I disagree. I would not swap my NB for anything. I used to have an NA before I bought my NB new in 2003. I still miss my pop ups and the exterior door handles, but overall much prefer the NB. I never liked the shape of the NC, nor the interior, and the ND has too many systems that remove me as the driver and have the car drive me instead.
@@just_passing_through there’s no question that the NC is the most comfortable. The NB has the worst seats of them all too with terrible side blustering. The interior of the NC is quite a bit nicer and much bigger than the NB. I mean I fit comfortably in the NC, but I’m literally too big to even drive the NB
Just to give you who have never driven a Miata an idea of how much fun they are to drive. I own several Porsches including a 991.2 GT3 and a new 718 Spyder. I owned a NC PRHT Miata and sold it several years ago. I missed it so much I’m picking up my soft top ND2 next week. Looking forward to tossing it around on the street.
I definitely can't afford a new porsche but I have a 6 speed rwd 996.1 and a nb2 ls and I think I like my nb more. They are very different cars though and the high speed stability and smoothness of the 911 is awesome. Can't beat the nb2 for driving hard on the street though, I run out of room in the 911.
The NB will always be my favorite. They look very late 90s/FD RX-7 looking, had a lot of good upgrades over the NA while still being untampered by drivers aids, andddd they're the rarest.
The very last NAs had the same features as the NB in Japan, so 1.8, torsion LSD, bilsteins etc plus they still weighed less than NB. Oh and had pop up headlights, so that's my choice and why I have one 😁
As a former S2000 owner who regrets selling that car almost daily...the NB is as close to an S2000 as anything and a K24 swap makes it an S2000 killer.
@@BartSparrow123 I've never driven a K Miata, but I wanted to swap my NB for the longest time. Better than that though? A K24 MR2 Spyder. I mean, I've never driven one, but Spyders are the most fun cars I've driven. Part of that is that they're so cheap to run and it's not like you're wrecking a Porsche if something went bad, but I still think regardless they're more fun to drive than Miatas.
I own a Lotus Elise and a NC Miata and I gotta say that my bone stock NC is almost as fun as my Lotus in the canyons and even more fun than my old ap2 s2k. Of course the Elise is way more capable and is better on paper in every way but the NC is the car i can push to the limit and just communicates very well while driving through the canyons. The low to mid end "torque" feels better than the other generations and less frustrating to drive as well. It is a very underrated car for sure.
Frankly hard to go wrong with any of the generation Miatas. The FD’s, GTR, A80 may get all the glory but sheez having a lightweight car that you drive 7-8/10 daily doesn’t get enough appreciation.
What I like about my stock NA is how ridiculously bare-bones and raw the experience is. Driving it on public roads feels like I'm getting away with something. That said, I'd consider trading for an ND as a daily.
I have an NC2 PRHT and I freaking love it. I've driven NAs and couldn't rip the smile off my face regardless of how underpowered the 1.6 is. The charm is truly off the charts. I have driven the NBs and they are fantastic. You get a ton of that charm carried over from the NA with a bit more pep from the larger displacement. I love them. I bought my 2012 NC in 2014 and used it as a daily for 5 years and never got tired of it. I had a blast going to work every morning. You still get that charm with the big 'ol happy face on the NC2. Its just an amazing experience overall. About 2 years ago I got to drive the ND hoping it would be an improvement over the NC but, it wasn't quite there. The ND handles great, its really quick, revs high, great styling, interior is top notch......however, the electric steering is very numb compared to the hydraulic steering of the NC. When driving quickly around corners you kinda have to "hunt" for where the wheels are pointed (I could see you doing it too). The shifter is very under weighted and doesn't have any notchy mechanical feel like the previous generations. It kinda feels like those cheap racing sim shifters. Overall the ND is a great car but, Miata enthusiasts don't drive their Miatas because of HP numbers or nice interiors, etc. They drive Miatas because of the experience and the feel of driving. The steering feel and the shifting both contribute heavily to those categories. The ND just doesn't quite satisfy the way I wanted it to. Its the reason I chose to keep my NC rather than moving on to the ND.
NC owner here. This vid led me to choose the NC even though it gets a dissed by some Miata enthusiasts...idc. I had a NA with suspension and rigidity mods and loved it. Traded for a Boxster because I got power hungry...regrets from the get-go. My NC is at the tuners getting coil-overs, upgraded brakes, exhaust, tires and cams. I'm looking forward to checking it out. I think I made a good choice!
