Wow this is the best review I've seen on mx5 and I've watched hundreds. No gushing and warts and all review. thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am now considering to buy the 2020 RF with Recaro and Biltstein but no Brembo (That my best option) and this 2022 has something called Kinematic Posture Control which i suspects is a software update that applies braking on cornering. Some would not like this as it might wear out pads but so far I can't tell if its able to be turned off. I can only get one car and need to order this or the Model 3 tesla (yes, you may say strange options but that's it for me and given the tax situation in portugal its more or less the same price) Could I ask for you advice 1) Some people say the gear shifts keep popping? I am surprised at this as i am told the gearing is excellent. 2) What do you suspect about Kinematic Posture Control? This helps with cornering and Im led to believe its software that will mess around with the brakes 3) Would you recommend but seat lowering kit for person 185 So appreciate your feedback any viewers also
thank you very much, much appreciated and glad you like. I did realize I did not talk anything about wind buffeting ... I am not sure exactly how this posture control will make the car feel! However the essence of an MX5 is to keep it as simple as possible. I would consider a car without it and go for swaybars and coilovers/springs #1: Not had this problem, wouldn't think it is something that is common. Could be that they have not engaged the gear properly or shifting to fast :D #2: I would get a car without it, however maybe there will be some review and it will be great. Also not sure how this would word with aftermarket swaybars, springs, coilovers as that would impact ride height, lean, pitch, role etc... #3: I would say go for test-drives and see what you think, but I guess you would like to have it lower than OEM
If you're still looking, you'll fit at 185 but it'll be starting to get tight, and I drive a 21 and I've had no issues with my shifter or trans at 12,000 miles. The ND1 had trans issues in the first couple years but that was ironed out after the 2016 model year. They're supremely reliable.
@@jesuslivesinmytoilet thanks. I may consider a one inch lowering kit mainly to assist viewing out of the window. And avoiding crouching at traffic signals. Cheers for info
You different options for the seat brackets Paco motorsport as an example that lowers but gives a fixed position or the Aurora seat brackets that do provide the option of sliding the seat. Both you need to get from US though
@@Themazcorner thanks as i understand it the Aurora will lower by TOO much like 2 inches or more so that is a bit of an issue especially with elbow position for posing (joke about posing). So i may be going for Paco. Will have to order it to me from the US. assume they deliver outside the US?
I looked at the Mazda Miata and Mustang 5.0 I test drove them both, researched them both, Bought the Mazda, paid half the price and got twice the car. Perfect choice. Sold the motorcycle I had as I didnt need it anymore. The Miata redifines driving for me. Now it's fun its relaxing its exciting. This all happened in March of this year. Nine months and 11000 miles later Miata is the Answer in my opinion.
Great that you enjoy car and did a choice that suits you well. It is is indeed a superfun car to drive. However what I am mainly missing are my backseats so I can take the whole family with me buying ice-cream :D there are some sad faces no and then when one of the kids have to say home haha. Is the car stock or have you changed anything?
Hey I'm literally considering selling my xsr900 and buying one of these. Feeling like it's probably safer than my bike.. and I have not only my Wife but a 27 month old daughter consider when riding my bike. Tough decision but I'm thinking it may give a similar open air experience in a slightly safer machine. Any thoughts from that perspective.
I have owned a 2018 Mustang GT. Power and sound were fun, but it never truly felt like a sports car. It was a fantastic highway car. I loved the power when driving in the highway. I still sold it. I am also a bike person…racing motocross, street bikes etc. The XSR is a great bike, but you are right with the Miata being safer. I am looking at one right now. Good luck everyone.
@@uploadtime1780 I used to ride my motorcycles starting at 13 doing dirt tracks. Later on I had a 1975 BSR Gold Star 500 cc enduro type motorcycle but driving on the streets I had too many close calls that made me sell my motorcycles at 22. Too many friends with lifelong injuries reminding what I went thru. So many decades later I tried the MX-5 Club soft top because of a RUclips review calling the MX- 5 the best sports car under $50,000 ( Jason from engineering explained review ruclips.net/video/Wh-BldfPuXo/видео.html ). So I'm much older now & jumped into a test drive at the local Mazda dealer. Even with the light rain 40 degree temperature the car connected me to the road like no other. This was back in the 1st week of March 2017 & the dealer had a 2016 MX-5 Club soft top in Artic White with the Brembo / BBS package. I had a weekend test drive the dealer let me have ( he knew that the car would sell me ). So I drove it over 240 miles & bought it after work on that Monday checkbook in hand - traded in my old car too. It has been my daily drive ever since & I live in 4 season Northern Illinois. My winter tires are stacked on a dolly in the garage. I always drive with the headlights on like I'm still riding a motorcycle as some of those Big trucks cannot see me so Artic White sticks out. Hard not to see me now.
Great vid. Dailying a ND1 for about 1.5yrs now with plenty of interstate time and no regrets. Storage is plenty for 99.9% of activities, never felt like it needs more power. Not a fast car, but small and quick makes if feel fast. Feels more like a motorcycle on the interstate with how small it is, received "the salute", plenty of times so far when the little tiny miata "comes out of nowhere" probably time for a dashcam too.
thank you, glad you liked it. Also thank you for you input! It sure is a fun car and as you say the compact size can be a surprise for some! Get a dash cam, I regret I did not install mine until it was to late :(
Sold mine the beginning of this year. WORST decision ever! Watching your video almost brought tears to my eyes, thinking about all the memories i had with it of owning this car just for a year :') This car is about lightness, agility, fun, cruising, attacking slow speed corners on the street :p Off course more power on track would be nice to keep up with the big boys on a straight line. But driving this little thing on the limit is more rewarding than creating some kind of over the top turbo horsepower monster xD
what is good in all this is that you know what it is like and that it is hopefully possible to get into a new one or if a new version comes out in some time! agreed to all points! But man do I miss some power :D. The sound department is good now on mine but it now sounds like it has 400hp :D
Great review. I've got the 2019 ND2 Club RF soul red crystal with brembo brakes , bbs wheels, and 205 PS4 tires. I love the car for its looks, driving dynamics and the great performance vs fuel economy positioning. When I play golf, the clubs ride shotgun. I have only 36K miles in 5+ years of ownership, change the synthetic oil every 3500 miles, and I changed out the transmission and diff oil at 25K. I also apply CRC intake valve cleaner every 10K w no smoke emerging from the exhaust during application as well as fuel system cleaner. I have not tracked it, but drive it very quickly but always balanced and smooth with plenty of margin. I have considered coil-overs w stiffer springs to reduce roll, but the roads are bumpy in the DC area so I will keep the OEM setup for now. The only thing I have had go wrong thus far is the washer fluid sensor which made the warning light turn on. Don't need it, so I disconnected it and tied it off, which made the washer light warning turn off.
Thank you, I sometimes am worried about the gearbox driving the cold engine and it’s reassuring to hear it’s normal. Very honest review I can also confirm the brake-lift but learned to love it to corner faster but it can be a tricky thing. You covered somewhat every point, I can say that with 6”2 I am at the limit of the seating space but do drive 1000 km on a day for holiday without problem. The seating position and space on NC was better, and the only remark I have as a negative is the hard surface hitting my leg and the engine note that can be a bit deeper and angrier to match the cars dynamics. You solved it nicely with after market parts. As for driving dynamics yes you got it right and as for sportiness it’s more than enough for the legal part of things. For me it’s still the most fun you are legally allowed and the most fun for the money. More competent cars like PORSCHE 911 or Alpine 110 need speeds above the legal limit to be enjoyed to the same level. By the way I had my reservations on the orange color when it came to the market but it has grown on me and I admire your car as its build today.
thank you, glad you liked it! It is a drastic change in sound! It is very loud above 5k rpm with the catless/resonator delete midpipe. I really like the sound but now it suffers from the Harley Davidson syndrome much sound no go :D
Out of all the high performance cars I’ve had the pleasure of owning and driving, non makes me smile quite like the mx5 does, this modest roadster is just more enjoyable to drive than practically everything else I’ve experienced, a 2015 911 is the only one that’s had the same effect on me, but costs a lot more, and is much higher risk of ownership.
