@@lewisdavis1491 I have a 2020 RF and it does not feel underpowered in my opinion. I traded in a 2011 Camaro LT RS and honestly the Miata feels a tad bit faster. It’s only got 181hp but weighs >2500lbs so the power feels pretty strong for such a small car
@@lewisdavis1491 I've got a 2020 MX-5 RF. I traded a 400hp Mustang GT. The MX-5 is so much fun. Not nearly as fast in a straight line, but it feels like a lively go-kart on the road, and being so low to the ground and a convertible, it feels like you're flying. MX-5 is my favorite car I've owned.
@@MadcapActivityDomain I totally agree. Coming from a 2008 Mazdaspeed 3, it does seem a bit underpowered, guess I miss the 280 ft lbs of torque and 263 horsepower of the speed. However, this is by far the most fun I've ever had in a car and I'm getting 40+ MPG on my commute.
I watched a lot of YT Video reviews of this car way back in July August last year, needed a new car and just went ahead and ordered one. I had to order it because here in New Zealand there were no RF's in Machine grey with the 6s manual. Ordered in September just in time for the next batch build in Japan, it was built on the 7th of December and I picked it up on the 15th of January. I've only just passed 1000km on the clock and OMG just love it to bits, it's even better than I imagined and it was only imagined because there were none here to even test drive ahead of time. After watching this review and reading many of the comments below, I was smiling the whole time because instead of having expectations I can now relate. Happy motoring ppl...
I live in the US and have a 2019 soft top Club edition. It has the Brembo/BBS/Recaro package which is everything on your wish list. It’s fantastic and has over 32k miles with zero issues.
John, give your mum's sunglasses back! Seriously though, great review. Probably the best I've seen in terms of describing how it feels to drive. Very informative and entertaining.
I spy a spot of dry mouth and a furtive glance in the rear vis, Johnno? You didn't even pause, ever the consummate professional. Love your work Bud. In my experience (ND for five years) the little MX is not a cop magnet unless you're really having a lend. I haven't fallen foul of the law yet, (touch wood) but my spirited drives are few and well planned.
The MX5 (ND) roadster is one of the most agile and most fun cars to drive ... at ANY price! ...speaking from a big experience with various sports cars up to € 250.000.-
After seeing this and other videos, I bought this car! Having mods and ppf full wrap installed now: Greddy axel back exhaust, spoiler, aluminum pedals, and a few other conveniences. Love the driving experience! This vehicle is my daily driver, replaces my 1993 Honda del Sol. After almost 30 years driving my wonderful Honda, time for me to play with a Miata.
Congratulations on a well articulated presentation, many other presenters could learn a lot by watching you, as some are really dreadful, even the U.K. ones. One I watched earlier in fact spent most of his presentation talking about his dog and the sound of the car exhaust! As an owner myself, a very salient point you made was the restricted space inside for taller drivers, especially when compared to the T86. To anyone comparing the two cars as 'daily drivers' this is an important factor separating two really excellent sports cars. Cheers, Mal
I have a 2011 NC which I bought from new and the car is still such a joy to drive after 121,000 miles. Fits like a glove and Mazda's term for the experience is 'Horse and Rider as One' (in Japanese) and for sure the car feels like it's alive when on the back roads. When I test drove the ND I was somewhat disappointed. The steering felt light (I think it's all electronic) and the vehicle seemed to ride too softly: less engagement with the road. Also as far as practicality there is probably about half the storage space than the NC so weekends away would be more challenging. So, I'm passing on the ND, all the time my NC is still running and fun to drive!
Great classic RWD sports car. Don't knock one of these (any series) until you've blasted it through the twisties. Not super grunty but no classic sports car is really. I love a paddle auto but the MX5 would be the exception. They hold their value rather well from what I've noticed.
I purchased my mx5 in December 2020, and i love my new toy. She sticks to the road especially on the highway and handles the corners so well. Also great on fuel consumption for a 2ltr. Quick on the pickup. I feel so confident on the road
Stiffer suspension will ruin the ride quality on road. What may be a good modification for trak is usually ruinous for road use. I would advise road users to keep the car is it comes from the factory.
Its the only car still sold today, that comes anywhere near recreating the joy and excitement of 1970s Sports Cars sold in the Uk. The MG Midget, Triumph Spitfire, MGB, all underpowered vehicles, with sublime handling. The next MX5 ME has to retain a petrol engine, as having an all electric drivetrain will destroy the magical driving experience and involvement. Its the very reason i bought a new 2021 MX5 1.5L
I have the ND2 roadster with the club trim which includes Recaro seats, Bilstein dampers and strut brace, and it's definitely the way to go for active driving. It fixes pretty much all the handling issues you mentioned. About the Brembo breaks and lighter rims I'm not sure it's worth the extra cash for road use, but probably for the track.
I would go with the soft top, looks nice with roof down and thats how I would drive it when I do, even if raining if you go fast enough its not so bad lol
I prefer the looks of the roadster. The RF isn’t as attractive to my eyes. I drove the original model from Winton Raceway to Melbourne back in the day and it was a joy to drive. As you said, John, like a favourite pair of shoes… it felt like you were part of it… lovely.
Bid difference between MX5 and 86/BRZ is the - admittedly small - back seats. Can squeeze a kid back there and fold the seats down for a pretty good amount of storage (4 tires/wheels!) in the BRZ......
I absolutely love the Miata's but the RF model just looks awkward. They should have done a full retractable hardtop like the NC model, and not an odd looking T-Top style. That high revving engine has got to be great.