Enjoyed the review. I have a 99 NB. My Mothers bought this new. She was 78 years old. I became the caretaker of it in 2005. It is an Auto (she was 78 when she bought it and I am now 74).
I've a 2000 Miata that I restored to a fair point. Rebuilt engine, balanced and blueprinted. A fresh new black paint job with 4 coats of clear. Everything was taken apart to paint each piece individually. 18 inch and black powder coated wheels with new tires. Cross drilled and slotted rotors. New interior with sound deadening and temperature control insulation. Black and red seats, new top replacement, front and rear new taillights. Black powder coated rollbar. Front and rear view cameras. All led lighting in and out. So far I was told that this is the best Miata that anyone has seen. The car has no emblems whatsoever and I get asked often what kind of car it is. I do like the newer Miatas, but in my personal opinion the 2000 has a sleeker curvy body style. The ground effects all around are stock and flow with the curves of the body. There is no chrome or anything with color in the outside other than the red rear taillights and front amber.
That NC is hot, also the pricing makes sense for now. Great deal for a great driving car and will sadly always be the overshadowed sibling, much like the R33 because it was more luxurious and "fat"
people hate on the R33 and im not sure why. its actually the best chasis to make big power on because you can fit the widest tires compared to the R32 and R34. also the NC has the best suspension. easily the best track car out of the bunch and you can literally put what ever engine/drivetrain you can dream of in it. theres just so much room.
@@tommynobaka Hey man! I follow you on IG, and love the NC build. But how does it hold up as a daily? I was looking at an NC grand touring hardtop, 59K for $18.5. It's either that, or an FRS/BRZ haha.
@@silverwave010 must be a different person because I don't own an NC 🤣 I have an EP3 and E60. I've never driven a Miata or brz so I can't say. If you need the space I'd say got Toyobaru twins but get the newer chassis if you can afford it for the torque unless you plan on tuning the engine on the old chassis. NC for pure sports car enjoyment. Insurance is probably more expensive though
@@tommynobaka LOL Whoops, sorry man, I mistook you for the owner of the NC, his PFP was something similar haha. But I've driven all three, and the Toybaru twins are definitely a better daily. So I'll keep looking around for them! E36s or E46s would be awesome tho haha. EP3s are slept on as well
I've also driven all 4 generations and I fully agree with your thoughts on how the NC feels to drive. In terms of street performance, my NC is almost identical to my friends ND2, but it retains that fun, old school, analog feeling in the driving experience. My only problem with the NA/NB is that my legs don't fit since my knees are touching the steering wheel the whole time. Also, my only problems with the ND was the lack of steering feel, and the shifter feel is much looser at least in stock form And in this market, NA's and NB's (that would've been 4-5k) are going for the same price that I paid for my 1 owner, 27k mile NC back in 2018. (Also, NC's are very capable and the power is enough to keep up with much faster cars on mountain roads, **allegedly** of course)
Comparing four stock examples would have given a neutral comparison. Varying levels of modification muddy the waters quite considerably. Nevertheless, an interesting comparison. I own an ND2 and have not driven any other MX5s so don’t have any comparisons to make. All I know is that my car is fantastic fun to drive. I’m sure the other versions are as well
I'd be interested in how a stock NC compares to a stock ND in similar trim levels, I think most people will be deciding between a brand new car vs saving money and getting the older generation. At least that is the position I am in. I can get an NC, which is just old enough to be cheap to buy but new enough to still be in great shape with a lot of cars out that haven't been modified at all.
The one thing I lack in my ‘92 NA is that 6th-gear. It’s what makes all subsequent generations easier daily-driver cars. (And I can still lose anything but another Miata in tight corners…) Great comparative video. Interesting to read the comments of other generation owners too.
S2k is like a "GT3" Miata. Worse steering feel, but basically better in everything else. That said, NCs are way cheaper, more playful than the slightly more knife edged s2k and have a lot of potential with mods. Sauce: drove both and own the NCs dorito brother
@@PeterPangea stock form even a NB is better than an NC , but with little modifications It will trash the NB and hold its own against the s2000, i also driven both, s2000 may be faster in high speed corner but the NC is more agile in mid to low cornering and has better breakes also weight less. But i agree in stock form It doesnt stand a chance against the s2000, It comes with a more track oriented set up from factory.
That NC is honestly becoming favourite model. I'm 6 foot 2 mostly leg so the NB just doesn't work and the Na is not a comfortable experience. Having a 2.0 motor would just make it so much nicer on mountain roads. The particular model in the video is in my opinion done perfectly, absolutely everything done how I would if I had the money lol.