Great review! You nailed the major points. Quick question. What’s with the tape/velcro against the MX5Things air deflector on the drivers side rollbar? Is that there for the deflector? I watched that video and didn’t see where you installed that. Do you still recommend the deflector? I’m considering it for my 2018 ND1 Club.
Thank you! Glad you liked it. I used to have my action cam mounted with a suction cup directly on the deflector that was to much for the whole contraption. So the deflector was not sitting put anymore, did therefore replace sidemounts with velcro instead.
The velcros are securing the deflector on the sides. The fasteners on the sides that where included did not hold the deflector in place over time even without having a camera attached.
Miata is always the answer -- unless you are over about 5'11" tall, and / or have long legs. I would have bought a Miata a _long_ time ago, if I fit comfortably. When I was sports car shopping a couple of years ago, my $10k budget would have covered a fairly solid NC, including all the necessary refurbishing of bushings, shocks, joints, electronics, paint correction, and what-have-you that is pretty much always necessary to make me happy. After much research and elimination, other possibilities were: Early Porsche Boxster BMW Z3 / early Z4 BMW 3-series Coupe (e36/e46) Nissan 350Z Chevy Corvette (C4) In the end, the right Corvette became available at the right price. The C4 Corvette is among the most misunderstood and misrepresented of cars, it solves _all_ of the space and ergonomic problems that come with a Miata, and it is absolutely loaded with cool personality. I do think I would have been happy with any of these cars. The Porsche cabin is also a bit tight for my long-legged 6'1" frame, and it can be pricey to maintain, but it's a flat-six / mid-engine Porsche. The BMWs are all terrific cars, but I've already had a bunch of classic BMWs. The 350Z is a very good car, solid and dependable (which matters a lot to me), with no big flaws but also no truly outstanding virtues.
Thank you for the comment! It sure is a bit cramped cockpit. I am short and I find a it sometimes a bit cumbersome to get in and out of the car :D The corvette C4s are quite rare on the roads here in Sweden, corvettes in general are. Mustangs there are quite a few though. Good that you found a car of your liking and that you can enjoy driving it
From what you have said. You probably need a Lotus Elise. A bit harder. More precise and with 50 more horses. You gotta be quick thou as the final edition is running out soon.
The Elise seems to be a really nice car! However if I go for a two-seater again I'll go for a 718 of some sort preferably the GTS 4.0 or the Spyder/GT4
Good review. Another important point:- while all other sports cars have come and gone and now most of the others now going EV. This car is still real manual with three pedals, real analog dash, real hand brake, real original sports car plan. There’s really no competitors. I’ve ordered the new 2024 still the same concept 😊
Exchanging my 5.0 GT for one of these 30AE ones today. Hype! Throughout the fun one and a half year of ownership of the Mustang, I kept missing the feeling my previous GT86 exposed me to. Instead of going back to a safe place, I'm willing to trade the extra practicallity of the 86 for a totally new to me soft top experience. An essential mod will be an exhaust because the V8 with a resonator delete has my ears spoiled.
thank you! If you can manage with regards to the practicality bits. The maintenance should not be worry in general. It is relatively cheap car to run irrespective of market. The consumables are cheap as well. I am not sure what type of weather you have where you live but if you have heavy winters then maybe it is is not the best car as such.
Hi Maz Thank you for a great review. I,m thinking about buying Eibach lowering springs, wheel spacers and sway bars for my 2024 mx5 exclusive line. Would you recommend sway bars from Flying Miata or progress sway bars ? What kind ? and which wheel spacers would you recommend? Many thanks in advance and thank you for all your great videos
sorry for the late reply! Congrats on the car! Both swaybar options are popular from my understanding! Wheel spacers folks usually run 15/20 setup from e.g eibach/HR
@@Themazcorner No problem Maz and thank you very much for your response. I really love your Miata. You have done a great jobb with it. Hope to see you and your car in one of the events in Sweden
Let me sum that up for you (and save you 30 minutes of life time): Miata IS ALWAYS the answer! If you still prefer to watch I recommend playing at 1.5 times speed.
@@Themazcorner I did for more than 8 years now. That's why I know that Miata is always the answer. You upload videos? Fine. Does everybody have to share your opinion? No.
I have had a 220 bbrgti conversation eibach springs and spaces and tariox discs fitted it is now the way it should have come out the factory this is my 5 th mx5 and definitely the best
I actually did the opposite, or in the process per say. I sold my ND2 and buying a GR86 soon. 2.4L engine without increasing the weight and all the practicality of the first gen.
Yeah the new BRZ/GT86 seems to have nice improvements. I guess it comes down to practicality and if one wants a roadster. The new BRZ is not even coming to Sweden due to emissions and sales figures :(. Not sure about the Toyota
@@dylansorenson2784 the New Gr86 is nice and pulls good but. Id rather have inline 4 cly then the Boxer engine. Its just a way easier platform to maintain over time also for it not being my only Car and jot my Daily i dont need the rear Seats.
Great review. I am curious though? Which of the two would you choose. Mustang GT or the Miata? I known they are different cars and it is probably a bit of a long and complex answer.
sorry for the delayed answer! yeah it is a bit complex. My main question would be do I need 2+2 seats, will the car be daily, do I need space for carrying stuff, potentially something that move fast For me if any of those things are a hard yes then I would go for the Mustang. E.g. I I cannot take the whole family with the MX5 so everytime there is a family occasion we have to take our other car which is a bummer. For me both cars really great and I would happy with either but they do delivery emotions in different ways. But then you have other aspects such as price, maintenance, consumables, fuel, insurance as well to consider all of (exept for service at least here in Sweden is almost a draw). Also I have always found it funny and inaccurate when people say it's jailtime rightaway in a Mustang. That is not true it's not like one cannot drive to fast in an MX5 on public roads. Which leads me to another thing I and I belive I mentioned it in the video. Driving the MX5 on regular roads as such is no more fun than a Mustang, I would say the contrary, round abouts, on-ramps, exit ramps are fun in both. They both have their place where they shine so to speak and Mustangs not being able to take turns is BS. On with better(specially wider tires on the front) and some suspension tuning and they can take corners really well as well (just take a look at the Mach 1 time at VIR Road & track test) . Short story long there is no simple answer :)
that was the answer I was looking for. Thanks. As a long term owner you gave a very good description for the Miata. Great review. Thankyou.@@Themazcorner
Everything has its pros and cons. However, aside from the lack of HP, the car does exactly what it’s supposed to do. This is a toy IMO and not a grocery getter. So really not practical for a daily driver. But having a Miata with 300 whp would probably rearrange your perspective and enhance your overall experience.
Sorry for the delayed response. Sure is not the car to get if practicality is important :D. Yeah a bit more grunt would have not hurt as such from a straight line performance. How much are you running in your car now?