86/BRZ needs RF preferably or at least a sunroof. RF looks SOOOOO much better than the soft top version - looks count in a sports car without much power. Miata RF is the one to get - also better in rain/snow and harder to get into to steal stuff. So a bit of security. I'd say the biggest competitor is actually the Kia Stinger - In Canada, for the same price as the top of the line Miata RF you get the AWD Twin Turbo V6 (365hp) with a liftback four seats and very good handling - and back seats and a sunroof and a longer warranty and the reviewer here would have some headroom. And the Kia can beat a mommy mobile Toyota Camry - something the Miata can't do. But I like the Miata origami roof, cute looks, and bombproof reliability, and excellent gas mileage.
A used example then? Quite a few are owned by the mature age bracket as they're the only ones who can afford a two seater "empty nester" conveyance. Mazda acknowledges this by fitting compliant suspension (for a sporting vehicle). Find a one (golden or blue rinse) owner with light usage (defs no track outings!)
$54,000 for a Mazda MX-5?! Huh? That’s about $41,000 USD, which is quite a hefty price considering that the top end model in the U.S, sell for about $36,000. Any way I’ve owned my 2008 Mazda MX-5 Grand Touring PRHT, since new, for over 13 years and it has been proven to be very reliable. If I ever buy another MX-5 though, it would be a roadster. When the mechanical roof broke down in my car I had to pay over 2,000 USD. Plus, I was without a car for three weeks. Soft top roofs also break down but at least they’re easier less expensive to fix compared to the mechanical ones.
If you really want to save money, and you are a sports car purist who does not need or want automatic windshield wipers, consider the base model Sport. With a stock paint job (black is sensational) and canvas roof and six-speed close-ratio transmission, both manually operated, you'll be driving the lightest, most "pur sang" sports car on the market. its cloth seats are more comfortable than the optional leather ones. And, the Sport had the same upgraded power train as found in this GT.
Test drove this and then the 86 (frs here), took the FRS home. Miata was nice but too soft, too much body roll around corners. Felt like a sports car with a sedan suspension. FRS has zero body roll, feels much more sharp.
I am seriously thinking of a MX5 for a weekender fun car. Watched many reviews and am leaning towards a private seller ND roadster (or I think they are just called convertible in that model). The pricing of the new models are just putting them out of my reach by many thousands of dollars and I think that is Mazda is not careful, they may price the car out of the market.
Bought a 2019 ND2 roadster with club trim last year before the price increase. If you can find a used one for a reasonable price just buy it, it's worth every penny!
Liked the review. I think the 86 and MX-5 are for different markets. The MX-5 is only an open top car in either variant . If open top driving doesn’t appeal then go for the more spacious/practical 86. I’m an ND MX-5 owner and a coupe was never on my shopping list. I like the uncompromising open top experience. As for the ‘light and flimsy boot (trunk) lid’, it’s made of aluminium, (or aluminium) it’s light and strong as are quite a few panels. This fact is often ignored by reviewers.
Yep, it truly is. You can give it the herbs more of the time(compared to the 2L). It's a shame (but understandable given the sales mix) that Mazda no longer import a GT spec in 1.5L. Your stuck with cloth and manual air. Boo. Guess I'll just have to hang on to mine then.
I absolutely love the car but it's definitely not a good value. It's very niche and specific. However, we don't have any choices at all for a car like this. The next jump up is at least twice as expensive for the Porsche 718, BMW Z4 or Alfa 4C
Good review, even considering the language difference. :) I have a 2020 RF Club (in USA) and I opted for the cloth seats over leather. I think that was a good choice.
Just here to check out the colour! So far I'm thinking Soul Red, Machine Grey, Eternal Blue then Polymetal. I'm trying to work out what the look like on a day to day basis when they're not all sparkling, polished and detailed in the glistening sun though. The red loses a lot of it's appeal then. Most of them do though. I think the deep blue crystal is just going to look a very dark navy to almost black most of the time even though it's immense clean and in the sun.
I have a Pearl White GT. It's classic, with the white over black trim with gun metal grey alloys. White also makes it look more substantial - very happy with the Pearl White.
We all know what the MX-5 is as its been around for many years, so critiquing it by using the word “practical” is nonsensical…the size of the car speaks for itself. As a side note, anyone that is looking to buy an MX, get the Recaro seats if you can afford them. They are very comfortable and this comes from someone in their 50’s with a bad back.
I love driving my friend's Miata RF, the one and only complaint I have about the car is that the analog speedometer is too small and the numbers are too squished together. Makes it hard to read. I really wish they gave us a digital speedometer in the instrument cluster digital display.
I have the NC and being tall it's roomy and feels like there there is alot of space. You seem a tall lad too, how was space inside? Did you feel cramped at all?
Chasing Cars team: Keen to know when the review for the GT RS is going to come out. I'm a once-a-year track guy (if even that) and I'm looking for something move involving than my 7.5R Wolfsburg Edition. My concern with the RS is that the stiff suspension with the Bilstein dampers might not be very forgiving for our shitty roads (I live in Melb). Your thoughts on this?
@@jasonc3630 I test drove the RS. Beautiful, beautiful vehicle; but I could feel every bump on the road. I'd have been happy to live with it, but the wife wasn't v happy; so I had to compromise. I placed an order for the RF GT (non-RS), which should get delivered sometime next month...
@@JanMichaelFranklin sorry my bad i switched it up. With this cleared up, yeah you're right on this. What is the point of the 86 if the mx-5 "true-coupe" exists ?
