the most competitively raced car on the planet and most racing drivers are men, so it's not really a ladies car as such. I think it's a 90s stereotype that's mostly died out that convertibles are for women. SLK, TT, Boxster, MX-5 etc all used to have that reputation but it seems to have died out mostly now
Quite uninformed statement Mazda MX-5 has the highest percentile of male owners of all cars. I've owned three of them one was raced. If you want to have fun in a car you better get yourself in an MX5 and man up a little bit hahaha
For me personally, I'd pick the MX-5 pretty much every time! Now that I've sold it and lived with more practical cars again it would have to be a second car for me to be the MX-5 again, so I do understand why people wanting one car would pick the practical TT. It just lacks driving soul to me! Letalone the problems haha!
I’ve had both, plus a Porsche Cayman, a Z4 and recently a supercharged F-type. I sold the jag as money was tight and bought an MX5, 37k miles, one owner, 2007 mk3. Most fun car ever! No one gets it but as this chap on the video says, you fall back in love with driving! Plus it only cost me £4K!!!!! Fab car!!
Amen, Adam!
Did you get the 1.8 version or the 2.0 litre I’m struggling to find a 2.0l version but could get my hands on a 1.8 litre in good condition low miles 10 plate. Would you say the 30 hp makes a difference or is it just the raw feel of the car?
@harleyretallick1426 NB owner, with a car of this weight 30hp of pure engine power actually makes a huge difference in feeling.
Sounds like you're living in a dream world and congratulations for buying the model most worthy of the hairdresser car of the year award.
I’ve had my mx5 nc for 4 years and every time I get in it I smile. I’ve never owned a car that does this and I’ve had a lot of cars.
Never owned an S2000 I guess haha 😉
I think the MX-5 has a purity aspect over the Audi TT. It is designed to be a roadster from the ground up. No turbo, no power rear screen. Just simplicity.
Completely agree! It's night and day in feel! Thanks for watching more videos pal!
Absolutely ; no unnecessary frills, front engine, rear drive , and the best fun you can have round corners . I'm on my 4th one , two Mk 3s and 2 Mk4s , I've owned them since 2008 . At 85 , I'm getting on a bit , but top down all year round is a must , and unless it's chucking it down with rain , you dont even feel it. At my age, my last car , and I couldn't do better !
The Audi was engineered to be a roadster from the get-go
I live in China, the price of NC has been rising in recent years, you can't believe it, it has been twice as expensive as TT, I am very happy to drive NC, but China is a big country, and it needs to be driven for a long time, so I choose to drive TT every day, but it must be mx5 on weekends!Great video ！Good luck to you
That is the choice I'd make in your position too! Great choice. And thank you for your kind words :)
Love it, generous mix of humour and quality consumer advice. Awesome that you acknowledge not everyone out there is a driving enthusiast. Keep em coming Jimboy!
Thanks so much mate, what a fantastic, kind comment! Really appreciate that! 😊
I have a mk2 version of both cars. Love them both. Mx5 is much more agile, cheap to maintain and will probably go up in value so long as the rust is kept at bay, just have to be careful in the wet with the back end. TT is so much quicker, refined and much better on longer journeys especially motorways. The first day of owning the TT I never stopped smiling due to the performance. I remember people saying it’s so much fun to rev out the mx5 thro the gears something I didn’t really get until owning the TT, in the Audi you can only rev it out in 1st and 2nd otherwise you’ll be over the speed limit if you did it in 3rd. Owned the mx5 for 2 years and only the cam sensor needed replacing (£15 fitted in a couple of minutes), only owned the TT for a month so early days yet, but just make sure it’s got a good service history. Mx5 service history not so important, more important is the body condition (sills and arches). TT definitely a great gt car for daily use, mx5 weekend fun or short journey daily.
A month later, how's the TT treating you reliability wise?
@@tag2222 Good timing with your comment. PCV valve needed replacing, made a noise like a pulley wheel nearing the end of its life.
Supposedly a common fault
@@tag2222 done 7,000 miles now in 5 months nothing further gone wrong other than the pcv valve, I also had a Stage 1 tune for lat 3,000 miles
@@jjkingkongjjracingstar8410 Glad to hear the TT's treating you well! And do you recommend the Stage 1 mod? Mine's still stock, but loving it.
20,000 miles in just over a year. Some kind of pump went on the Quattro system so also had an oil change and filter cleaned, cost £750. Revo Stage 1 excellent 0-60 in just over 5secs, do not buy cheap remaps or ones that haven’t been tried and tested. MX5 needed some welding on the sills, cost around £700. TT also burns oil compared to MX5. Still love both cars
Nice video, not getting rid of my MX5 nc2 ever. Love the simplicity of a truly great sports car.😊
Agree about the platform. Golf is to the TT what RX8 is to the NC Miata.