I'm 6'3 and own an NB. I'd say the car size is honestly fine for the majority of people. I have to straddle the steering wheel but a smaller aftermarket one would probably sort that. My dad can also fit in it and drive it and he's 6'5, so I dont honestly think the inside is really that small if you get used to it.
I've always liked the looks of the first two generations of the MX-5. It is the clean simplicity of their designs, both inside and out, that appeals to me. Though I have read of some owners actually preferring the 1.6L in the NA, were I shopping for one of these cars I suspect that I'd want to make sure I had a chance to drive both the NA and the NB with the 1.8L engine.
I have both a 1.6L & 1.8L NA. If you held a gun to my head and made me choose, I'd take the 1.8 over the 1.6 - but there isn't as much in it as you'd think.
@@TheFracturedfuture It's funny because the NC is my least favorite of the bunch when it comes to how these cars look. Given that design is such a subjective thing, I can understand how others might feel differently. Different strokes for different folks certainly holds true when it comes to cars.
@@TheFracturedfuture There are multiple benefits to the long lifespan of the Miata resulting in well over a million of these cars being made (and still counting). Most notably, this ensures that people will always have access to great sports cars for bargain prices for as long as the ICE remains viable. Also, by offering multiple variations over the years, Mazda has made something for everyone who buys into the small, lightweight sports car ethos. Between the NA, NB, NC, & ND models, most fans are bound to find something to their liking or at least a base to work with. This also helps to create a great community of enthusiasts.
I find this review to be pretty accurate and very honest. I currently own a 08 NC1 w Goodwin header, helmholtz and super Q muff. Progress sways F/R and Dynotronics map. Still stock 4 x4 look but the Zeta Miesters are you next. I’m going to 8” rims with 225’s.. eventually I’m thinking Kraftwerks supercharger.. I agree with your comments. I’ve driven 2 NA’s owned one of them, but haven’t driven the ND… yet. The NA 97 1.8 I had was a screaming laugh around corners. You could throw it around without worrying about losing it. My Three Rx7’s had a point when they just left the road. For me the NC is the highest embodiment of what Mazda was after (w aftermarket stuff of course) ..
The ND transmission whoas scared me into a NC, but I couldn't be happier. 5-lug wheels, 7.5k redline, hydraulic steering, and the 2.0 MZR has a fairly high power ceiling with FI. I also think it's the best sounding Miata. The weight is overstated, but I enjoy the boat jokes.
I'm in the same (boat) as you. I owned an ND when they came out and drove it for 15k miles and enjoyed it. But it was going out of warranty and still oweing money on it I didn't want to pay out of pocket for a trans which would blow at some point. I sold it had an NB2 for a little while and got into an NC1 cheaper than the NB2 and absolutely love it.
Got a special edition NB a few years ago. Loved it so much I had to get a 2016 ND1, right before they dropped the RF...wish I would have waited as I think they look so sick plus the added 30-40hp...(and it'd be nice to have the backup camera). LOVE MY MIATA. It's my daily. I put 30K+ miles on in 2020. 48 states. Zero issues. 👌
Bruh. I bought a 2005 Mazdaspeed Miata because of your Honda S2000 vids (couldn't afford an s2000 at the time). Last week, I bought an ND2 Miata RF because of all your ND Miata comparison vids. And then you publish this. Now I need to get a bigger garage. All the Miatas is the answer.
Just bought an NA with the 1.6L and i love it it revs all the way happy and it has a feel i dont think any other car can give ever. Im the Happiest ever waiting to get an ND2 or ND3 next year after i test drive the New Z. Cause that’s the only thing stopping me right now.
I've owned my 2002 NB for fifteen years. Four years ago I bought a 2006 NC to replace it, the NB then being eighteen years old and in need of some maintenance. But I found myself choosing to drive the NB instead and sold the NC some months later. On the open road, the NC is the better car, but for suburban driving the NB just communicates better. Drive it at 10mph around a carpark, and it tells you exactly where its front wheels are. Hoon into an intersection a little too fast, squeeze the brakes, and it will change direction in an instant. I've now replaced the clutch, the brakes and the cooling system, and will drive the NB until one or other of us dies. Incidentally, I test drove a 2014 Toyota 86 and never have I been more disappointed. It has a great chassis, but as I exited the intersection, I had no idea in which direction the front wheels were pointed. The power steering masked all feel. It was like taking a shower in a raincoat, if you know what I mean.