Step 1) Buy the club trim in a ND2 (2019+) Step 2) Re-flash ECU from Fab9Tuning (fab9tuning.com/versatuner-n1-tune-mx-5-nd1-nd2/) Step 3) replace the suspension with Ohlins DFV (www.miataspeed.com/collections/handling/nd) Step 4) Don't touch it again, and enjoy it! (Don't add a damn turbo to it, you fool)
Too small for me and most large americans. The 86 actually fits great for all sizes. The 2nd gen will definitely be a good buy with the 2.4 and same weight.
why is it that only tall people make miata videos where they talk about the downsides? Ow and ive never heard of people wanting to buy an automatic miata... wtf
I’m 6’1”, 90 kg (200 lbs) and have daily driven an NA, NB, NC1, NC2, and now 2020 GT RF. Never had any thoughts about the NAs - NC2 being too small. The NCs, especially, can easily accommodate people considerably taller and heavier. The NDs are noticeably “tighter.” It feels snug for me, but in a way I prefer to my NCs. In the NCs, I actually add padding on either side of my knees to make it easier to brace myself while cornering when vigorously driving. No need to do that in the ND! 😆 I have enough headroom to wear a helmet, but if my legs were any longer, I might replace the seat bracket. My best guess, anyone my size or smaller will find a position that works well for them. Anyone bigger, by height or weight, should check it out carefully first. Taller folks can fairly cheaply and easily replace the seat bracket to gain some room.
I have both take the 86 if you can only have 1 car and take the miata if you are looking for a second car, rag top if you have a garage and if not get the hardtop
Thank you for very good Informations about the car. This is my Dreamcar, but it is very expensive in Norway, like all cars are, sorry to say !!!, but I still hope.........
Nice classis roadster for open top sunday morning drive But my money i30 N any day much prefer serious or hard driving most of time 😆 more rewarding no need to spend time or money to make a true drivers car to attack corners vs mr or ms mellow sunday cruise type of sports car. It's a nice car (had one loved it) but only worth getting used and a little modification money required even for the road ✌😊 This brand new car got nicer interior btw but older gen got nicer stock exhaust note save a few bucks for nice buckets 😊
@@MrBenHaynes i wouldn't sell mine if i didn't loose that job back then. Love the car a used silver NB manual no a/c enjoy driving it everyday until i start pushing it. Way too much body movement then a lightweight sports car should.. so i installed a set of Tein street tune coilover and it's wonderful oh along with Eibach sway bars.. and a nice quality Japanese brand forgot the name "tower bar" and this transform the car completely. Comfortable ride yet super tight for aggressive driving 😊 Later got lightweight 15x7" rims, very nice quality stainless headers (jackson racing? Don't remember) K&N replacement performance filter.. and another tie bar behind the seats this firms up the chassis completely but... makes the ride bit stiff for the road. If i still have the car, would definitely go for slotted rotos sport pads and a set of PZero all season plus. I had those on my other car and loved it! Comfortable and quiet ride yet grip like performance summer tires but of cos will last longer and possibly better in the rain. But wonder if they come in 15"? But the should be plenty high performance all seasons to choose from.. then would upgrade the camshaft for stronger mid range thats the plan. It will be an ongoing project. But again if i didn't loose my job i wouldn't sell it. It's a really special car to enjoy. Just that the new one is so expensive brand new would rather go for smthg more focus more high tech.. and mostly those Hyundai N cars are a bargain imo it's by Albert Biermann! Could never afford an M car... N it's reachable and so much more practical at same time and without German car reliability issues as well a win-win 😁
Not that I could afford the nd but much prefer my 2012 nc in my opinion it's more roomy and comfortable but just as much fun and the retractable hard top I have is again better looking and rear vision much better still a gr8 looking fun car
@@PoeticInsanity think what you want I think it's the best looking as I said more muscular and comfortable and just as much fun not driven the na but don't like the pop up headlights drove nb and nd and that's my opinion
I have a 2019 gt rf with the gt package that adds the dif -and club suspension. I sold my 2010 retractable hardtop but still not sure which care I like better . The nc retractable hardtop is a much better answer as the whole top disappears. I think the rf looks way better but not one complaint on the nc .
@@ikilledthemoon I HONESTLY don't know why the hardtop exists. Goes against the ethos of MX-5 with extra weight, complexity, cost and a neutered experience!
@@MrBenHaynes Some people just like a quieter cabin that’s more resistant to leaking. Not only that, softtops require maintenance and eventually need replacing. Additionally, the hardtop is more secure from a theft standpoint. Also, there are people like me who love the car and hate convertibles. I’d likely never drive this car with the top down so the hardtop becomes a great option. I do wish the top retracted completely like the NC though.
54k for a miata! LOL!!! Does it already come with an LS V8? At that price it should! I like miata's and want one in a few years, but 54k for a 2L NA... sorry but no, hell no actually. Mayyyybe if it was something more like the Honda F20c... still would be a no for me, but I'd at least get it.
Third, Podium! But I'm biased, Mazda MX-5 is overpriced for what Mazda give you and the Toyota 86 is overwhelmed by the superior torque-to-weight (..well of the base 2L conv!) of the little mighty mazda!
@@moart87 Because there are plenty of bad coilovers. Updating springs, shocks, or coilovers could improve the car, but could also make it worse. The great thing about this review was we got to see it on typical Aussie lumpy roads, showing the benefit of compliance. Bad or good is subjective, the problem may be springs, damping, rebound, or overall stiffness in the linkages or bushings. The answer isn't clear, but the problem is clear, the car could do with some improvements to ride and/or handling.
@@danielthomas5486 In what is better? Suspension and behaviour in curves: 86 better Performance : 86 better Space for a daily use : 86 better Centre of gravity - 86 better Steering wheel : 86 better Differential : 86 Better. Insurance cost : 86 better. Stick shift : 86 better Seat position : 86 better Besides the converible, what is better in the Mazda?