I had an mx-5 for 3 years...fun but it killed my back. Now looking at a TT Roadster simply because of interior build quality, trunk, and seating comfort. (Florida native with a garage, approx. 5'11, 180 lbs)
Completely agree, the TT isn't really a sports car but instead a small GT. Great review though, love the vs style of comparison!
My family bought TTs both turbo diesel variant, one was reliable, other wasnt, but I did find them fun to drive, and since its not the softop, has decent boot space.
Really like these back-to-back comparisons between the two cars, with the non-sugarcoated +realistic overview. It reminds me of 'JayEmm On Cars' when he compared his Lotus Evora to the Cayman GT4. Keep up with the great work. Subscribed!
Wow! There's a compliment I've always wanted to hear! I'm a massive JayEmm fan, so thank you very very much indeed!
Thank you so much and for subscribing too!
The TT isn’t a sports car, it’s a front wheel drive tank with a soft top. I looked at all the options for a sports car and never could come up with better option than the MX5
MX5 as standard is a sporty car rather than a sports car.
3.2 v6, 2.0tdi, tts and ttrs are all AWD
@@nahcuh9140 it’s a front bias system which only shifts power to the back when the haldex determines it, we have an NC 2.0 sport MX5 & a 3.2v6 hardtop TT and love them both for different reasons.
The Mazda is a joy to drive slowly (feeling like it’s going 100mph when it’s doing 50) and the Audi is a rocket ship
When I saw your channel I thought it said 977K subs I watched the MX5 MK3.5 vid and then I saw you only had a few videos then I saw you had under 1k subs, and I literally said out loud "HOW!"
Keep up the good work you'll make it one day ☺️👍
Thank you so much, this is my favourite comment I've read in ages!
I really appreciate that! I'm excited just to tip over the 1k subscriber mark! I thought I'd only ever get 100 views or less per video!
Thanks so much again and I hope to see your face pop up on the future videos!
Had three mx5s, thinking about TT. Thank you, excellent and very thoughtful review, apart from wishing a crash on another driver!
😂 😂 I appreciate that and I sadly agree that I regret saying that too! It's my number one RUclips regret haha!!
Really the TT is the car that can work in your life and actually cover lots of categories in one. The comfort and practicality jump is huge but the driving experience (for my tastes) is a long way behind.
But I'm now at a point in life where I'm finding the MX-5 harder to justify even though I absolutely love it still!
I hardly ever watch videos all the way through but I thoroughly enjoyed this.
Thank you so much, Steven, I really appreciate it! I'm glad you enjoyed!
You had me at 'wafted'. Excellent again!
Enjoyable as usual dude. Interestingly the mk2 TT has a bespoke aluminum chassis, so it wasn't based on the mk5 golf as is commonly thought.. this though makes it a little more dissapointing again that it isn't more engaging- actually considered one myself before the '5'
Thanks very much mate!
And ahhh nuts, no way!? Well, you'd never know it sadly, it really did feel like my MK5 Golf GTI with electric steering instead of the hydraulic steering of the GTI.
And yeah, the '5 might be missing some creature comforts but the way it makes you feel on each drive more than makes up for it!
Really well balanced and completely fair review. Fyi, we went down the MX5 path and love the car but as an over 6 feet tall gentleman of a certain age, a bit more comfort and space would be nice.
Thank you very much, John. Massively appreciated.
I still think you made the right choice, those little journeys in the MX-5 feel special even if they're flawed 😁
I have driven both. My friend loaned me his TT for two weeks while he was in Europe. Yes it was a solid car and definitely more luxurious than my 1990 Miata. But when it came time for me to buy another car. I bought a 2016 MX-5 because it is so much more fun to drive. It's lighter, smaller and it gets compliments daily. I had 427,800 original miles on my 1990 when it was stolen. With that kind of longevity, why would go to another car? Zoom Zoom!
Totally agree! They drive SO differently don't they! The MX-5's are compromised in many ways but they just make you smile and feel like you're treating yourself to a fun journey each time!
Love the review - I'd like to buy an MX5 RF, but I'm now kind of thinking of buying a TTS for its practicality. Its bigger trunk and quatro makes it a more "daily" usable choice for me, even when going in vacations (cannot imagine going uphill in the Alps when it's snowing with a RWD car) - However it will be less fun to drive than the Miata. Difficult choice... It's just me and my wife and we don't want kids, but the Miata is really too small to have it as our only car.
Thank you so much, Stefan!
I have to say, I had the MX-5 as my only car for a while and it was the times that I required more practicality or lots of long distance driving that I started to fall out of love with it. I came very close to selling because it was too often the wrong tool for the job. BUT I got a cheap Honda Civic as the daily and now the MX-5 is my weekend/summer toy - and I absolutely adore it again. It's without doubt the better driver's car, it really punches against cars several classes above!
My brother still loves his TT convertible and it does a great job of not being too small for lots of their needs. Also, if you got the quattro you could technically handle some snow with the right tyres. The guys from Everyday Driver always did winters in the GT86 with proper winter tyres without issues, so don't worry too hard about RWD if you have the right set of tyres.