Never driven previous generation Miata, but I'm extremely happy with my ND2 club. Done a few mods, the most important is the Eibach lowering springs (with the original Bilstein dampers) and new wheel alignment (Flying Miata recommended). That really transformed the car, it's much more planted and have quicker corner turn in. Also consider changing the exhaust/muffler if you want a beefier engine sound (I have the Cobalt muffler which is pretty good). Other than that I think the car is perfect for road use.
@@deej628 It's the Eibach PRO-KIT lowering springs, which is the same as Mazda offers as accessory on their site (at least in Sweden). I bought and installed them in a Mazda shop. They lower the car about 2 cm all around, which improves the look quite a bit (besides the improved handling). Ride comfort basically stays the same.
My only complain on my ownership on the ND2 is the steering feel. The electric steering feel needs quite a bit of getting used to before you are in tune with it. One day of drifting on an ice lake helped me figure the steering feedback. It is subtle but actually gives good information
Idk if you've done it, but after I lowered my ND2, I had it aligned to Flyin Miata specs. It changes the steering feel a a lot. The biggest, immediately noticeable difference was the huge reduction in the dead spot in the middle of the steering. But I also drove my brother's Lexus GX 460 (SUV) with, I believe, hydraulic steering, and it felt noticeably good compared to my last few electric powered steering sports cars. I'm just saying that alignment can change your steering feel by quite a bit in your Miata. Mine felt completely different when I arrived at the alignment shop and when I left.
@@HotCarl73 yes mine is custom aligned. I used to have a Speed3 and the steering feel in that is sensational. I guess it is all about getting used to the new feel
@@Driver67 The Mazda 3 of that era really had superb steering feel, not as 'tight' and heavy as new EPS cars like the ND, but wayyy more information through the wheel. Surprising for what's meant to be an economy car!
I think the whole "chick car" argument against the miata is even more nonsensical now. Here in Canada at least all the ladies drive around in wranglers and massive suvs/trucks. Literally all miata owners I see are old grandpas.
That’s because we’ve all owned and driven dozens to hundreds of cars and know what matters! And there is great freedom in being completely indifferent to what anyone else thinks 😂
I'm 67 and I have a nice red 98 NB.At least I can get in and out of it easily.The same can't be said for younger mechanics and tyre guys who literally fall out of it onto the ground.😂
For a long time that "chick car" argument kept prices so low. I've had 2 at bargain prices and loved them both. I have a Boxster S now and love it but there are aspects of the Miata that I still miss.
As part of a Miata Club and owner of 2000 NB (after a '90 NA) one option on mine that really stiffens it is the Hard Dog frame mounted roll bar. Other club members use some fancy fold-up head-ache protection but still experience a lot of body flex.
@@scottcolpitts8521 no it doesn't. The s2000 is perfectly weight distributed and even has a front mind engine layout where the entire engine is behind the front wheels... don't even argue against an NC the s2000 is better in literally every way and came out 6 years earlier.
I've a special edition NC finished in Spirited Green to match the GT race car they produced. I'd say coil overs are a must and they significantly tighten up the control in the cornering ability which is already great. My plan is now to see a tuning specialist here in the UK and am looking for a naturally aspirated tune to take it to 200bhp although it can go up to 225 or higher with turbo and supercharging options. Always felt it could do with more power and I think 200bhp is plenty.
Turbo 1.8 na is the best option from my experience, better steering then the nb, and all other chassis feel diffrences are negligible with little changes Great review, loved seeing all of them back to back 👍🏻😁
I owned a 68 MGB in the late 1970's. I was in my early 20's then and I didn't have much money. My MG wasn't in very good condition. I still loved driving it. I was a young auto repair tech then. Move ahead to the 1990's. I remember when the first Miata's came out. I remember how I felt the first time that I drove one that came into my shop for maintenance. I couldn't stop smiling as I road tested it. I was in heaven! Today I own a 2023 Mazda MX-5 GT. I am now 66 years old . I smile just thinking about driving my Mazda. I have never driven an MX-5 that I didn't like. I have driven every generation of them.
I have a 2000 MX5 Base 5 speed I bought from my neighbor. It had been completely serviced before she parked it 5 years ago. Tires, battery, a lot cleaning and 4 spark plugs later it is a blast. Mazda did a great job with these roadsters.