@@GastonMaqueda the 86 is one ugly car for starters what was Toyota thinking??and 4 seats and the 5 is faster in 181 hp version,and the 5 is an icon the Toyota well it's a Toyota....peace
@@danielthomas5486 You didn't answer any of my questions? Just. the car is ugly (For you) Wich 5 doors is faster? Faster doesn't means better That is the typical mistake of people who don't understand absolutely nothing about cars and driving and spend more time in interner reading statics than behind a wheel of a real car. I called them " The Dominic Toretto Generation"
I much prefer the 86/BRZ to the the MX5. The flat 4 motor gives a more responsive steering response with the lower centre of gravity and weight more centred. It makes the 86 more dynamically balanced all round for me.
MX-5s have been my daily drivers since 1990. Owned 4 since new, then each graduates from daily drivers to track. I’ve always had a second car, but the Miata always gets the most driven. Whenever I purchase a new daily driver, I look at alternatives, even much more expensive ones, but I have, so far, always stayed with Miatas. Biggest reason that it’s a great daily driver? It makes EVERY day I drive one a better day. Even if I just go back and forth to work. I have owned many, many cars and, for me, very, very few can do that. For me they have all been very reliable, cheap to operate, cheap to modify, cheap to repair. Maybe not an obvious choice to be a daily driver, but if you try it, I bet you’ll wonder why it wasn’t obvious.
Great idea - Mazda - ru listening - maybe this will be Mazda's final parting act for the MX-5, the MX-5T. Perhaps it would destroy the character of the car? Mazda - ru listening - do a deal with Edelbrock and do a final version with an Edelbrock Supercharger and call it the MX-5S. Now that would be something, with the Bilstein Shocks, Brembo Brakes and some lovely Recaro's. Sign here, press hard, 3 copies - sold!
Angle wasn't the best for the in-car - we know. Will be rectified next time we're in an MX-5...
I test drove her for time pass and she came home with me on the same day, and is with me for 2 years now.
Does it feel underpowered?
@@lewisdavis1491 I have a 2020 RF and it does not feel underpowered in my opinion. I traded in a 2011 Camaro LT RS and honestly the Miata feels a tad bit faster. It’s only got 181hp but weighs >2500lbs so the power feels pretty strong for such a small car
@@lewisdavis1491 I've got a 2020 MX-5 RF. I traded a 400hp Mustang GT. The MX-5 is so much fun. Not nearly as fast in a straight line, but it feels like a lively go-kart on the road, and being so low to the ground and a convertible, it feels like you're flying. MX-5 is my favorite car I've owned.
@M1ATA56 Heavy cars with lots of power are impressive in an way, but light cars feel like they are part of you;, rather than an operator
@@MadcapActivityDomain I totally agree. Coming from a 2008 Mazdaspeed 3, it does seem a bit underpowered, guess I miss the 280 ft lbs of torque and 263 horsepower of the speed. However, this is by far the most fun I've ever had in a car and I'm getting 40+ MPG on my commute.
I watched a lot of YT Video reviews of this car way back in July August last year, needed a new car and just went ahead and ordered one. I had to order it because here in New Zealand there were no RF's in Machine grey with the 6s manual. Ordered in September just in time for the next batch build in Japan, it was built on the 7th of December and I picked it up on the 15th of January. I've only just passed 1000km on the clock and OMG just love it to bits, it's even better than I imagined and it was only imagined because there were none here to even test drive ahead of time.
After watching this review and reading many of the comments below, I was smiling the whole time because instead of having expectations I can now relate. Happy motoring ppl...
I knew it was coming home with me before I even got to the first stop sign!!! ❤️
I live in the US and have a 2019 soft top Club edition. It has the Brembo/BBS/Recaro package which is everything on your wish list. It’s fantastic and has over 32k miles with zero issues.
John, give your mum's sunglasses back! Seriously though, great review. Probably the best I've seen in terms of describing how it feels to drive. Very informative and entertaining.
Harsh, but fair Swanee (how I love you, how I love you)
2:25 heart rate increases massively 😂
We're making a poster of this for our office -Tom
I spent the next couple of minutes looking through the back window...
I spy a spot of dry mouth and a furtive glance in the rear vis, Johnno?
You didn't even pause, ever the consummate professional. Love your work Bud.
In my experience (ND for five years) the little MX is not a cop magnet unless you're really having a lend.
I haven't fallen foul of the law yet, (touch wood) but my spirited drives are few and well planned.
The MX5 (ND) roadster is one of the most agile and most fun cars to drive ... at ANY price! ...speaking from a big experience with various sports cars up to € 250.000.-
Wow. 250000???? Sounds cool
Still the best value analog sports car you can buy today IMO Nice review
There are digital versions???
@@larjkok1184 he means it feels good, and it's available in manual
Nissan 370z nismo
After seeing this and other videos, I bought this car! Having mods and ppf full wrap installed now: Greddy axel back exhaust, spoiler, aluminum pedals, and a few other conveniences. Love the driving experience! This vehicle is my daily driver, replaces my 1993 Honda del Sol. After almost 30 years driving my wonderful Honda, time for me to play with a Miata.
Congratulations on a well articulated presentation, many other presenters could learn a lot by watching you, as
some are really dreadful, even the U.K. ones. One I watched earlier in fact spent most of his presentation talking about
his dog and the sound of the car exhaust!
As an owner myself, a very salient point you made was the restricted space inside for taller drivers, especially when compared
to the T86. To anyone comparing the two cars as 'daily drivers' this is an important factor separating two really excellent
sports cars.