Have you decided what to do yet?
@@petrolpoodle Thanks a lot for your feedback. I would definitely fit winter tyres on if I'm going into some winter holidays. Not decided yet, I'm going to try the MX5 next Friday 🤭 I was thinking to buy 2 cars as well, but parking space in Paris is already a luxury so 2 cars is a no-no. Will let you know when I make up my mind haha.
@@petrolpoodle Yo, just a heads-up. So I went to try the Miata and I was surprised actually by the trunk space. The car dealer told me it can fit 2 cabine lugage, which I think it's acceptable for us. I tried the 2.0L 184, it's really such a pleasure to drive and actually quite a comfortable ride with the basic package. I'm still thinking, really don't wanna rush it to make the right choice but the Miata clearly has the lead in my heart.
Spot on. The TT is an everyday, enjoyable convertible to feel special in. The MX5 is more for actively driving and having fun, but it's also cramped inside. I had a MK3 MR2 that was far better to drive than the MX5, in fact the Mazda was dull by comparison, but it had no boot and wasn't practical at all. Depends what you want. As an only car the TT is perfect, but it still depends on what you want and your own circumstances.
A perfect summary! Agreed!
@@petrolpoodle I thought I'd get some stick for that! But honestly, having driven an MR2 I couldn't understand all the fuss around the MX5. Now, an Elise.....
Yet again another fantastic review!
Great review. I had no idea the tt was built on the golf platform! Look forward to more videos!
Thanks a million pal! Really appreciate it!
I think we're up to 5 reviews now, they've been great fun so far. I've got 2-3 videos filmed and in the editing process and a HUGE stack of cars ready to review next year, it's finding the time to drive all around the country at the weekends to fit them in haha! And with lockdowns too!
Thanks for the sub and hope you enjoy the future vids!
Loved the review bud . I'm sure if you owned a tt you would find the fun in it.driving your brother's car gave you responsibility to not push your personal limits.
Thanks very much pal and there are definitely sportier variants of the TT that I think would be more rewarding to drive - a TTS coupe for example would really fly and I think I'd have said quite different.
I have driven it hard and tried to find the limit but I've just found it doesn't have a playful chassis in comparison to cars that dance around on the limit and feel really alive. But now that I live in a different town entirely and my roads are SUPER boring, I seriously value comfort and a wonderful place to sit over the 1 percent of drives being sportier!
I've been wondering this exact same question. My father currently owns an MX5-ND and it's super fun to drive, but the TT is just a lot more powerful and is much more practical (especially the Coupe version), with it's much bigger boot and higher driving position. I feel like the MX5 gets to be too much of a sport's car to use daily.
It's a really tough one isn't it!
The NC MX-5 is the most spacious both to sit in and has the biggest boot, but even so it's very limited.
It was my only car for 1.5 years and it got a week's grocery shopping in for my girlfriend and I. It just couldn't carry extra stuff on top. If you pack smart you can be surprised but I do love having a bit boot in my Civic!
The TT coupe I'm yet to drive but I can really see the appeal in that mega practicality (in comparison).
If it were my only car, I'd think about the TT but the reliability really plays on my mind. The MX-5 is literally the most reliable sportscar (in the driver surveys) every single year. So it's a joy to own as long as it can be considered a toy compared to the do-it-all daily
When you pointed out the virtues of one car I was convinced that that was the car for me. Then when you described the virtues of the other I thought, no this one is the car for me. I flipped like that for much of the video. I'd be putty in your hands if you were a car salesman.
Hahaha that's great! Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed it! Do you have a favourite after all?
@@petrolpoodle Yes. But I won't drive a wedge between brothers by telling you what it is.
Another great review buddy.
Big difference, Rear-drive is nothing like a front-drive. The other issue is reliability and upkeep cost, so it is no contest. It's a matter of style vers substance. Whichever you value more. The Mx-5 wins on those two important factors
I'll keep my 3.2 V6 4wd and my hard top, not a fan of floppy cars with small engines xD
@@Dirpitz we all have our priorities
@dirpitz6157 Enjoy the ridiculous amount of extra weight too 🙃
@@harrisonmurphy2424 Tell me you know nothing without telling me you know nothing. The difference between them is 55kg, the 3.2 has a smoother power curve and even with the 'ridiculous' weight has a better power to weight ratio. Add to that that I'm a very slim girl who weighs like 50kg and I have no rear seats in mine, lightweight wheels mine is likely lighter than most 1.8T cars if we were to just drive onto a scale. The 3.2 is faster accelerating, higher top end. But as you were foolish enough to @ me, I'm a motorsport engineer, funnily enough a turbo specialist, now why would someone who's entire career is to work with turbos avoid turbo cars and go for NA cars? Well reliability, power delivery and the noise. Now sit down little boy I've stripped more VAG turbos than most people in the world.