I just upgraded my 2011 PRHT GT that had upgraded suspension (progress sway bars & springs) and a ECUTek Tune to a 2022 GS-P with sport package. The new KPC system on the 2022 does a great job of keeping the car flatter in the corners.
2019 RF ND2: While it would be good to have the 360 degree view of a soft top it wasn't that important to me. I find that the retractable fastback to be better looking. I really like the design and operation of the roof. When I'm facing forward in the driver's seat, with the top down, it seems as open as a soft top. I wanted the extra horsepower, and the telescoping steering wheel. I figured the soft top would deteriorate sooner. My other reasoning for buying the RF model was our weather. We live in CA in a place that has 4 to 6 weeks of over 100 degrees each summer. Winters can drop into the 20's but 40 is more common. I figured I would want the insulation of the hard top during the hottest days when the AC might not handle 112 degrees. It's been three weeks since we purchased the car and I'm thrilled with it.
This a really comprehensive review. Thanks. I have a 65,000 mile NB and love it. Really well built, super reliable and FUN. But I'm getting older and would like a bit more refinement so after reading countless ND reviews I was ready to pull the trigger on a very slightly used '20 ND2 soft top. Until I drove it. Within seconds with the top up, I was wondering where all the noise was coming from. I thought the passenger window was down or the door was open. I checked everything but nothing was amiss. Lowering the top helped but the car is obviously pretty much devoid of insulation. I know it's a convertible sports car, blah, blah, blah but it really feels cheap and to me, sullies an otherwise great car. The handling, engine, transmission and even the ride quality are excellent but unless you're on the track, you're not wringing it out in every gear ALL the time. I'd like to be able to carry on a conversation without yelling. I'm now considering an NC but I'm also looking at a Boxster to get a more refined package. I don't expect a Miata to be at the same level as Porsche but would a little insulation have really hurt the Miata's real world performance?
My favorite for appearence is the ND. Next is the NB for overall best Miata. The NA is a classic and I want one. I have a NB 2002 Special Edition Titanium Gray
Had my 91 for 15 yrs nearly 400k km on the clock just keeps going, added coilovers, headers, Michelins. new bushings and a megasqirt (still na) bloody awesome never sell it.......great video thanks...
I own an NC PRHT. The first Miata I ever sat in. I will not say any one model is better than the next. But I will say you will enjoy any model you get. Incredible cars. BTW PRHT > Pop up head lights. 😎
Very professional review and comments. Thanks! Will pick up my ND2 in 10 days, can’t wait for it !!! Cheers from Luxembourg with plenty of curvy roads with non-existing holes, potholes or bumps 😁 An MX-5 dreamland.
A true test of stock models would have been better. I’ve owned NA with Supercharger, NB with supercharger, Stock NC. Now I’ve got the 2022 BRZ. My current is the best😁
I personally like the rawness of the NA Miata and in 2016 when I was shopping around it was hard for me to justify paying extra for the NC or ND when I could get a mint low mileage NA for $7k. But nowadays my choice would be a little more difficult.
@@cokeycola9514 Used car prices are crazy, and the NA is old enough so the price is going up on them. Clean unmodified examples are getting harder to find and enthusiasts are really the only ones looking at them since they will usually need work (seals, rubber, roofs, etc). Locally a new ND is 35k to 40k (Canadian) and an NA can be $20k or more. Buying an NC is cheaper then an NA, $15k or under.
Coming from the Mitsubishi side of the equation, I can say Miatas are just a whole class all their own. Even compared to the S2K, you get the experience of seeing the progression through the generations, whereas other models from other Marques stop at 1 or 2 gens. It's more akin to an Eclipse - though we all know that story is one of regression, whereas Miatas have progressed through the iterations. The only solid complaint I have with the Miata is its size. Not the lightweight nor compact aspect of it, but the actual feel of sitting in it all day. Again, coming from what one might consider "touring" vehicles (Evos, Eclipses), a Miata is set up like a proper racecar - where even seating position is limited to a certain angle and distance from the steering wheel. This argument is all about the "daily-driving" comfort of being in a Miata: one for the young, and not necessarily for those who have "progressed" in age. For that reason, the wife squarely keeps the ND2 for weekend drives. While I fly wingman in one of the FTOs :)
Like the difference between the ND1 and ND2, the NC2 also had an upgraded engine with forged internals and higher redline. Try to get your hands on the NC2 for future comparos
Great video, I've driven every generation of Miata except for the ND2/RF2 but yes the ND1/RF1 gen) and overall my favorite one is still the NC. I do think it's still very enjoyable to drive at low speeds, but I can put the top down (power hard top) which of course makes it fun all the time lol. Also I think an NC with mods compares very well with the S2k. I think it's pretty evident that you do too since you mentioned it lol. The S2k engine is an absolute gem of a thing, but I like the flexibility of the NC engine at low speeds. Also I've said for a long time that the Miata lineage is fun on the track but they TRULY shine on a nice windy road! They can be magical 👌
Love what you said about pushing the NA Miata to the max makes you ready for the others. It's not a hard thing to achieve (maybe difficult in canyons where the lower-end result is you dying from a 400' plunge), but the car really does put things into perspective from a performance racing stand point.