Cheers, Mal
I have a 2011 NC which I bought from new and the car is still such a joy to drive after 121,000 miles. Fits like a glove and Mazda's term for the experience is 'Horse and Rider as One' (in Japanese) and for sure the car feels like it's alive when on the back roads. When I test drove the ND I was somewhat disappointed. The steering felt light (I think it's all electronic) and the vehicle seemed to ride too softly: less engagement with the road. Also as far as practicality there is probably about half the storage space than the NC so weekends away would be more challenging. So, I'm passing on the ND, all the time my NC is still running and fun to drive!
Great classic RWD sports car. Don't knock one of these (any series) until you've blasted it through the twisties.
Not super grunty but no classic sports car is really. I love a paddle auto but the MX5 would be the exception.
They hold their value rather well from what I've noticed.
As a 2019 ND2 owner why am I watching this😆😆😆
I purchased my mx5 in December 2020, and i love my new toy. She sticks to the road especially on the highway and handles the corners so well. Also great on fuel consumption for a 2ltr. Quick on the pickup. I feel so confident on the road
Glad you're enjoying the car!
Stiffer suspension will ruin the ride quality on road. What may be a good modification for trak is usually ruinous for road use. I would advise road users to keep the car is it comes from the factory.
Its the only car still sold today, that comes anywhere near recreating the joy and excitement of 1970s Sports Cars sold in the Uk.
The MG Midget, Triumph Spitfire, MGB, all underpowered vehicles, with sublime handling.
The next MX5 ME has to retain a petrol engine, as having an all electric drivetrain will destroy the magical driving experience and involvement.
Its the very reason i bought a new 2021 MX5 1.5L
I have the ND2 roadster with the club trim which includes Recaro seats, Bilstein dampers and strut brace, and it's definitely the way to go for active driving. It fixes pretty much all the handling issues you mentioned. About the Brembo breaks and lighter rims I'm not sure it's worth the extra cash for road use, but probably for the track.
I would go with the soft top, looks nice with roof down and thats how I would drive it when I do, even if raining if you go fast enough its not so bad lol
I prefer the looks of the roadster. The RF isn’t as attractive to my eyes. I drove the original model from Winton Raceway to Melbourne back in the day and it was a joy to drive. As you said, John, like a favourite pair of shoes… it felt like you were part of it… lovely.
i was like why is it so expensive , then i remembered australian dollars.
same lol them kangaroo dollahs
This car goes for 35,000 for the grand touring model ( top of line model )
@@Unchainedmaple888 And them koala cents 😅
bro this is cheap, but it is small
Same 😂
I agree with those who think it's too expensive. However, a 2 or 3 years old used ones are very well priced in Aus. It's worth checking out.
Maybe once COVID tax has worn off :( I was very keen on an ND until the 2020 used car price hikes hit and Mazda axed the lower trim level 2.0Ls
@@SupremeMoFo Hardly anyone bought base trim 2.0 or either of the 1.5L versions, but Mazda kept the base 1.5L as a price opener.
Damn this review is very good. Very down to earth
Bid difference between MX5 and 86/BRZ is the - admittedly small - back seats. Can squeeze a kid back there and fold the seats down for a pretty good amount of storage (4 tires/wheels!) in the BRZ......
I love these small sport cars. Realistic useable power and 1/5 the price to carve up a twisty road.
I absolutely love the Miata's but the RF model just looks awkward. They should have done a full retractable hardtop like the NC model, and not an odd looking T-Top style. That high revving engine has got to be great.
Excellent review. Accurate, thoughtful and professional.
That's the way a car review should be made: 80% about the car driving etc. I don't miss finding out how many cup holders the backseat has...
86/BRZ needs RF preferably or at least a sunroof. RF looks SOOOOO much better than the soft top version - looks count in a sports car without much power. Miata RF is the one to get - also better in rain/snow and harder to get into to steal stuff. So a bit of security. I'd say the biggest competitor is actually the Kia Stinger - In Canada, for the same price as the top of the line Miata RF you get the AWD Twin Turbo V6 (365hp) with a liftback four seats and very good handling - and back seats and a sunroof and a longer warranty and the reviewer here would have some headroom. And the Kia can beat a mommy mobile Toyota Camry - something the Miata can't do. But I like the Miata origami roof, cute looks, and bombproof reliability, and excellent gas mileage.
I would seriously consider MX5 ragtop. But the price is outrageous. More especially in NZ. Toyota 86 has the same problem.
A used example then?
Quite a few are owned by the mature age bracket as they're the only ones who can afford a two seater "empty nester" conveyance.
Mazda acknowledges this by fitting compliant suspension (for a sporting vehicle).
Find a one (golden or blue rinse) owner with light usage (defs no track outings!)
$54,000 for a Mazda MX-5?! Huh? That’s about $41,000 USD, which is quite a hefty price considering that the top end model in the U.S, sell for about $36,000. Any way I’ve owned my 2008 Mazda MX-5 Grand Touring PRHT, since new, for over 13 years and it has been proven to be very reliable. If I ever buy another MX-5 though, it would be a roadster. When the mechanical roof broke down in my car I had to pay over 2,000 USD. Plus, I was without a car for three weeks. Soft top roofs also break down but at least they’re easier less expensive to fix compared to the mechanical ones.
If you really want to save money, and you are a sports car purist who does not need or want automatic windshield wipers, consider the base model Sport. With a stock paint job (black is sensational) and canvas roof and six-speed close-ratio transmission, both manually operated, you'll be driving the lightest, most "pur sang" sports car on the market. its cloth seats are more comfortable than the optional leather ones. And, the Sport had the same upgraded power train as found in this GT.
Test drove this and then the 86 (frs here), took the FRS home. Miata was nice but too soft, too much body roll around corners. Felt like a sports car with a sedan suspension. FRS has zero body roll, feels much more sharp.