I own 2 miatas 1997 and a new 2021 the miata is the answer depending on the question if you like reliability and descent gas mileage with good handling then your good to go ! I recommend the na as a timeless car that will actually out handle the new nd
I have videos on both if you want more details. The wheel is an OEM wheel modded by Meinlenkrad. The shifter knob is a Raceseng Stratose with Alcantara and custom orange color(discountinued)
I have no tune om my car! Getting a header with high flow cats/catless will for sure give some gain, not much though (10-15whp?). Specially not on a ND2. What is guaranteed is that it will give much higher exhaust note :)
It's an OEM wheel that I did send off to a company called Meinlenkrad. You also have company called Guardiandesign that many use as well. I have videos of the wheel itself, here is one ruclips.net/video/cC5qGLE8byg/видео.html
The wheel is from meinlenkrad, you can also check guardian design. Gear knob is from Raceseng, it is the model called Stratose with Alcantara and custom orange color The tachometer is from IL motorosport I have videos of each part on my channel if you are interested
Hey Maz, I have that same car and after 2.5 yrs with this car. I'm not convinced that the 30AE mx5 is complete. I watch you modify the car and enjoy the content, but I think the 30AE has shortcomings. The power should have been increased to over 200HP. The exhaust should be redesigned or sourced to sound like an Alfa 4C and get rid of that ridiculous sound tube. The car needed to be lowered so it has an aggressive stance. Make the car tighter with less roll. It's a money pit to put after-market products. When it's all said and done, you'll have sunk hours and $$$ when you could have bought a better performance car off the lot.
I agree on that it is not complete and it sure does need mods at least in my opinion to give it more character. All cars for me are money pits lol. The only I have not modded yet is the ID3 :D. With that said with the mods I have done it feel like a real nice package from the way I see it
@@Themazcorner You certainly personalized your 30AE and I like what you did. I'm just hesitant to go down that direction. Others tell me, I should keep it stock when I plan to sell it. Don't get me wrong it's a fun car but... If Dodge can put out a hellcat and Ford can put out a Cobra. They why can't Mazda put a Miata Godzilla, yes fire breathing tail pips, and leaf sharp dorsal fins. Fuck yeah! and a stink that's left behind when you smoke that Alpha 4C. I'm don't want to hear Zoom Zoom I want to hear rumble pop rumble. Oh! I've been looking at those Frankenstein Mini but after reviewing that short-range go-cart may not meet my needs. I'm looking. at you mustang mach e. cheers
I have videos of each individual part if you need more information The exhaust and diffuser are from Ulter Sport: www.ebay.com/itm/313652394490?hash=item490723b9fa:g:I5gAAOSwSwBgEjQO The rear spoiler is from a seller called OEM things on eBay, there are lot ND owners that do have spoilers from them
As a driving machine in my opinion the MX5/Miata is a far more superior car compare to e.g. the Mini Cooper. I have not driven a Smart car but would think the same applies :)
That part where you say "oh shit I'm in big trouble" that was me, owning the car only about 2 months I went in semi hard onto an on ramp with traction off and oh boy lost complete control!!! I almost T-boned an SUV on the right lane when I countersteered I almost then hit the wall to my left I somehow managed to recover but I was nano seconds from complete destruction of my new ND, its partly my fault for not knowing the car yet but I also feel the suspension has a delay & isn't linear which probably assisted in the loss of control. 😬
Damn that sure sounds like a “ohh shit” moment! Glad to hear nothing as such happened apart from new underwear needed 😂 Yes the rear end steps out even not having much HP and one needs to be careful with the setup I have now it grips a lot but it’s a bit unpredictable to know when the oversteer is coming. I will try to work more with the wheel alignment for next season.
@@Themazcorner Yes - but from your first post - you were on a public highway and it certainly sounds like you were driving it pretty aggressively. Perhaps that had something to do with it?
Saying to someone to buy a mustang instead of a miata because the miata is unpractical as a daily driven car is so wrong on so many levels LOL The miata is the perfect toy AND the perfect daily-car. You need a second car AFTER the miata, not the other way around! You know what's the real issue the miata has? The price (in Europe in particular). Although... Now it's 2022 and the GR86 is out and is better on the majority of aspects when compared to the miata (I die every time I say this btw). In fact I'm awaiting for mine to arrive.
sorry for the late reply! The MX5 as a daily would kill me(using it as a "daily" at the moment, waiting for my new EV to arrive). The new BRZ/GT86 seems to be really great! All the fun more or less and the space to go with. The only thing is that they are coupes and not verts. But apart from that really hard to beat.
Amen on the price. The price-difference with the USA is huge, especially in The Netherlands. You can buy a new one in the US for the price of a 3-year old car here. And amen on the fact that now I only have the MX-5 (a 2016 ND 1.5), I need a second car! That's probably gonna be a superlight and nimble, used but well-cared for 15-year old-ish Suzuki Swift or Daihatsu Sirion2. We pay road-tax here depending on curb-weight, and our gas prices are among the world's highest (seriously). This for the oncoming rain-season that usually lasts about 7 to 8 months. We have no real winters anymore here. And for carrying anything bigger than a handbag!
@@rustinpieces I hear you man, I'm from Italy and we pay taxes based on the engine's power output (plus many more stuff in addition to that) with the gas prices quite high as well aot... Actually the small miata is perfect for out market it's relatively cheap to maintain but the price remains extremely expensive for the amount of car you get!
Supercharger will address the power issue…without making it too heavy…if Mazda made it more powerful, it would be 500lbs heavier and 10k more expensive..lol
yeah the SC route is nice. But I wrote to another post that I would eat gearboxes in rapid pace with the way I drive. Also having an SC in Sweden the car would not pass the yearly inspection :( 240-250 hp/170-180ft/lb would have been nice :D
That is a shame! I can imagine it is a bit tight fit, fortunately I am short so I have no issues with regards to fitment Do you have the same issue in the ND2 with the telescoping steering column?
the way I drive I would have to change the gearbox every month :D But the idea is nice, now Fab9 has been able to crack the ND2 ECU for FI implementations (at least SC). Problem in Sweden one is not allowed to make such installements as it will not pass inspections --> Either you need to bribe someone or need to take it of once a year do the inspection and then install it all again.... :D
I’m a writer. Nice, thorough review, though I believe you gave it the wrong title. “Miata is not always the answer” suggests what follows will be significantly less than positive; your review is mostly quite favorable, so your title doesn’t match up well with what follows. You need something along the lines of “Not always the answer, but pretty darn close”. Yes, LITERALLY, saying “Miata is not always the answer” is, of course, technically correct, but that’s a title that more appropriately belongs in front of a largely negative review.
Hi Richard! thank you for the feedback, much appreciated. I wrote that title to give a nod to everyone that says Miata is always the answer :D. But I do get you point fully in what you mean also the intention was to stir around a bit.