@dirpitz6157 Well I'm pretty sure even the older TT is about 1400KG which is 400KG heavier than my MX5 not 50KG so not sure what you talking about Mr Motorsport...
last sept when i was looking at buying a car it was a choice of the TT or mx5
i choose the mx5
and after watching this video the driver in me is saying "dogged a bullet on that one"
seriously tho if you want driveing go with the mx5.
if you want luxery and looks go with the TT
Great comparison - love the style!
One is slick, the other is more industrial shaped.
One is purelly atmoshpere, the other is turbo.
One is rwd, the other is fwd or 4x4.
One is JDM as much as it can be, the other comes from german school of build.
It all comes to personal liking.
Absolutely, and for me now, I'm really seeing how much where you live can decide the right car for you. I've since moved to Hastings and my driving consists of long, busy A roads and boring hilly stop starts in traffic. At which point, a TT becomes the better car than my MX-5!
This guy could be a pro ,really like his style .
About to chop in my TT 225 for an MX5 NC 3.5 sort tech coupe as I got a bit bored with Audi and just fancied a change as a weekend toy . Yes the Audi is rapid with lovely Bauhaus details, but dare I say a wee bit boring and perhaps somewhat effete.
I've just seen this 3 months late somehow! Thank you so much, what a seriously kind comment!
How did the swap go? What are your thoughts on the NC?
Great review, perfect summary, from a “down 2 earth” guy. From Audi and mx5 owner
Thank you so much, James. These comments really genuinely boost my day, I much appreciate it.
I have a Mk2 TT convertible. And I bought it because I had an MX5 for years. And I wanted a car that had more ...quality, more high end. More safety. Thats the thing. The MX5 feels so flimsy and exposed. Its got less crash protection. The TT has a far more solid build and structure. Its body does no flex or creak at all when hitting a bump. There is zero movement and noise. With the roof up its a saloon car, its like any other car with a roof. But push the button and its a convertible as well. Its two cars in one. And...it has a TURBO! I dont know where he is coming from with no excitement, as mine terrifies me! Its stupidly fast and for a big car you dont feel it, it just does it. You cant press the pedal hard, as if you do its off like a rocket and in seconds your at 70mph with zero effort. And you can get even bigger engines in the Audi...you dont need it you will kill yourself! The MX5 is a superb car and as sporty car, but its tight inside, very tight if you are over 6 feet tall like me at 6'2. So with the TT you have the room of a normal car and a large boot as well....
Completely agree with 99%! Spot on!
I'd only defend that the TT is a fun car by all means, and they're brilliant engines - especially after a stage 1 remap they're pretty mad!
I just found the naturally aspirated nature of the MX-5, the lack of sound deadening, exaggerated chassis movements and all the sensations that come through to you make it feel far more exciting on a good bunch of twisty roads.
The TT is a delightful cruiser, fun in a straight line but just less raw and engaging on a special road. As you say though, it feels like a premium tank (in the good way) in comparison!
@@petrolpoodle Yes true. I had an Mx5 from 2001 till 2022 and it was great. A Mk1 and it was heavily modified, lowered and quick. It was great on B roads and you could do long distances in it, but as I got older I came to the conclusion that the slightest accident in it was going to get me killed. There is no protection at all. No side strength, no roll over, no air bags, nothing. Not even ABS. Like my TT. IT was a great car but rust was starting to be a problem too. The Mk2 TT is aluminium. So I can drive it in winter without any worries of rust, its got side impact protection, air bags all over, traction control, ABS, Roll over hoops etc. And I can fit inside comfortably. And the boot is huge! I have heated leather seats so the top is down all the time, with the windblocker up and I am toasty warm and comfortable. And its still fun on B roads and still handles well. Its so sturdy and planted, you no longer have your teeth rattled loose if you go over a pebble. And the there is no noise, creaking or flexing of the bodyshell. Its a revelation. Mine has the exhaust is a nice roar if you push the pedal hard. But if you do that you will break the sound barrier! As well as the speed limit. Its meant to be comfortable, and its practical and it looks stunning. I was tempted by a Porsche Boxter, but the interior on those is just like an old Astra, there is no quality or comfort as such there either unless you go for a much newer high end model. The TT is the best all round convertible, even if its not a truly sporty car, its still a ...sports car. And its a lot of fun for a day out or long runs and it turns heads too...
That road rage cracked me right up😂 nice one
What's funnier is that in the analytics you can see that's the precise moment a bunch of people thought 'what a dickhead' and bail from the video 😂 😂
@@petrolpoodle No way! 😂😂 If anything, that made me want to keep watching! Keep up the good work. Love the videos 👍
@@adrianbrzostek3163 😂 😂 thank you very much sir!
Thanks for this. I’ve owned a mk 1 MX5 and TT and have been trying to decide between these 2 next. I think this comparison is same with the mk1s.