Interesting points. What year frs? Which felt faster?
I’d have the Roadster GT for lightness and the 2.0L engine. Going to be comparing this to the new GR86 when it gets to AUS.
I am seriously thinking of a MX5 for a weekender fun car. Watched many reviews and am leaning towards a private seller ND roadster (or I think they are just called convertible in that model). The pricing of the new models are just putting them out of my reach by many thousands of dollars and I think that is Mazda is not careful, they may price the car out of the market.
Fantastic car for a weekender
Bought a 2019 ND2 roadster with club trim last year before the price increase. If you can find a used one for a reasonable price just buy it, it's worth every penny!
You have a career ahead of you young man. Well presented !.
No one mentions the storage compartment behind the passenger seat, is it not in the 2021?
Hey John, appreciate your reviews. Keep it up.
U can tell you were fanging it and luckily passed the police coming out of a sharp corner...😊
Liked the review. I think the 86 and MX-5 are for different markets. The MX-5 is only an open top car in either variant . If open top driving doesn’t appeal then go for the more spacious/practical 86. I’m an ND MX-5 owner and a coupe was never on my shopping list. I like the uncompromising open top experience. As for the ‘light and flimsy boot (trunk) lid’, it’s made of aluminium, (or aluminium) it’s light and strong as are quite a few panels. This fact is often ignored by reviewers.
Base 1.5 soft top would be my choice I think as closest to original NA ethos imho
Yep, it truly is. You can give it the herbs more of the time(compared to the 2L).
It's a shame (but understandable given the sales mix) that Mazda no longer import a GT spec in 1.5L.
Your stuck with cloth and manual air. Boo. Guess I'll just have to hang on to mine then.
Yup,drove both, and the 1.5 was the more fun car...almost as good as my slightly modded 91 ...the 1.5 with boost would be my choice...
The gulp! Classic!
😂
I absolutely love the car but it's definitely not a good value. It's very niche and specific. However, we don't have any choices at all for a car like this. The next jump up is at least twice as expensive for the Porsche 718, BMW Z4 or Alfa 4C
Good review, even considering the language difference. :)
I have a 2020 RF Club (in USA) and I opted for the cloth seats over leather. I think that was a good choice.
Just here to check out the colour! So far I'm thinking Soul Red, Machine Grey, Eternal Blue then Polymetal. I'm trying to work out what the look like on a day to day basis when they're not all sparkling, polished and detailed in the glistening sun though. The red loses a lot of it's appeal then. Most of them do though. I think the deep blue crystal is just going to look a very dark navy to almost black most of the time even though it's immense clean and in the sun.
I have a Pearl White GT. It's classic, with the white over black trim with gun metal grey alloys. White also makes it look more substantial - very happy with the Pearl White.
Nice review. The base car doesn't come with an LSD. For me the best spec for this car is the Club with the Brembo/BBS/Recaro Package.
The miata 2021 is my favorite car.
We all know what the MX-5 is as its been around for many years, so critiquing it by using the word “practical” is nonsensical…the size of the car speaks for itself. As a side note, anyone that is looking to buy an MX, get the Recaro seats if you can afford them. They are very comfortable and this comes from someone in their 50’s with a bad back.
Bought a 2020 mx5 rf in june.....great car
I love driving my friend's Miata RF, the one and only complaint I have about the car is that the analog speedometer is too small and the numbers are too squished together. Makes it hard to read. I really wish they gave us a digital speedometer in the instrument cluster digital display.
Agree - they could ditch the useless gear indicator (I know what gear I'm in!) and put a digital speed read out there instead.
I have the NC and being tall it's roomy and feels like there there is alot of space. You seem a tall lad too, how was space inside? Did you feel cramped at all?
Chasing Cars team: Keen to know when the review for the GT RS is going to come out. I'm a once-a-year track guy (if even that) and I'm looking for something move involving than my 7.5R Wolfsburg Edition. My concern with the RS is that the stiff suspension with the Bilstein dampers might not be very forgiving for our shitty roads (I live in Melb). Your thoughts on this?
Keen to see a response to your question, I’m also considering an RS (Melbourne)
@@jasonc3630 I test drove the RS. Beautiful, beautiful vehicle; but I could feel every bump on the road. I'd have been happy to live with it, but the wife wasn't v happy; so I had to compromise. I placed an order for the RF GT (non-RS), which should get delivered sometime next month...
'I'm not a fan so I'm not biased' 😂
If Mazda made a true coupe version of the MX-5 the 86 would've been discontinued.😂
The mx-5 is a true coupe it's just that the RF has a hard top. The standard ND model has a soft top
@@twistedpivoter2695 A coupe is a fixed hard top, and yes, it does make a difference.
@@JanMichaelFranklin sorry my bad i switched it up. With this cleared up, yeah you're right on this. What is the point of the 86 if the mx-5 "true-coupe" exists ?
@@twistedpivoter2695 The 86 still has back seats. I'm sure it would still find buyers. An MX-5 coupe would definitely steal a bunch though.
Step 1) Buy the club trim in a ND2 (2019+) Step 2) Re-flash ECU from Fab9Tuning (fab9tuning.com/versatuner-n1-tune-mx-5-nd1-nd2/) Step 3) replace the suspension with Ohlins DFV (www.miataspeed.com/collections/handling/nd) Step 4) Don't touch it again, and enjoy it! (Don't add a damn turbo to it, you fool)
Question does the shift pattern for manual transmission stay the same in a. Right hand or Left hand drive vehicle?