I purchased a 2018 MX-5 GT, black with the cherry top. The first few months were great and I eventually installed coilovers, sway bars, HKS exhaust, wheels, sticky tires, and a few other things. After each mod, I enjoyed the car more and more until, I didn't. After a 1 year of ownership I began to dislike many things about my MX-5. Prior to, I had owned several Mustangs, Corvettes, and Porsche 911 (not all at once). The Miata has the best shifter feel of any car I have owned, seriously the best feel. Paint & finish: The build quality is pathetic and within 1,000 miles I had deep rock chips on the front end, and no, protective film is not the answer. I called Mazda's corporate office and they beat around the bush about their finish. Mazda cut corners on the paint, plain and simple. The same can be said for the wheels which developed rock chips. Mind you, I tracked my Mustangs, Corvettes and did mountain runs in the 911 and chips would not appear at the level they did on the ND. Interior: The entertainment system is horrible and the bluetooth worked half the time while the USB cable constantly unplugged that I eventually glued my cord to the outlet. The interior is of poor quality unless you pay extra and get the BBS package which puts an ND shy of $40,000. Even then, are plenty of cheap plastic parts throughout the cabin that scratch easily. The GT model comes with a "double layer" top to cope with road noise, except it doesn't. The Miata is a loud car and cruising at highway speeds is accompanied with annoying tire, road and wind noise. The factory Bose system even has an option to raise the volume to balance out the sounds. I didn't expect a quite cabin like those found in a Lexus LS460, but I also did not expect it be louder than my 90's Mustang convertible. Space: I commuted to work alone and carried a backpack with a laptop and a lunch bag, daily. They both stayed in the trunk during the commute and for the most part the small cargo space was bearable. In one instance my wife and I commuted for a month and the Miata was our only car. It was a nightmare to say the least, two backpacks and two lunch bags, and rain coast was enough to make the trunk look full. If a Costco run was needed, the wife would have to stay home as the front seat was used for cargo room. This car is small even for a small guy (5.5) like myself. It is perfect for a single guy who buys microwave dinners. Power: It is unfair to compare the MX-5 to any of my former cars, including my 440hp LS3 Corvette, so I'll compare it my wife's Lexus CT200h, basically a Prius with a "sport mode" that engages the full power the engine and electric motor. The MX-5 feels quick from 1st to 3rd gear but then it dies out, as does my wife's CT200H. There is no power to over pass another car on the highway and dropping a gear will only make the engine scream with minimal movement, as does my wife's CT200T. This car is slow by any standards, it's power is laughable for a 2016 model. My wife's car is slow as well, but the difference is the CT is built to be fuel effect yet feels like it would keep up with the ND. Those who say it is "plenty" fast are lying to themselves. This is why the older, outdated Honda S2000 is still king, power was adequate, something that can't be said about the ND.1 nor ND.2. It is slow, plain and simply and Mazda has no excuse for building an under powered car with 155hp (181 for ND). Does it handle well? After addressing the body roll, yes, but so does every other modern car. This argument is a weak point for ND reviews because again, even a modern Toyota Camry handles well. People who say, "just add" a turbo or a supercharger should consider this: an ND2 with some decent options is around $40,000. If you supercharge it, you can kiss the warranty good-bye and we know how weak the transmissions are. Say you purchased a new ND2 RF with the BBS and then add an Edelbrock supercharger and supporting mods, you are closer to $50,000 and will still lose to a 2000s Camaro, Cobra, Cayman at the drag strip, at a track meet or a mountain run and those guys will have paid way, way less for their car. I do think Mazda spend a pretty penny advertising the MX-5 and many RUclips reviews were bias when the car hit the market. There was so much hype about the ND and I think that is what sold me on it, the reviews. Conclusion: I ended up selling the Miata ND and getting a Porsche Cayman 987.1. The Cayman is actually functional and was cheaper than a new MX-5. It's 2.7L flat-6 does not feel slow and pulls hard through all the gears. The 987 handles a million times better in stock form than the ND.
That was ana excellent review. I also have a Miata ND Gt 2023 AND an Ct200h. The CT200H was really a great surprise, ... a great car. I like my Miata, but the total lack of storage in the cabin is really annoying, especially the joke cupholders and no reasonable storage bins or glove box. I miss my Corvette C6, but still enjoy my Corvette 1978, which has great storage space for a 2 seater.
and, as usual not ONE WORD about sound levels with the top up. Can you converse? Must you shout to the other person if you are not alone? Can you speak on the phone via blue tooth hookup, or do you need to shout? I guess "no one cares", but I do, and everyone I know cares, for long road trips when you are not alone. For that matter, if I AM alone, I care--and everyone I know cares. AND NOT ONE WORD.
haha think of your blood pressure :D. I cannot comment that much for a standard car as I have different wheel tires and exhaust! But tire and wind noise is a thing above 70-80 mph I would say. You can have conversation with a passenger but above 40-60 you would need to speak louder with the passenger but no need for shouting. Phone calls even with the top open at around 40-50 is very doable I would say but you would need to speak a bit louder to overcome the surrounding noises but you can hear the person on the phone quite clearly. I would say the best is if you can take a test drive an experience yourself. Everyone reckognize sounds a bit differently and are more or less prone to fatigue etc.
I have videos on both if you want more details. The wheel is an OEM wheel modded by Meinlenkrad. The shifter knob is a Raceseng Stratose with Alcantara and custom orange color(discountinued)
Wow this is the best review I've seen on mx5 and I've watched hundreds. No gushing and warts and all review. thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am now considering to buy the 2020 RF with Recaro and Biltstein but no Brembo (That my best option) and this 2022 has something called Kinematic Posture Control which i suspects is a software update that applies braking on cornering. Some would not like this as it might wear out pads but so far I can't tell if its able to be turned off. I can only get one car and need to order this or the Model 3 tesla (yes, you may say strange options but that's it for me and given the tax situation in portugal its more or less the same price)
Could I ask for you advice
1) Some people say the gear shifts keep popping? I am surprised at this as i am told the gearing is excellent.
2) What do you suspect about Kinematic Posture Control? This helps with cornering and Im led to believe its software that will mess around with the brakes
3) Would you recommend but seat lowering kit for person 185
So appreciate your feedback any viewers also
thank you very much, much appreciated and glad you like. I did realize I did not talk anything about wind buffeting ...
I am not sure exactly how this posture control will make the car feel! However the essence of an MX5 is to keep it as simple as possible. I would consider a car without it and go for swaybars and coilovers/springs
#1: Not had this problem, wouldn't think it is something that is common. Could be that they have not engaged the gear properly or shifting to fast :D
#2: I would get a car without it, however maybe there will be some review and it will be great. Also not sure how this would word with aftermarket swaybars, springs, coilovers as that would impact ride height, lean, pitch, role etc...
#3: I would say go for test-drives and see what you think, but I guess you would like to have it lower than OEM
If you're still looking, you'll fit at 185 but it'll be starting to get tight, and I drive a 21 and I've had no issues with my shifter or trans at 12,000 miles. The ND1 had trans issues in the first couple years but that was ironed out after the 2016 model year. They're supremely reliable.
@@jesuslivesinmytoilet thanks. I may consider a one inch lowering kit mainly to assist viewing out of the window. And avoiding crouching at traffic signals. Cheers for info
You different options for the seat brackets Paco motorsport as an example that lowers but gives a fixed position or the Aurora seat brackets that do provide the option of sliding the seat.
Both you need to get from US though
@@Themazcorner thanks as i understand it the Aurora will lower by TOO much like 2 inches or more so that is a bit of an issue especially with elbow position for posing (joke about posing). So i may be going for Paco. Will have to order it to me from the US. assume they deliver outside the US?
I looked at the Mazda Miata and Mustang 5.0 I test drove them both, researched them both, Bought the Mazda, paid half the price and got twice the car. Perfect choice. Sold the motorcycle I had as I didnt need it anymore. The Miata redifines driving for me. Now it's fun its relaxing its exciting. This all happened in March of this year. Nine months and 11000 miles later Miata is the Answer in my opinion.
Great that you enjoy car and did a choice that suits you well. It is is indeed a superfun car to drive. However what I am mainly missing are my backseats so I can take the whole family with me buying ice-cream :D there are some sad faces no and then when one of the kids have to say home haha.
Is the car stock or have you changed anything?
Hey I'm literally considering selling my xsr900 and buying one of these. Feeling like it's probably safer than my bike.. and I have not only my Wife but a 27 month old daughter consider when riding my bike.
Tough decision but I'm thinking it may give a similar open air experience in a slightly safer machine.
Any thoughts from that perspective.
For me as well. I never had a car like this but it’s my first sports car too so not much to compare. I’ve had a lot of cars tho but they sucked
I have owned a 2018 Mustang GT. Power and sound were fun, but it never truly felt like a sports car. It was a fantastic highway car. I loved the power when driving in the highway. I still sold it. I am also a bike person…racing motocross, street bikes etc. The XSR is a great bike, but you are right with the Miata being safer. I am looking at one right now. Good luck everyone.