Glad to help!
I have an MX5 NC myself and love it. Just add a quality manifold and exhaust and BBR cams and you have the same power as the Audi.
Oh god yes, I so want to go that route but good gravy, you're looking at £1200 minimum to £2000. It's on my long-term list though!
I'm debating this very issue with myself....I had a boxter s and I liked it but I always felt like I just wanted to push the seat a little bit further back. Which of these two is the most comfy with leg room and arm room etc? After your reviews I'm swerving to the MX5 NC at present. Cheers.
Hey Simon,
That's very interesting! How tall are you?
I'm 6ft and my brother 6ft 2 I think, I fit in both just fine but before I had my seat lowered with new brackets my brother didn't comfortably fit in my NC. Now we both fit in much better and he happily drives it.
Ultimately the TT has much more interior space and is definitely more comfortable - in S line spec like above, the seats are great in the TT and you have more legroom generally. Less fighting the steering rack with your knees 😂.
That said, I'd have my MX-5 every single day really. It's that much better to drive, more peace of mind to own and it's still definitely comfortable despite not being spacious.
I drove 7 hours yesterday across country with no problems in my NC. Have a look at my rollbar video though, it's absolutely worth factoring in price wise if you or passengers will sit above the original rollbar.
I recommend driving both if you're unsure ☺
I have a Mazda Mx5 2012 hardtop 2.0 engine! I love it 😎👍
The best!
One you can fit in and the other you can not if your long legged?
Driving comfort is key too.
It's a weird one, I know of people who are 6ft 3 who fit in the MX-5 and other people who are 6ft 3 and don't! But yes the TT is a far comfier place to be and more accommodating too!
Nice vid chap, had me chuckling! Different cars, for different people.....the 3.2 TT might put a mile on ya face, if not feeling through your fingers!
😂 Thanks very much pal, I'm glad you liked it!
I've also thought the same thing, that wonderful engine would more than make up for it and the Quattro would come into play over our crap winters!
I do respect the TT, I think it serves as a very usable sportscar that a lot of people first jump to from a hatchback. It serves its purpose very well
@@petrolpoodle Agreed. Your content is refreshingly funny, real, and yet informative. 3.2 Q makes for potentially big bills tho! I am selling my motorcycle to join the sports car club again.....I have had Boxsters, Audi A4's etc, but to feel the thrill of a bike in a sports car....for little money. MX5 it is I think!
@@dgbourdon1325 that's made my day, thank you so much.
And I completely agree regarding your car comments! Take a little look at my latest video regarding the rollbar replacement on the MX-5.
I'm no safety expert so it's worth a pinch of salt there but definitely worth thinking about/factoring in price-wise in my opinion
@@petrolpoodle Cool, will do. I have my eye on a 2.0 venture edition....
Great balanced review... 👍👍👍
Great vid....nicely done...however, at the end of the day... with the TT you end up being a typical Audie driver when behind the wheel, as your vid displayed. 2.30 in!! Product of your environment!!!!
Hahahaha haha I was ready to be offended by this comment and then got to that part like ohhhhh that's great hahahaha. Thanks very much mate, glad you liked the video too!
Great video, really interesting comparison.
Good review! I've got a mk3 but to be honest it needs to be compared to a tts or a quattro. the standard tt is only a little more powerful but weighs a lot more, and is fwd as well.
Thanks so much pal! And I agree, it's hard to do an Apples for Apples comparison when you've got so many variants of the TT platform, but yeah I'd love to drive the Quattro with either the 3.2 V6 or a remapped 2.0 TFSI. That would add a real punch and give it more legs to stand on for the fun factor.
I still have a lot of respect for the TT and times I've wished I was in one, but overall it's the MX-5 that makes me glad I spent money on a properly fun car.
@@petrolpoodle very true mate, let's face it the mx5 is a more true drivers car. But only the quattro versions are just about on level with the nc, if you get hold of one with a map on the 2.0tfsi or the v6 with a loud exhaust you may change your mind.
Had an NB facelift for 15 years. Just traded for a new TT Coupe quattro. Yes the MX5 was fun fun fun but the TT is much faster and much higher quality. Sad to say bye to the Mazda but so much more comfortable on my daily drive.
Yeah I completely get it! I'm now at an age now since recording where I actually appreciate the refinement more too
What a great review
Thanks so much, Stan, and thanks for watching the F-Type review too!
The good cars I've had: bmw 735i.
BMW 320d touring, 184 hp,
Jaguar x type, 234 hp, slk 320, 218 hp, 206cc 110, mgf 120.
Mx5 nb, 140 and mx5, NC 160.
Just.guess which ones I prefer.!
Wow, those are some seriously impressive motors you've had there!
I would say the MX-5s have left the biggest impression when it comes to driving fun?
@@petrolpoodle yes, you're right, especially
the nb. I have got the nc recently and maybe there is some small work to be done so that it could be as good as the nb.