Have owned a NA, two NC. Driven All. Miata. Miata is always the answer every one of them's fun no such thing as the best, it just happens to be the one you are driving right now have fun.
Owner of a 1.8 l n a 5-speed and an nc1 6-speed manual. They are both a joy to drive but without a doubt the NC feels like the more sophisticated sports car. Love the review and it's spot on
I have driven every generation of MX-5. Being at automotive tech has some perks. I absolutely LOVE to drive my 04 NB. If I ever decide to upgrade, the ND will be my choice. Or NE by that time. I'm in NO hurry to get rid of my NB!
If you sort the suspension on the ND2, it honestly might be the perfect canyon car. I've got some relatively softly sprung (575lb/275lb i.e. ~10kg/5kg...track-soft, not road-soft, haha) MCS 2Ws and Karcepts front and rear bars on mine, and run lightweight 16x7.5 wheels on 205/45s for the shorter gearing. With the right settings, it's comfier than stock on rough surfaces, while being much more confident in every way--and even on full soft in the front, it gives you a bit more steering feel than stock. As someone who has owned an AP2 and an FD, this car is every bit as fun on backroads, if not more fun on average than anything I've owned/driven. An absolute golden retriever of a car for sure.
@@noncog1 I've got the gen 2 kit from Karcepts. The amount of adjustment from a click perspective is great (even 14 clicks would honestly be perfectly fine), but it seems like functionally the chassis only likes a small range on the lower end of clicks from full soft. I feel like it'd be ideal if they gave you 16 clicks of compression adjustment between what is full soft, and the equivalent of say, 8-10 clicks or so, on the current compression setup. Interestingly, rebound seems to give you a lot more usable granularity for fine-tuning. Essentially you'd never really need to go stiffer front or rear than a few clicks on the compression side, so giving that range some more granular adjustment would make them perfect. For example, I really wish I had a setting between 3 and 4 clicks for compression in the rear for street driving--3 is a bit vague, and 4 is too stiff for a lot of public surfaces. But like I said, overall they're absolutely phenomenal dampers, and I could definitely recommend them to anyone considering taking the leap.
Some people would prefer the NC and ND, and I don't blame them! More modern amenities, stiffer chassis, more power stock and can be built up more, and interior quality is nicer. But I'll say this, I love stock Miata's, and nothing can give the experience of a 1990-2005, but especially not the 1990-1993. The car feels perfectly sketchy. What do I mean? It's a little loose, yet it's tight and direct. It feels out of control and always ready to go. You feel like it's both tittering on the edge and perfectly aligned. That's what makes the first generation, and the first models, the NA6, so thrilling. The car doesn't have anything to help you, and the car itself is capable of taking corners, but each corner feels like a roller coaster even at fairly tame speeds. Attack it well, and you feel like the Miata can handle it, but also like you have a screw loose because the car feels insane! I love the lack of power steering, it makes the car more direct, more feedback, you can even tell the road conditions through the wheel vibrations. I like that, I prefer no power steering, as only in parking lots do you miss it in a car this light. It's perfectly weighted. Shifter in any Mazda is fantastic. I drive a Del Sol right now, but I owned a 1990 and 1991 Miata, and plan within the week to buy a 1992 (it's been having to be worked on). A Honda Shifter feels good, especially with a short throw, but a rebuilt (not even short shifter though the brass piece helps) 1990-2005 shifter? It's amazing. I would take it over Honda's every day. A modern car may give you a nicer interior stock, you can make an NA or NB more luxurious. Quilted leather, different gauges, etc. You can get much better handling out of those newer cars too. But you can't get the old school fun and sketch that the NA and NB to a lesser extent has. I would argue those two generations are the best to own, not because the NC is bad (It's a deal!) or that the ND isn't worth it (it is expensive though, you can buy a perfect survivor NA for half the price of a base model ND off the lot or for the price of a pre-owned ND of any type), but that the NA and NB are just amazing. I love the classic roadster styling of the NA, it feels like what an MG MGB should have been if it had survived into the 90's. But with the reliability you want out of a Japanese car. It's simple to fix. It's lovely to drive. I adore these cars.