It's exactly the same no matter what side
@@angelo747 In the Norther Hemisphere the gear changes are clockwise and in the Southern Hemisphere, they are anti-clockwise - LOL
Too small for me and most large americans. The 86 actually fits great for all sizes. The 2nd gen will definitely be a good buy with the 2.4 and same weight.
why is it that only tall people make miata videos where they talk about the downsides? Ow and ive never heard of people wanting to buy an automatic miata... wtf
At 6’2 are you comfortable in there?
I'm 6 foot even, and I fit almost perfectly in my 2018 MX-5 ND club, but it does feel small compared to everything else I've driven (including BRZ).
@@judge831 is it an everyday driver or a toy?
I’m 6’1”, 90 kg (200 lbs) and have daily driven an NA, NB, NC1, NC2, and now 2020 GT RF. Never had any thoughts about the NAs - NC2 being too small. The NCs, especially, can easily accommodate people considerably taller and heavier.
The NDs are noticeably “tighter.” It feels snug for me, but in a way I prefer to my NCs. In the NCs, I actually add padding on either side of my knees to make it easier to brace myself while cornering when vigorously driving. No need to do that in the ND! 😆
I have enough headroom to wear a helmet, but if my legs were any longer, I might replace the seat bracket.
My best guess, anyone my size or smaller will find a position that works well for them. Anyone bigger, by height or weight, should check it out carefully first.
Taller folks can fairly cheaply and easily replace the seat bracket to gain some room.
@@toddgersh wdym by toy
I have both take the 86 if you can only have 1 car and take the miata if you are looking for a second car, rag top if you have a garage and if not get the hardtop
of course its better than a 86, is it comparable to the lotus elise? old s2000?
Is this review done in Australia?
Yes - In the southern Hemisphere.
Thank you for very good Informations about the car. This is my Dreamcar, but it is very expensive in Norway, like all cars are, sorry to say !!!, but I still hope.........
This is sick man! 🙌🏽
No offense I'm a stroke and cardiac arrest survivor and use a cane for balance when I'm outside walking around and can't drive anymore
Gutted for you mate, 😪
@@danielthomas5486 I'm sorry what?
@@vassa1972 it means I have sympathy for you, I'm from new Zealand it's one of our sayings...peace
@@danielthomas5486 thanks Mr Thomas I appreciate that. As Spock from the original star trek would say "live long and prosper"
you look like that skinny cop that arrests Badger in Breaking Bad lol
It looks so happy
Here in the states it's not worth the 10,000 extra dollars over the cost of the Fiesta ST.
alot of american dudes not aware of the existence of the australian dollar😆
Drove both, but the gt86 is a better car.
My Dream is car Mazda6 but I dont have enough money yet I only can watch your post temporarily.😭
I managed to fit a MTB in my 2016mx5. Granted it was in the passenger seat with the roof down😂
Everybody's dream car.
REVIEW THE 2021 SUBARU OUTBACK TOURING!
Bose stereo is overrated. Try Mark Levinson in a Lexus.
Agree Bose are rubbish
Such a nice car but too small. I would have bought one if i could fit, i had an NC but this ND is too small
They made it smaller because it weighs at least 100kg less, which shows a lot of benefits to this car's performance.
@@smilepermile8165 i realise that but it is still too small for a slightly larger than average male.
@@odinikita4821 Well there's the option of fitting lightweight aftermarket seats and lower seat rails
Yeah 6'0 max. Im 6'2 so got a 370 instead lol. Im looking at the Fiat 124 next
On my 5th mx5 love them
Nice classis roadster for open top sunday morning drive
But my money i30 N any day much prefer serious or hard driving most of time 😆 more rewarding no need to spend time or money to make a true drivers car to attack corners vs mr or ms mellow sunday cruise type of sports car. It's a nice car (had one loved it) but only worth getting used and a little modification money required even for the road ✌😊
This brand new car got nicer interior btw but older gen got nicer stock exhaust note save a few bucks for nice buckets 😊
I keep thinking I'll trade the mx5 on a Hyundai i20 N when it lobs, but if I'm honest, the MX5 suits my driving style more often than the i20 N.
@@MrBenHaynes i wouldn't sell mine if i didn't loose that job back then. Love the car a used silver NB manual no a/c enjoy driving it everyday until i start pushing it. Way too much body movement then a lightweight sports car should.. so i installed a set of Tein street tune coilover and it's wonderful oh along with Eibach sway bars.. and a nice quality Japanese brand forgot the name "tower bar" and this transform the car completely. Comfortable ride yet super tight for aggressive driving 😊
Later got lightweight 15x7" rims, very nice quality stainless headers (jackson racing? Don't remember) K&N replacement performance filter.. and another tie bar behind the seats this firms up the chassis completely but... makes the ride bit stiff for the road. If i still have the car, would definitely go for slotted rotos sport pads and a set of PZero all season plus. I had those on my other car and loved it! Comfortable and quiet ride yet grip like performance summer tires but of cos will last longer and possibly better in the rain. But wonder if they come in 15"? But the should be plenty high performance all seasons to choose from.. then would upgrade the camshaft for stronger mid range thats the plan. It will be an ongoing project. But again if i didn't loose my job i wouldn't sell it. It's a really special car to enjoy. Just that the new one is so expensive brand new would rather go for smthg more focus more high tech.. and mostly those Hyundai N cars are a bargain imo it's by Albert Biermann!
Could never afford an M car... N it's reachable and so much more practical at same time and without German car reliability issues as well a win-win 😁
Wtf that roof is sick! You literally have to take off the roof on the new corvette and put it in the trunk HAHAHAHAHA
Shame the electric steering doesn't have much feedback or communication with the driver.
Useful clarification: the price is stated in AUD!!