I debating between the 2, i don't think i will trust the reliabilty of the Audi. What do you think is more reliable between the 2?
Super easy answer - the MX-5! Go for it! Just be careful of rust when inspecting before buying. You can find cars the have been rustproofed every few years ☺
@@petrolpoodle thanks!
Great review! Hope you’re gonna do a mx5 vs e85 Z4 review as well.
Thanks so much! That's funny you say that, have you seen that my most recent video is the E86 Z4 coupe vs E89?
I think you'd enjoy!
I'm thinking of hounding '@itsjoel' for a go in his vs my MX-5!
@@petrolpoodle ooops, I saw that one actually! 🙈
Its the mx5 for driving and cost of ownership. The TT is nicer to be in but costs double or triple to own.
I enjoyed watching this really nice review mate. What wireless mic are you using?
Thanks very much pal. I really appreciate that!
It's utterly fantastic: RODE Wireless GO. About £150 (or dollars really) and rechargeable by USB C. The transmitter is also a microphone or you can plug a lavalier mic/small shotgun mic into it.
I've been really impressed but have decided to add a neat little Lav mic into the mix now. Haven't tried it for the RUclips channel yet though
Great review
Mmmm, good review, but two completely different cars. Having owned a TTS (Golf R but with more style) and then a TTRS, if I wanted a fun driving car, it's the MX5 every day. Mind you, if you want to be a hooligan, try the TTRS, but still I reckon the MX5 would be more fun on the UK's roads and you'd probably stand a better chance of hanging onto your licence! 😃
Couldn't agree more! It's the MX-5 for me for 99 percent of driving but I do get why the TT and TTRS work better as an all rounder
Would love to know how it compared to a mark 2 3.2 Quattro
Me too! I think that engine has so much character and would add a lot of drama to the equation! Plus the added quattro jazz would be fun! I think in coupe form the TT makes a lot of sense too tbf!
"The answer is always MX-5."
Hi! Can you please tell me where you got the plastic tray for the mk3 mx-5 boot? I've searched everywhere and cannot find one.
Hey Johnny,
I'm so sorry to say that it came in the car, I had no idea it was special!
I wish you the best of luck pal!
Hey great vid !!! Thanks. What would you choses between à Clio 182 and a Mazda mx5 mk3. Pleasure wise
Mk3 MX-5 feels better to drive for sure, the inputs just feel amazing in comparison and you get far more joy driving in the boring conditions I.e roof off on the sun.
I also prefer the interior too.
The Clio punches back with the fact it's practical enough to be a daily car and also personally it gives me confidence to throw it about more in the corners.
I'd still pick a mk3 MX-5 over it though ☺
@@petrolpoodle thanks a lot and continue sharing some great content, greetings from France
I have always admired the MX 5 and my previous car was a 1.8 Audi TT but im in 2 minds as to my next car. Currently own a BMW M135i which i love but after 4 years im ready for a change and miss the roof down weekend cruises. Stuck between an Audi TTS roadster or a Mazda MX5 NC and still stuck even your excelent review and comparison \0/
I tell you what matey, grab yourself a drive in a properly sorted MX-5 and you'll see the light 😉. I worry the TT would feel like a muted and less engaging version of your BMW whereas the MX-5 will be completely its own experience.
If you can test drive a BBR 185 or BBR 200 of the Mk3 MX-5, please do that too! That'll fill the speed gap between your BMW and a standard one if you're a fan of straight line speed. But to be fair the regular Sport Tech is still so much fun!
TT makes a sensible cruiser but no drive ever felt truly fun.
Can you please let us know what went wrong the your brother's TT that he had to fix? Thanks
Sorry for the slow reply!
My memory serves that he had some leak regarding I think the valve cover gasket which took out some spark plugs and coil packs. But I think the first time he fixed it, they didn't identify the cause so it just happened again!
I can't remember what else now as it's been a while but I think he had some roof leak issues too + one other irritating thing re: the engine but it wasn't catastrophic
Personally I don’t care about prestige of a car brand…anyone with a job can lease one. I care about value for money, reliability and driving experience. The TT interior is nice but I don’t care for the body shape at all. Having had a number of convertibles over the years, I would never go back to a cloth top so the decision was very easy for me. NC2 PRHT for the win! Thanks for the comparison
Thank you for your kind words mate. I also agree, I do really appreciate everything about the TT but the MX-5 is the car that feels leagues better to drive on fun roads. The TT does champion the weekend away with partner duties though!
Very well done
I actually considered both, now its clear to me that I prefer the MX 5.
Could you also take a look at the Volvo C70 and the Saab 9-3 - both Swedish Cabriolets with 2+2 seats and both are real secret tips. ;)
Sorry I missed this comment from so long ago! I'd love to review those! If you know anyone with one, send them my way!
