Since 1989, the reasonably priced Mazda MX-5 Miata has been thrilling sports car fans with its featherweight rear-drive chassis and drop-top fun-in-the-sun persona. The Miata's organically responsive handling, mixed with a large dollop of 1960s British roadster, drew buyers by the tens of thousands. But it's no stretch to say that it was Mazda's brilliant five-speed manual transmission that created much of the trill. The stubby little shifter was so effortless that it moved with just a modest flick of the wrist. The second generation Miata in 1999 got one more gear for the 10th anniversary models; that six-speed remained optional (the five-speed was standard) well into the third generation and was equally great to use.
Miata's sports car formula has lasted for more than two decades, and it's no surprise. For 20-plus years Mazda has offered one of the best manual transmissions available on any car at that price.
Vehicle Overview
The two-seat Mazda MX-5 Miata roadster has been around for more than 20 years. Much has changed over the decades, including the disappearance of the Miata name from the car's exterior in 2006 as part of a redesign. The Miata name has since returned, but what hasn't changed is the formula: small, lightweight and affordable.
What New for 2012?
An electronic stability system is now standard, but there are no other significant changes.
Exterior :
Best Exterior features include :
- Manual-folding soft-top
- Smile-shaped grille
- Exhaust pipes flush with rear bumper
- Standard 16-inch wheels
- Optional 17-inch wheels
- Optional power-retractable hardtop
- Optional high-intensity-discharge headlights
Interior :
The MX-5 Miata is small, but the two-seat configuration provides more driver space than expected.
Best Interior features include:
- Standard air conditioning
- Standard leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Standard cloth upholstery
- Optional leather seats
- Optional heated seats
- Optional steering wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls
Under the Hood :
A 2.0-liter four-cylinder powers the MX-5 Miata with 158 horsepower when teamed with the optional six-speed automatic transmission. When equipped with the five- or six-speed manual, it produces 167 hp. The difference comes from a higher redline with the manual: 7,200 rpm rather than 6,700 rpm with the automatic.
Best Mechanical features include:
- Rear-wheel drive
- Intake runner tuned to provide a sporty sound
- Dual exhausts
Safety :
The MX-5 Miata has the mandated front airbags, and the passenger's airbag can be deactivated.
Best Safety features include:
- Standard side-impact airbags
- Standard antilock disc brakes
- Standard electronic stability system with traction control
Photos :
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