@@uploadtime1780 I used to ride my motorcycles starting at 13 doing dirt tracks. Later on I had a 1975 BSR Gold Star 500 cc enduro type motorcycle but driving on the streets I had too many close calls that made me sell my motorcycles at 22. Too many friends with lifelong injuries reminding what I went thru. So many decades later I tried the MX-5 Club soft top because of a RUclips review calling the MX- 5 the best sports car under $50,000 ( Jason from engineering explained review ruclips.net/video/Wh-BldfPuXo/видео.html ). So I'm much older now & jumped into a test drive at the local Mazda dealer. Even with the light rain 40 degree temperature the car connected me to the road like no other. This was back in the 1st week of March 2017 & the dealer had a 2016 MX-5 Club soft top in Artic White with the Brembo / BBS package. I had a weekend test drive the dealer let me have ( he knew that the car would sell me ). So I drove it over 240 miles & bought it after work on that Monday checkbook in hand - traded in my old car too. It has been my daily drive ever since & I live in 4 season Northern Illinois. My winter tires are stacked on a dolly in the garage. I always drive with the headlights on like I'm still riding a motorcycle as some of those Big trucks cannot see me so Artic White sticks out. Hard not to see me now.
Great vid. Dailying a ND1 for about 1.5yrs now with plenty of interstate time and no regrets. Storage is plenty for 99.9% of activities, never felt like it needs more power. Not a fast car, but small and quick makes if feel fast. Feels more like a motorcycle on the interstate with how small it is, received "the salute", plenty of times so far when the little tiny miata "comes out of nowhere" probably time for a dashcam too.
thank you, glad you liked it. Also thank you for you input! It sure is a fun car and as you say the compact size can be a surprise for some! Get a dash cam, I regret I did not install mine until it was to late :(
Does this car need premium or regular unleaded fuel btw? Also if you have a 1.5 what is the mpg like?
I always fill it up with 98 which is the equivalent to your premium
Sold mine the beginning of this year. WORST decision ever! Watching your video almost brought tears to my eyes, thinking about all the memories i had with it of owning this car just for a year :') This car is about lightness, agility, fun, cruising, attacking slow speed corners on the street :p Off course more power on track would be nice to keep up with the big boys on a straight line. But driving this little thing on the limit is more rewarding than creating some kind of over the top turbo horsepower monster xD
what is good in all this is that you know what it is like and that it is hopefully possible to get into a new one or if a new version comes out in some time!
agreed to all points! But man do I miss some power :D. The sound department is good now on mine but it now sounds like it has 400hp :D
Tasteful mods, love the looks. Subbed.
Thank you glad you like it
Great review. I've got the 2019 ND2 Club RF soul red crystal with brembo brakes , bbs wheels, and 205 PS4 tires. I love the car for its looks, driving dynamics and the great performance vs fuel economy positioning. When I play golf, the clubs ride shotgun. I have only 36K miles in 5+ years of ownership, change the synthetic oil every 3500 miles, and I changed out the transmission and diff oil at 25K. I also apply CRC intake valve cleaner every 10K w no smoke emerging from the exhaust during application as well as fuel system cleaner. I have not tracked it, but drive it very quickly but always balanced and smooth with plenty of margin. I have considered coil-overs w stiffer springs to reduce roll, but the roads are bumpy in the DC area so I will keep the OEM setup for now. The only thing I have had go wrong thus far is the washer fluid sensor which made the warning light turn on. Don't need it, so I disconnected it and tied it off, which made the washer light warning turn off.
thank glad you liked it and thank you for sharing your experience!
Thank you, I sometimes am worried about the gearbox driving the cold engine and it’s reassuring to hear it’s normal. Very honest review I can also confirm the brake-lift but learned to love it to corner faster but it can be a tricky thing. You covered somewhat every point, I can say that with 6”2 I am at the limit of the seating space but do drive 1000 km on a day for holiday without problem. The seating position and space on NC was better, and the only remark I have as a negative is the hard surface hitting my leg and the engine note that can be a bit deeper and angrier to match the cars dynamics. You solved it nicely with after market parts. As for driving dynamics yes you got it right and as for sportiness it’s more than enough for the legal part of things. For me it’s still the most fun you are legally allowed and the most fun for the money. More competent cars like PORSCHE 911 or Alpine 110 need speeds above the legal limit to be enjoyed to the same level. By the way I had my reservations on the orange color when it came to the market but it has grown on me and I admire your car as its build today.
Great review. How much did you sound improve when you went from "axle-back-only" to "mid-pipe+axle back" ? Thanks
thank you, glad you liked it!
It is a drastic change in sound! It is very loud above 5k rpm with the catless/resonator delete midpipe.
I really like the sound but now it suffers from the Harley Davidson syndrome much sound no go :D
we live by the saying of better drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow and for me personally miata is always the answer
I am in the camp drive everything fast 😂
Thank you, the car is coming along nicely!
For the money paid it is nice specially as the it is a roadster
Out of all the high performance cars I’ve had the pleasure of owning and driving, non makes me smile quite like the mx5 does, this modest roadster is just more enjoyable to drive than practically everything else I’ve experienced, a 2015 911 is the only one that’s had the same effect on me, but costs a lot more, and is much higher risk of ownership.
I agree. But for the times that it actually is the answer, I love it!
:D agreed!
But man do I miss some of the v8 madness
Great review! You nailed the major points. Quick question. What’s with the tape/velcro against the MX5Things air deflector on the drivers side rollbar? Is that there for the deflector? I watched that video and didn’t see where you installed that. Do you still recommend the deflector? I’m considering it for my 2018 ND1 Club.
Thank you! Glad you liked it.
I used to have my action cam mounted with a suction cup directly on the deflector that was to much for the whole contraption. So the deflector was not sitting put anymore, did therefore replace sidemounts with velcro instead.
@@Themazcorner you’re welcome! Got it, so the Velcro is not for the air deflector itself, it’s for your camera mounting?
The velcros are securing the deflector on the sides. The fasteners on the sides that where included did not hold the deflector in place over time even without having a camera attached.
@@Themazcorner thanks again!
@@g60corrado91 no problem!
Swaybars are the first suspension mod I would recommend folks.
Miata is always the answer -- unless you are over about 5'11" tall, and / or have long legs. I would have bought a Miata a _long_ time ago, if I fit comfortably. When I was sports car shopping a couple of years ago, my $10k budget would have covered a fairly solid NC, including all the necessary refurbishing of bushings, shocks, joints, electronics, paint correction, and what-have-you that is pretty much always necessary to make me happy.
After much research and elimination, other possibilities were:
Early Porsche Boxster
BMW Z3 / early Z4
BMW 3-series Coupe (e36/e46)
Nissan 350Z
Chevy Corvette (C4)
In the end, the right Corvette became available at the right price. The C4 Corvette is among the most misunderstood and misrepresented of cars, it solves _all_ of the space and ergonomic problems that come with a Miata, and it is absolutely loaded with cool personality.
I do think I would have been happy with any of these cars. The Porsche cabin is also a bit tight for my long-legged 6'1" frame, and it can be pricey to maintain, but it's a flat-six / mid-engine Porsche. The BMWs are all terrific cars, but I've already had a bunch of classic BMWs. The 350Z is a very good car, solid and dependable (which matters a lot to me), with no big flaws but also no truly outstanding virtues.
Thank you for the comment! It sure is a bit cramped cockpit. I am short and I find a it sometimes a bit cumbersome to get in and out of the car :D
The corvette C4s are quite rare on the roads here in Sweden, corvettes in general are. Mustangs there are quite a few though.