Tt of course,
It's the car that lets you live more of life with less compromise and yet the MX-5 is the one that brings a different level of driving joy! Having held long drifts on a track day in mine, it's something the TT couldn't replicate. But hey, road driving is the majority of our time!
I had a Chrysler Crossfire that blew the TT away in every way. I just traded it in for a MX5d
That's really interesting! You're the first Crossfire owner to have commented (that I know of!). I'd love to experience one actually. How does the MX-5 compare? Do you miss anything?
Doubt that a crossfire can blow any TT away... no offense... but glad you made the right decision with the mx5👍👌
Ill get an mx5 to keep for years and years to come... the TT ill sell when the warranty runs out...
Good video😊
Thanks very much, Gordon!
Audi hasn't problems with rust,
bad gear box,leak differential,
hard suspension,cheap interior...but mx5 has all of that:(
The MX-5 definitely has horrendous rust issues (I cover those in my MX-5 review and forget to mention it here) but the rest aren't common. Haven't seen anyone speak of a bad gearbox or diff in the owner's group.
The cheap interior is definitely noticeable next to the Audi's, but when it's the only interior you see each day it's not an unpleasant place to be.
They both have their weaknesses but I'd pick the MX-5s personally. Still enjoyed the TT a lot though!
I’m on my 3rd mx5. Never had to take them to the mechanic. Rust? Hard suspension? Which cars have you been driving?
Yes, a NC can rust, but I treated mine carefully and don't drive it in the wet. It's a 2006 with original soft suspension exchanged by a B12 setup and swaybars. Still soft. So: buy a Citroën DS. That's what you call soft.
Here VAG Specialists on their web site have fixed prices for the rebuild of the TFSI engine. Does not give much confidence, does it...
@@asphalthedgehog6580 The 'trade' call that engine the ' Totally F-in 5h1t Idea'. My VAG technician relative knows of a simple sequence of events which will right off that motor even with the ignition off? Don't let it rock, in gear, up-hill, from cold.
People look at the TT all wrong, it's not a sports car it's a Hatchback GT. It's basically a Golf R32 coupe, the hatchback you get if you enjoy hot hatches but don't have the seating requirement for children and the only people would chose the roadster over the coupe are either posers, people with no interest in driving or those who have never been in a car that has rolled, hopefully they never do the latter.
This hits the nail on the head!
Maybe consider an early lotus Elise
Oooooooo with extra cash I absolutely would! I don't think Elises start at £5-6k do they? But yes what absolute machines!
Why are we comparing cars that cost 20k different?
They were both bought for around £6000 only 1 year apart in age. They sell for the same money here in the UK. Where are you based?
the TT is nice, but it ain't a Miata.
Was actually at the point of considering either of these two cars. Bought mx5 nc :)
Previously had a 2020 m135i
A great choice! How come you sold the BMW?
@@petrolpoodle Thanks! Beemer was nice but sold it as it was very costly to run (I knew it would be a tad costly but not as much as it came out to be)
@@SageAhmed2222 yeah they're brilliant machines but it's easy to have those costs stack up and make you actually question if it's giving back as much joy as it's costing in pounds! Welcome to the club though, can't get many more smiles for fewer monies!
@@petrolpoodle too right there, thanks man! super happy with it, smiling everytime I drive it ;)
why not both, boxter s
You're the first English person I've heard say "off of".
Miata
Is
Always
The
Answer
The mx5 has the interior quality and handling of a base model MK4 golf. The TT does not handle like a mk 5 golf with sports suspension, it turns in much quicker, admittedly there are sharper handling two seaters but the mx5 isnt one of them. Fun doesn't mean good handling, the body roll is ridiculous.
I have to say I do disagree on nearly all fronts there - but that may be down to the fact you may have driven the pre facelift MX-5 NC. They had ridiculous body roll prior to substantial upgrades of and the facelift ones like mine. Also a Sport vs non-sport spec makes a large difference. Mine still had plenty of body roll but it didn't translate to it handling like a barge. It could keep up with 500kg Caterhams in Wales with ease.
Having driven it on the limit on a track day, the rear end sustaining long sweeping drifts and whatnot, the MX-5 is in an utterly different league to the TT's more front-heavy, FWD form with no LSD and dead steering. The exact 50-50 weight balance and RWD nature letalone weighing less and having beautiful hydraulic steering, it's chalk and cheese.
I can't compare it to a Quattro TT in coupe form, I'm sure there's a world of difference there and I'd love to try one. I did own a Mk5 Golf GTI and that drove superbly (with the older hydraulic steering and extra stiffness), so that's not supposed to be a slight to the TT for feeling like a Mk5 anyway.
The TT is a Golf floor pan. I drove one at the Audi launch some years ago and was totally underwhelmed.... So boring.
Who the hell equates German with reliability? I really thought he was joking at first.