Not that I could afford the nd but much prefer my 2012 nc in my opinion it's more roomy and comfortable but just as much fun and the retractable hard top I have is again better looking and rear vision much better still a gr8 looking fun car
You did not just say the nc looks better than any other miata right? Its by far the ugliest
@@PoeticInsanity think what you want I think it's the best looking as I said more muscular and comfortable and just as much fun not driven the na but don't like the pop up headlights drove nb and nd and that's my opinion
@@stevelufc64 nc is fugly and the worst miata
I have a 2019 gt rf with the gt package that adds the dif -and club suspension. I sold my 2010 retractable hardtop but still not sure which care I like better . The nc retractable hardtop is a much better answer as the whole top disappears. I think the rf looks way better but not one complaint on the nc .
Soft top for me. If I wanted a folding hardtop, they had a better design with the old NC.
Recaros are a factory option in the USA, but not here sadly
@@ikilledthemoon I HONESTLY don't know why the hardtop exists. Goes against the ethos of MX-5 with extra weight, complexity, cost and a neutered experience!
@@MrBenHaynes Some people just like a quieter cabin that’s more resistant to leaking. Not only that, softtops require maintenance and eventually need replacing. Additionally, the hardtop is more secure from a theft standpoint. Also, there are people like me who love the car and hate convertibles. I’d likely never drive this car with the top down so the hardtop becomes a great option. I do wish the top retracted completely like the NC though.
54k for a miata! LOL!!! Does it already come with an LS V8? At that price it should! I like miata's and want one in a few years, but 54k for a 2L NA... sorry but no, hell no actually. Mayyyybe if it was something more like the Honda F20c... still would be a no for me, but I'd at least get it.
Third, Podium! But I'm biased, Mazda MX-5 is overpriced for what Mazda give you and the Toyota 86 is overwhelmed by the superior torque-to-weight (..well of the base 2L conv!) of the little mighty mazda!
A review looking for something critical to say about a car that is ...let’s face it....wonderful....
Those skinny rear tires look so weird.
Why compare a convertible to a coupe?! It's like comparing a hatchback to a suv. 🙄
excellent review until you said coilovers!
What’s wrong with coilovers?
@@moart87 Because there are plenty of bad coilovers. Updating springs, shocks, or coilovers could improve the car, but could also make it worse. The great thing about this review was we got to see it on typical Aussie lumpy roads, showing the benefit of compliance. Bad or good is subjective, the problem may be springs, damping, rebound, or overall stiffness in the linkages or bushings. The answer isn't clear, but the problem is clear, the car could do with some improvements to ride and/or handling.
Better than an 86? Of course.
Nop
@@GastonMaqueda yup
@@danielthomas5486
In what is better?
Suspension and behaviour in curves: 86 better
Performance : 86 better
Space for a daily use : 86 better
Centre of gravity - 86 better
Steering wheel : 86 better
Differential : 86 Better.
Insurance cost : 86 better.
Stick shift : 86 better
Seat position : 86 better
Besides the converible, what is better in the Mazda?
@@GastonMaqueda the 86 is one ugly car for starters what was Toyota thinking??and 4 seats and the 5 is faster in 181 hp version,and the 5 is an icon the Toyota well it's a Toyota....peace
@@danielthomas5486
You didn't answer any of my questions?
Just. the car is ugly (For you)
Wich 5 doors is faster?
Faster doesn't means better
That is the typical mistake of people who don't understand absolutely nothing about cars and driving and spend more time in interner reading statics than behind a wheel of a real car. I called them " The Dominic Toretto Generation"
REVIEW THE 2021 RANGE ROVER VELAR!
I will buy that car and tune it up
A great sport car for sure, but too expensive and impractical for daily use, hence why there are way more 86s on the road
I much prefer the 86/BRZ to the the MX5.
The flat 4 motor gives a more responsive steering response with the lower centre of gravity and weight more centred.
It makes the 86 more dynamically balanced all round for me.
@@mackeymichael I much prefer the MX5 as a stock package - the power delivery in the 86 is unforgiveable
Expensive to buy but cheap to run (excluding depreciation due to the initial outlay). Its our second car, but get used more than 50% of the time!
MX-5s have been my daily drivers since 1990. Owned 4 since new, then each graduates from daily drivers to track.
I’ve always had a second car, but the Miata always gets the most driven. Whenever I purchase a new daily driver, I look at alternatives, even much more expensive ones, but I have, so far, always stayed with Miatas.
Biggest reason that it’s a great daily driver? It makes EVERY day I drive one a better day. Even if I just go back and forth to work.
I have owned many, many cars and, for me, very, very few can do that.
For me they have all been very reliable, cheap to operate, cheap to modify, cheap to repair. Maybe not an obvious choice to be a daily driver, but if you try it, I bet you’ll wonder why it wasn’t obvious.
What Kent McDaniel said.
I just have to save for a bit more than 4 years with no eating to have this beauty
Figure out how to increase your income, keep your same lifestyle.
Miata not here it’s MX5 🇦🇺🦘🙅🏻♂️
definitely (if you fit in it)
I'll wait for the new BRZ
Next year its coming out
Why is he getting in on the wrong sIdE Of tHe CaR?
54 grand, mate? Jesus H. Christ. Forget it.
Alright, now take the engine from the 2.5 turbo Mazda 3 and shove it in here... please, I beg.
Great idea - Mazda - ru listening - maybe this will be Mazda's final parting act for the MX-5, the MX-5T. Perhaps it would destroy the character of the car? Mazda - ru listening - do a deal with Edelbrock and do a final version with an Edelbrock Supercharger and call it the MX-5S. Now that would be something, with the Bilstein Shocks, Brembo Brakes and some lovely Recaro's. Sign here, press hard, 3 copies - sold!