Good that you found a car of your liking and that you can enjoy driving it
I'm 6'3 and the nd works for me. The NA however lol
I am 5'6 so I can fit in a glovebox 🤣
From what you have said. You probably need a Lotus Elise. A bit harder. More precise and with 50 more horses. You gotta be quick thou as the final edition is running out soon.
The Elise seems to be a really nice car! However if I go for a two-seater again I'll go for a 718 of some sort preferably the GTS 4.0 or the Spyder/GT4
Very good review sir,appreciate your thoughts.
Thank you! Glad you like it
Good review. Another important point:- while all other sports cars have come and gone and now most of the others now going EV. This car is still real manual with three pedals, real analog dash, real hand brake, real original sports car plan. There’s really no competitors. I’ve ordered the new 2024 still the same concept 😊
Exchanging my 5.0 GT for one of these 30AE ones today. Hype!
Throughout the fun one and a half year of ownership of the Mustang, I kept missing the feeling my previous GT86 exposed me to.
Instead of going back to a safe place, I'm willing to trade the extra practicallity of the 86 for a totally new to me soft top experience.
An essential mod will be an exhaust because the V8 with a resonator delete has my ears spoiled.
Nice review so far, congrats mate. Right now, im considering miata as daily driver. What you say about that for long term maintenance, etc?
thank you!
If you can manage with regards to the practicality bits. The maintenance should not be worry in general. It is relatively cheap car to run irrespective of market. The consumables are cheap as well.
I am not sure what type of weather you have where you live but if you have heavy winters then maybe it is is not the best car as such.
Hi Maz
Thank you for a great review.
I,m thinking about buying Eibach lowering springs, wheel spacers and sway bars for my 2024 mx5 exclusive line. Would you recommend sway bars from Flying Miata or progress sway bars ? What kind ? and which wheel spacers would you recommend?
Many thanks in advance and thank you for all your great videos
sorry for the late reply!
Congrats on the car!
Both swaybar options are popular from my understanding! Wheel spacers folks usually run 15/20 setup from e.g eibach/HR
@@Themazcorner
No problem Maz and thank you very much for your response.
I really love your Miata. You have done a great jobb with it.
Hope to see you and your car in one of the events in Sweden
Very nice review! thanks.
Thank you and glad you liked it!
Let me sum that up for you (and save you 30 minutes of life time): Miata IS ALWAYS the answer!
If you still prefer to watch I recommend playing at 1.5 times speed.
It is most definitely not
@@Themazcorner Yes, it is. I know from 1st hands experience.
I also know clickbaiting btw.
@@naibafabdulkobor4301 you know this is my car right and I have had it for almost 5 years now.
So see yourself out please
@@Themazcorner I did for more than 8 years now. That's why I know that Miata is always the answer. You upload videos? Fine. Does everybody have to share your opinion? No.
@@naibafabdulkobor4301 go on, move on
Mx5 is always the answer !I had a mustang Gt …..Ford Quality was not there. Ford was in the shop consistently.
Nooo 🤣
My GT was also in the shop frequently lol!
Still considering to get a Mach 1, need the back seats as I have two young ones
I had a Mustang GT before my Miata and it was problem free for the 60K miles that I drove it. I bought it new. Maybe yours was a beat up used car?
They changed my motor after 9000km,
scoring in cylinder #3
My manifold was also swapped out, also had multiple paint related issues.
Bought my car new
@@billybones2385 which car did you prefer,,, the GT or the Miata?
I have had a 220 bbrgti conversation eibach springs and spaces and tariox discs fitted it is now the way it should have come out the factory this is my 5 th mx5 and definitely the best
That sounds like a really nice combo, specially the 220 BBR kit :D!
Yeah in my opinion some tinkering is needed on the chassi-side of things at least
Damn looking to sell my Gt86 to get an ND2
Do it :D
@Michael Charity Nah
I actually did the opposite, or in the process per say. I sold my ND2 and buying a GR86 soon. 2.4L engine without increasing the weight and all the practicality of the first gen.
Yeah the new BRZ/GT86 seems to have nice improvements. I guess it comes down to practicality and if one wants a roadster.
The new BRZ is not even coming to Sweden due to emissions and sales figures :(. Not sure about the Toyota
@@dylansorenson2784 the New Gr86 is nice and pulls good but. Id rather have inline 4 cly then the Boxer engine. Its just a way easier platform to maintain over time also for it not being my only Car and jot my Daily i dont need the rear Seats.
Great review. I am curious though? Which of the two would you choose. Mustang GT or the Miata? I known they are different cars and it is probably a bit of a long and complex answer.
sorry for the delayed answer!
yeah it is a bit complex. My main question would be do I need 2+2 seats, will the car be daily, do I need space for carrying stuff, potentially something that move fast
For me if any of those things are a hard yes then I would go for the Mustang.
E.g. I I cannot take the whole family with the MX5 so everytime there is a family occasion we have to take our other car which is a bummer.
For me both cars really great and I would happy with either but they do delivery emotions in different ways.
But then you have other aspects such as price, maintenance, consumables, fuel, insurance as well to consider all of (exept for service at least here in Sweden is almost a draw).
Also I have always found it funny and inaccurate when people say it's jailtime rightaway in a Mustang. That is not true it's not like one cannot drive to fast in an MX5 on public roads. Which leads me to another thing I and I belive I mentioned it in the video. Driving the MX5 on regular roads as such is no more fun than a Mustang, I would say the contrary, round abouts, on-ramps, exit ramps are fun in both. They both have their place where they shine so to speak and Mustangs not being able to take turns is BS. On with better(specially wider tires on the front) and some suspension tuning and they can take corners really well as well (just take a look at the Mach 1 time at VIR Road & track test) .
Short story long there is no simple answer :)
that was the answer I was looking for. Thanks. As a long term owner you gave a very good description for the Miata. Great review. Thankyou.@@Themazcorner
Great and thank you! Good luck with your choice 👍
Everything has its pros and cons. However, aside from the lack of HP, the car does exactly what it’s supposed to do. This is a toy IMO and not a grocery getter. So really not practical for a daily driver. But having a Miata with 300 whp would probably rearrange your perspective and enhance your overall experience.
Sorry for the delayed response.
Sure is not the car to get if practicality is important :D. Yeah a bit more grunt would have not hurt as such from a straight line performance. How much are you running in your car now?
I own 2 miatas 1997 and a new 2021 the miata is the answer depending on the question if you like reliability and descent gas mileage with good handling then your good to go ! I recommend the na as a timeless car that will actually out handle the new nd
thanks for the input! Both a very fun cars to drive, however I prefer the ND2 :D
What is the steering wheel and shifter? (Brand/where you got it from)
I have videos on both if you want more details.
The wheel is an OEM wheel modded by Meinlenkrad. The shifter knob is a Raceseng Stratose with Alcantara and custom orange color(discountinued)
Great Video man!
Thank you! Glad you liked it
Did the ring in this car with similar mods. Really capable car.
Thank you for the input! I would love to go but the 17h one way travel is a hard pill to swallow 🤣
What exhaust and diffuser is that please? I have the same one put on by a previous owner.
Ulter Sport
Installing a 1,5 way limited slip differential is a must for circuit driving. OS Giken LSD for example.
Would be fun to try one with a different diff. I am not that frequent on track so most likely overkill for me
I love your spoiler, do You have the link to buy it?
A video of it!
It's from a vendor called OEM things on Ebay
ruclips.net/video/XTPKhNT96wo/видео.html
Have you tuned the engine in any way? I an thinking to mount the 4-1 BBR exhaust and remap. Any suggestions? 😉
I have no tune om my car!