I know! German cars are usually pretty unreliable, I've had so many bad experiences but apparently the TT isn't too bad. My brother's hasn't gone too wrong since but I'd stick to my Japanese cars for now
Audi TT Vs Mx5 like adult to child cannot vs together
Done well in life 😂😂 It's a sales rep car! MX5 for the real driver. TT for the loser. 🙂
All your whining makes the TT sound like an inferior car, it's not. You missed the whole point of these cars. The TT was not designed to be a sports car and the MX5 was designed originally to be a cheap little fun toy car. Audi did well from the start and Mazda has moved in that direction. I've owned both cars and love them both for different reasons, there is only what you like.
It sounds like you've written this before finishing the video. I literally back the TT and say why it's great and what it's about, I really came round to it and it does a lot of things better than the MX-5. I conclude the MX-5 is a more rewarding sports car experience - which it is and pretty much every comment here and every journalist would agree. I'm seriously confused as to how you've written this having actually seen the video?
Porsche boxster
I'm a big fan of these!
I understand the cheapest ones cost more to run than to buy! Haha my friend bought an 987 05 Boxster S with about 97k on the clock, FSH absolutely pristine.
Sadly it gave him about £2.5k of different problems in the first 6 months, but he absolutely loved it. It drove so beautifully, I can see why they're special enough to keep even if they sting you every now and then.
Have you got one? How's it been if so?
If you want to see it or another car on the channel, I'd be keen
I eat them up in my mx5. Always.
so after all that your answer is, buy what you like. What a novel idea!
If they were both track toys it'd be simple to pick the best one. Or if they were both cruisers designed for comfort first then they'd be on the same level to really pick a strong winner.
But the people watching are coming from all angles and the cars do serve different purposes, which I've also made pretty clear which suits which...
So what would you have liked me to say? 😂 No matter what just pick [this one]
Nice review but there is really no comparison between these 2 (you ve actually pointed it out yourself)... In terms of looks the tt looks like an egg... you can't tell the front from the rear if there are no lights attached to the car 😂😂 The tt refers to people that know jack shit about cars...
Hahahaha this comment did make me laugh! Having been to my brother's place in Beckenham a million times I can totally see why the MX-5 just wouldn't have really suited the drives he does and why the TT is a popular choice for basically being a more interesting Golf without a roof haha! But overall it certainly isn't a car that leaves a lasting impression for being outstanding at any given thing. The MX-5 when sorted with a great alignment etc is just mega!
Colum
A British person is able to be rude on the streets?
Has to happen at least once a year! hahaha
mx5 is the most over rated car,slow and low quality
It's the best selling 2 seater ever made, so it can't be that bad. Had mine for 2.5 years, quality is excellent and it's more fun on track than the faster cars I've driven on track.
If you live in the US and you drive on mostly straight roads I can totally understand that it'd feel slow and not as nice a place to be sat as the Audi.
Mk2 TT roadster for 3-4k with apr tune is the best value car on the market.The engine and cabin are streets ahead of the mx5.Bought an mx5 a few years ago and couldnt wait to get back in a German car.I even prefer the manual in the TT.
@@surplusstock8778 ya know what it's hard to argue with that and I totally think your opinion is 100 percent solid as an owner of both! The TT is a great car and yeah remapped they bloody fly!! More practical, better interior and very quick.
They've got a lot of potential!
For track driving with all aids off I still prefer the RWD with LSD, crisper manual, naturally aspirated engine and lighter, better weight balance though. The rotation feeling is amazing on track! Really fun catching the drift as it goes into oversteer first compared to understeer.
However, for road driving a mk2 TT with a map is seriously hard to debate for value and fun!
Ah you see 2:40 the Audi TT brings out the idiot in a driver, with all the swearing and hand gestures. Ever thought about being a hairdresser? Steering is for the limp wristed, all image and gadgets. You may need those roll-over bars.
I genuinely can't tell if this is all a giant insult or not. Either way, hope you enjoyed the video hahaha
Mx5 is a ladies car, only thing is it’s Rwd and the TT is fwd
It's the most competitively raced car on the planet and most racing drivers are men, so it's not really a ladies car as such.
I think it's a 90s stereotype that's mostly died out that convertibles are for women. SLK, TT, Boxster, MX-5 etc all used to have that reputation but it seems to have died out mostly now
Quite uninformed statement Mazda MX-5 has the highest percentile of male owners of all cars. I've owned three of them one was raced. If you want to have fun in a car you better get yourself in an MX5 and man up a little bit hahaha
An Audi TT is nothing more than a gussied up VW Beetle!🤮 Whereas a Miata is all original!
I can't remember the last time I heard 'gussied' and that alone really made me chuckle!
TT looks crap.
I'll let him know
mx5 is muuuuch cheaper than the TT and reliable. Easy choice
For me personally, I'd pick the MX-5 pretty much every time! Now that I've sold it and lived with more practical cars again it would have to be a second car for me to be the MX-5 again, so I do understand why people wanting one car would pick the practical TT. It just lacks driving soul to me! Letalone the problems haha!