I am the original owner of a 2011 nc2. After over 10 years of ownership, I am still waiting to find something to put beside it in the garage that would be almost, or just as fun. Current gr86 or future gr corolla might do. But if anyone is trying to decide which miata, check out current prices for nc's. 2009 - 2015 have an updated motor with forged crank and rods, and also rpm up to 7500. I feel like these cars are still slept on with the s2000 taking all the price increase glory.
I just bought a 2015 GT with 40,000 miles, handles great, the steering is tight. Only downside is that it is an automatic. Was kind of a quick buy. Otherwise a sweet car.
Miata is always the answer - I agree to 100%😎👍👍👍 Best little reardrive sports car that you can afford! And it's so much fun to drive! I had an mx5 NB in 2010... Best car I'd ever had! It was so much fun to drive! ... and affordable!
i drift an nc roadster and can confidently say it is the most suitible mx5 for drifting as mine has some basic cat track cams and a tune suspension cable throttle conversion and 4-1 decat header to full decat system and a few angle mods and i am able to keep up with cars along the lines of street spec jzx100s,180sx,and altezza with no issues
basically get the generation of miata you want, and if needed modify it to your preferences. I love that the aftermarket support is huge and you can make your miata look feel and do whatever you want it to be.
IMO, this video is a prerequisite for my Miata shopping. Never a fan of the NC look, but your review has really opened my mind about this model. And add my thumb's up for an S2000 comparison. Owned a stock 2005 for three years as my daily driver, and miss it terribly.
Zygrene you ever come down to Atlanta, I have an ND that is fully road inspired in modifications. I'm a mechanic with mechanical engineering background but doing Sushi for a living. I've built drag cars, autocross cars, and track cars and have years of experience in different styles of racing. I have a very nice ND that is dialed in perfectly for any occasion. We should talk.
My NB is an 01 model and the same color as Tiffany's car. Best car I've ever had. Fun to drive every time and reliable for use as my daily driver. I plan to keep it for awhile longer. PS: Would have been neat to test the Fiat 124 Spyder too, since it's the Miata chassis with the turbo engine and nice bodywork.
Liked your review. I have a 10AE NB. I like it. I recentl;y switched to a new BRZ. I also recently drove a 30th anniversary Miata . The BRZ and 2019 Miata are very similar in engine performance.
Nice comparison. I do wish they'd all been unmodified so you'd get a real "apples-to-apples" comparison. Also, since you felt that NC was so well set up, it might be nice to know all the specific mods that your friend did. BTW, I owned a 1999 NB as a daily driver and autocross/track car for about 8 years and _really_ enjoyed it!
The NC Miata is (as far as I can tell) hands down the best dollar for dollar sports car available on the used market right now. However, if there ends up being too many UA-cam videos pointing out the fact that it's able to hold its own against S2000s and NDs, that could change quick. 🙂
Exactly and prices are going up lately, some people is starting to catch on the NC... A car that does sub 8 min in nurburgreen with subtle modifications, its a hidden gem, im glad i bought It when they were cheaper and its a keeper! Its proben to be more stable than the ND on the rear with its multi link suspensión... Also plenty of aftermarket options to make It faster power and handling wise.
Yup. It was the C4 Vette for a long time but the prices seem to be going way high for late model variants of it (you can get a great deal on an '84 to '86 though, but they will be rough). NC wasn't popular (and still isn't), and is only now catching on with people. Plus they are new enough that parts are easy to find, and they tend to be in good shape without a ton of miles on them.
Hi Dabinche! Owner of the ND in this video. Just wanted to say thanks for all your Miata content, it’s been very helpful for DIY maintenance and the few mods I’ve done on mine!
I love the classic chrome mirror the owner added to the NA. Would've loved to see how the turbocharged Mazdaspeed version would've faired in this comparison. They are great rides, but of the four, the Nc would be my choice. I'm 6'3", and my knees wrap around the steering wheel on the NA and NB. The ND is also smaller than the NC, but I haven't driven one.