Getting a header with high flow cats/catless will for sure give some gain, not much though (10-15whp?). Specially not on a ND2.
What is guaranteed is that it will give much higher exhaust note :)
Very good judgement.
Thank you, glad you liked it
MX-5 NC 3 + PRHT : )
:P
What type of steering wheel is that? THX
It's an OEM wheel that I did send off to a company called Meinlenkrad. You also have company called Guardiandesign that many use as well.
I have videos of the wheel itself, here is one
ruclips.net/video/cC5qGLE8byg/видео.html
Where did you purchase the steering wheel gear knob and orange Tec dial ?
The wheel is from meinlenkrad, you can also check guardian design.
Gear knob is from Raceseng, it is the model called Stratose with Alcantara and custom orange color
The tachometer is from IL motorosport
I have videos of each part on my channel if you are interested
Hey Maz, I have that same car and after 2.5 yrs with this car. I'm not convinced that the 30AE mx5 is complete. I watch you modify the car and enjoy the content, but I think the 30AE has shortcomings. The power should have been increased to over 200HP. The exhaust should be redesigned or sourced to sound like an Alfa 4C and get rid of that ridiculous sound tube. The car needed to be lowered so it has an aggressive stance. Make the car tighter with less roll. It's a money pit to put after-market products. When it's all said and done, you'll have sunk hours and $$$ when you could have bought a better performance car off the lot.
I agree on that it is not complete and it sure does need mods at least in my opinion to give it more character. All cars for me are money pits lol. The only I have not modded yet is the ID3 :D.
With that said with the mods I have done it feel like a real nice package from the way I see it
@@Themazcorner You certainly personalized your 30AE and I like what you did. I'm just hesitant to go down that direction. Others tell me, I should keep it stock when I plan to sell it. Don't get me wrong it's a fun car but... If Dodge can put out a hellcat and Ford can put out a Cobra. They why can't Mazda put a Miata Godzilla, yes fire breathing tail pips, and leaf sharp dorsal fins. Fuck yeah! and a stink that's left behind when you smoke that Alpha 4C. I'm don't want to hear Zoom Zoom I want to hear rumble pop rumble. Oh! I've been looking at those Frankenstein Mini but after reviewing that short-range go-cart may not meet my needs. I'm looking. at you mustang mach e.
cheers
Well said.
What shifter is that from raceseng?
Raceseng Stratose with custom orange
@@Themazcorner was just on their website. I found it! Thank you very much! I have car #1065 30th AE!
great! It will take some time go get it! I would wait for black friday they usually have some deals then
you can check out my video of it: ruclips.net/video/T9573fmHkRw/видео.html
can you leave a link where they bought the muffler, bumper, spoiler etc for your mx5
I have videos of each individual part if you need more information
The exhaust and diffuser are from Ulter Sport:
www.ebay.com/itm/313652394490?hash=item490723b9fa:g:I5gAAOSwSwBgEjQO
The rear spoiler is from a seller called OEM things on eBay, there are lot ND owners that do have spoilers from them
Maz, can you give me the rim name and specs on your Miata, they’re dope
they are dope :D
Advan TC-4, 17x8 ET35 GTR Face. Color Umber Bronze
@@Themazcorner thanks 🙏🏻
Well when it comes to small cars the options are Mini Cooper, Miata, or smart car. I think Miata has more personality
As a driving machine in my opinion the MX5/Miata is a far more superior car compare to e.g. the Mini Cooper. I have not driven a Smart car but would think the same applies :)
@@Themazcorner I won’t go that far as the Mini Cooper s has turbskis I wish Mazda would release a turbski trim. For the ND2
@@robertcrosby9238 should have come with 250 from factory would have been perfect!
For sure. And when the mini is in the ship it just isn’t that fun to drive either😂
*shop
Are those badges hyperdipped?
Plastidipped and with glossifier on top have a video on it.
ruclips.net/video/tECdt7vrk-I/видео.html
Hyperdip looks good good though
The care is made according to the price it is sold.
Which exhaust is that?
Ulter Sport
@@Themazcorner thank you
NP, have separate videos of it and also the midpipe install I did
That part where you say "oh shit I'm in big trouble" that was me, owning the car only about 2 months I went in semi hard onto an on ramp with traction off and oh boy lost complete control!!! I almost T-boned an SUV on the right lane when I countersteered I almost then hit the wall to my left I somehow managed to recover but I was nano seconds from complete destruction of my new ND, its partly my fault for not knowing the car yet but I also feel the suspension has a delay & isn't linear which probably assisted in the loss of control. 😬
Damn that sure sounds like a “ohh shit” moment!
Glad to hear nothing as such happened apart from new underwear needed 😂
Yes the rear end steps out even not having much HP and one needs to be careful with the setup I have now it grips a lot but it’s a bit unpredictable to know when the oversteer is coming. I will try to work more with the wheel alignment for next season.
@@Themazcorner Yes - but from your first post - you were on a public highway and it certainly sounds like you were driving it pretty aggressively. Perhaps that had something to do with it?
@@nfexec1312 sorry not sure which post you are referring to.
My oh shit moments have mainly been on track. But it has happened on back-roads as well.
Usually people who put traction off gets into trouble. you paid so use it :)
@@ryujinmiatand770 my oh shit moments are more related having to high speed into corners :P
Also the TC in the ND/ND2 is from the stone age :D
Saying to someone to buy a mustang instead of a miata because the miata is unpractical as a daily driven car is so wrong on so many levels LOL
The miata is the perfect toy AND the perfect daily-car. You need a second car AFTER the miata, not the other way around!
You know what's the real issue the miata has? The price (in Europe in particular).
Although... Now it's 2022 and the GR86 is out and is better on the majority of aspects when compared to the miata (I die every time I say this btw). In fact I'm awaiting for mine to arrive.
sorry for the late reply! The MX5 as a daily would kill me(using it as a "daily" at the moment, waiting for my new EV to arrive).
The new BRZ/GT86 seems to be really great! All the fun more or less and the space to go with. The only thing is that they are coupes and not verts. But apart from that really hard to beat.
Amen on the price. The price-difference with the USA is huge, especially in The Netherlands. You can buy a new one in the US for the price of a 3-year old car here. And amen on the fact that now I only have the MX-5 (a 2016 ND 1.5), I need a second car! That's probably gonna be a superlight and nimble, used but well-cared for 15-year old-ish Suzuki Swift or Daihatsu Sirion2. We pay road-tax here depending on curb-weight, and our gas prices are among the world's highest (seriously). This for the oncoming rain-season that usually lasts about 7 to 8 months. We have no real winters anymore here. And for carrying anything bigger than a handbag!
@@rustinpieces I hear you man, I'm from Italy and we pay taxes based on the engine's power output (plus many more stuff in addition to that) with the gas prices quite high as well aot...
Actually the small miata is perfect for out market it's relatively cheap to maintain but the price remains extremely expensive for the amount of car you get!
9:41 the windshield is right next to your head. That's not good.
I use 360 cameras or very wide angle lenses so the there distortion with regards to distances
Supercharger will address the power issue…without making it too heavy…if Mazda made it more powerful, it would be 500lbs heavier and 10k more expensive..lol
yeah the SC route is nice. But I wrote to another post that I would eat gearboxes in rapid pace with the way I drive. Also having an SC in Sweden the car would not pass the yearly inspection :(
240-250 hp/170-180ft/lb would have been nice :D
Supercharger is only for the ND1, not the ND2.
I wish I could fit in the MX5. If I did I would own one. 6'2" 225 does not work in the MX5.
That is a shame!
I can imagine it is a bit tight fit, fortunately I am short so I have no issues with regards to fitment
Do you have the same issue in the ND2 with the telescoping steering column?
@@Themazcorner I'm going to buy the new GR86. I fit in that car.
@@deanmarr785 nice! it seems to be a really good package! How are the delivery times for those now?
@@Themazcorner Still not available. I'm going to wait until the car market cools off.
@@deanmarr785 sounds wise, in Sweden we won't be getting neither the Toyota or the Subaru I believe :(
Then slap in a supercharger to make it faster :)
the way I drive I would have to change the gearbox every month :D
But the idea is nice, now Fab9 has been able to crack the ND2 ECU for FI implementations (at least SC). Problem in Sweden one is not allowed to make such installements as it will not pass inspections --> Either you need to bribe someone or need to take it of once a year do the inspection and then install it all again.... :D
Supercharger is only out for the ND1, not the ND2.
Love your channel, and you drive like me….sometimes both hands are on the wheel, sometimes not! 😉
:D thank you 🙏 appreciate the feedback!
I have a hard time driving with both hands all the time 😎
I’m a writer. Nice, thorough review, though I believe you gave it the wrong title. “Miata is not always the answer” suggests what follows will be significantly less than positive; your review is mostly quite favorable, so your title doesn’t match up well with what follows. You need something along the lines of “Not always the answer, but pretty darn close”.
Yes, LITERALLY, saying “Miata is not always the answer” is, of course, technically correct, but that’s a title that more appropriately belongs in front of a largely negative review.
Hi Richard! thank you for the feedback, much appreciated.
I wrote that title to give a nod to everyone that says Miata is always the answer :D. But I do get you point fully in what you mean also the intention was to stir around a bit.
Jesus, this guy is the Debbie Downer of car reviewers.
Review *in my opinion* is good *etc*😁
Thank you 🙏 am I saying etc too often 😆
@@Themazcorner keep on working man, you will improve
I’ll do my best! Thanks 🙏
I purchased a 2018 MX-5 GT, black with the cherry top. The first few months were great and I eventually installed coilovers, sway bars, HKS exhaust, wheels, sticky tires, and a few other things. After each mod, I enjoyed the car more and more until, I didn't.
After a 1 year of ownership I began to dislike many things about my MX-5. Prior to, I had owned several Mustangs, Corvettes, and Porsche 911 (not all at once). The Miata has the best shifter feel of any car I have owned, seriously the best feel.
Paint & finish: The build quality is pathetic and within 1,000 miles I had deep rock chips on the front end, and no, protective film is not the answer. I called Mazda's corporate office and they beat around the bush about their finish. Mazda cut corners on the paint, plain and simple. The same can be said for the wheels which developed rock chips. Mind you, I tracked my Mustangs, Corvettes and did mountain runs in the 911 and chips would not appear at the level they did on the ND.
Interior: The entertainment system is horrible and the bluetooth worked half the time while the USB cable constantly unplugged that I eventually glued my cord to the outlet. The interior is of poor quality unless you pay extra and get the BBS package which puts an ND shy of $40,000. Even then, are plenty of cheap plastic parts throughout the cabin that scratch easily. The GT model comes with a "double layer" top to cope with road noise, except it doesn't. The Miata is a loud car and cruising at highway speeds is accompanied with annoying tire, road and wind noise. The factory Bose system even has an option to raise the volume to balance out the sounds. I didn't expect a quite cabin like those found in a Lexus LS460, but I also did not expect it be louder than my 90's Mustang convertible.
Space: I commuted to work alone and carried a backpack with a laptop and a lunch bag, daily. They both stayed in the trunk during the commute and for the most part the small cargo space was bearable. In one instance my wife and I commuted for a month and the Miata was our only car. It was a nightmare to say the least, two backpacks and two lunch bags, and rain coast was enough to make the trunk look full. If a Costco run was needed, the wife would have to stay home as the front seat was used for cargo room. This car is small even for a small guy (5.5) like myself. It is perfect for a single guy who buys microwave dinners.
Power: It is unfair to compare the MX-5 to any of my former cars, including my 440hp LS3 Corvette, so I'll compare it my wife's Lexus CT200h, basically a Prius with a "sport mode" that engages the full power the engine and electric motor. The MX-5 feels quick from 1st to 3rd gear but then it dies out, as does my wife's CT200H. There is no power to over pass another car on the highway and dropping a gear will only make the engine scream with minimal movement, as does my wife's CT200T. This car is slow by any standards, it's power is laughable for a 2016 model. My wife's car is slow as well, but the difference is the CT is built to be fuel effect yet feels like it would keep up with the ND. Those who say it is "plenty" fast are lying to themselves. This is why the older, outdated Honda S2000 is still king, power was adequate, something that can't be said about the ND.1 nor ND.2. It is slow, plain and simply and Mazda has no excuse for building an under powered car with 155hp (181 for ND).
Does it handle well? After addressing the body roll, yes, but so does every other modern car. This argument is a weak point for ND reviews because again, even a modern Toyota Camry handles well.
People who say, "just add" a turbo or a supercharger should consider this: an ND2 with some decent options is around $40,000. If you supercharge it, you can kiss the warranty good-bye and we know how weak the transmissions are. Say you purchased a new ND2 RF with the BBS and then add an Edelbrock supercharger and supporting mods, you are closer to $50,000 and will still lose to a 2000s Camaro, Cobra, Cayman at the drag strip, at a track meet or a mountain run and those guys will have paid way, way less for their car.
I do think Mazda spend a pretty penny advertising the MX-5 and many RUclips reviews were bias when the car hit the market. There was so much hype about the ND and I think that is what sold me on it, the reviews.
Conclusion: I ended up selling the Miata ND and getting a Porsche Cayman 987.1. The Cayman is actually functional and was cheaper than a new MX-5. It's 2.7L flat-6 does not feel slow and pulls hard through all the gears. The 987 handles a million times better in stock form than the ND.
That was ana excellent review. I also have a Miata ND Gt 2023 AND an Ct200h. The CT200H was really a great surprise, ... a great car. I like my Miata, but the total lack of storage in the cabin is really annoying, especially the joke cupholders and no reasonable storage bins or glove box. I miss my Corvette C6, but still enjoy my Corvette 1978, which has great storage space for a 2 seater.
Hopefully I’ll buy one of these as my second daily
It would be a really fun daily!
and, as usual not ONE WORD about sound levels with the top up. Can you converse? Must you shout to the other person if you are not alone? Can you speak on the phone via blue tooth hookup, or do you need to shout? I guess "no one cares", but I do, and everyone I know cares, for long road trips when you are not alone. For that matter, if I AM alone, I care--and everyone I know cares. AND NOT ONE WORD.
haha think of your blood pressure :D.
I cannot comment that much for a standard car as I have different wheel tires and exhaust! But tire and wind noise is a thing above 70-80 mph I would say.
You can have conversation with a passenger but above 40-60 you would need to speak louder with the passenger but no need for shouting.
Phone calls even with the top open at around 40-50 is very doable I would say but you would need to speak a bit louder to overcome the surrounding noises but you can hear the person on the phone quite clearly.
I would say the best is if you can take a test drive an experience yourself. Everyone reckognize sounds a bit differently and are more or less prone to fatigue etc.
Thank you for that, a beautiful car, for sure. @@Themazcorner
when a car "enthusiast" starts complaining about the infotainment system, I am out of their channel in a heartbeat
Good for you and thanks for the very valuable feedback
How in the F- will you compare a miata to a 5.0 mustang 😂😂, that's crazy...
Bro we know its your opinion 😂
Buy an SUV.
say what?
What steering wheel and shifter is that?
I have videos on both if you want more details.
The wheel is an OEM wheel modded by Meinlenkrad. The shifter knob is a Raceseng Stratose with Alcantara and custom orange color(discountinued)