I'll be back at the end of the video but before it even starts I've had a 93 (yup the much maligned 1.6l) fully stock for about six months and I don't see how later models could improve on it. Obviously a 200hp engine would help, but I can pretty much wring the thing out everywhere I go. I've had cars with 3 to 4 times the power but it's not really something I can use 80 percent of the time. Oh and it's a joy to work on. Very simple with plenty of room in the engine bay and I don't have to take off a bunch of plastic covers to work on it. ...maybe one gripe...it needs a 6th gear or a taller final. I'm at 4k when driving 70. It's not a highway bomber but I guess it wasn't designed to be though. Yes, same thing I thought, so easy to drive. The harder you push it the more it grips.
Thanks for all your hard work putting this comparative review together. Thing is, including modified examples kinda negates the comparison. Are the differences due to version differences? Or due to mods?? It’s impossible to know. This was fun to watch, but as a comparative test, I’m afraid the results are compromised.
Out of the NA and NB generations I prefer the NA. The platforms are actually identical underneath but the NB2 got sport breaks VVT 1.8 and a lot of factory bracing. Most of that is fairly easily addressed on an NA but the NA really does feel like a true classic car, whereas the NB defiantly doesn't feel special in that way.
The newest Miata is by far the best one, the NC is by far the most comfortable as a daily, the NA is the most iconic, and the NB is my personal fav.
NB SE for the win!
You summed that up very nicely. I have an nc and simply cannot fit into any other except the ND. Never been in the other two :(
I disagree. I would not swap my NB for anything. I used to have an NA before I bought my NB new in 2003. I still miss my pop ups and the exterior door handles, but overall much prefer the NB. I never liked the shape of the NC, nor the interior, and the ND has too many systems that remove me as the driver and have the car drive me instead.
@@just_passing_through there’s no question that the NC is the most comfortable. The NB has the worst seats of them all too with terrible side blustering. The interior of the NC is quite a bit nicer and much bigger than the NB. I mean I fit comfortably in the NC, but I’m literally too big to even drive the NB
@@Dyltheboy the nd is the smallest
Just to give you who have never driven a Miata an idea of how much fun they are to drive. I own several Porsches including a 991.2 GT3 and a new 718 Spyder. I owned a NC PRHT Miata and sold it several years ago. I missed it so much I’m picking up my soft top ND2 next week. Looking forward to tossing it around on the street.
Yup! I also had an NB sold it and bought a 911 4S.
Never stopped missing my Miata. Will be getting an ND🤣 edited.
How tf?
@@sp3cialed1 not sure…haven’t evaluated weight differentials yet
@@mickywes3733 I mean how common ya'll just own Porsches
I definitely can't afford a new porsche but I have a 6 speed rwd 996.1 and a nb2 ls and I think I like my nb more. They are very different cars though and the high speed stability and smoothness of the 911 is awesome. Can't beat the nb2 for driving hard on the street though, I run out of room in the 911.
The NB will always be my favorite. They look very late 90s/FD RX-7 looking, had a lot of good upgrades over the NA while still being untampered by drivers aids, andddd they're the rarest.
The very last NAs had the same features as the NB in Japan, so 1.8, torsion LSD, bilsteins etc plus they still weighed less than NB. Oh and had pop up headlights, so that's my choice and why I have one 😁
Tbh I see NCs the least where I live.. I see NBs and NAs all the time
As a former S2000 owner who regrets selling that car almost daily...the NB is as close to an S2000 as anything and a K24 swap makes it an S2000 killer.
@@BartSparrow123 I've never driven a K Miata, but I wanted to swap my NB for the longest time. Better than that though? A K24 MR2 Spyder. I mean, I've never driven one, but Spyders are the most fun cars I've driven. Part of that is that they're so cheap to run and it's not like you're wrecking a Porsche if something went bad, but I still think regardless they're more fun to drive than Miatas.
I own a Lotus Elise and a NC Miata and I gotta say that my bone stock NC is almost as fun as my Lotus in the canyons and even more fun than my old ap2 s2k. Of course the Elise is way more capable and is better on paper in every way but the NC is the car i can push to the limit and just communicates very well while driving through the canyons. The low to mid end "torque" feels better than the other generations and less frustrating to drive as well. It is a very underrated car for sure.
can not agree more!
MX 5 body was Elan inspired, btw.
I couldn't look cool getting out of an elise when I was thirty - no chance now
people helping me up from the pavement is a bad look
@@frombrum Dreadful shame. Both stunning motors with a distinct personality.
Miata more fun than a s2k....... Said no one ever
Frankly hard to go wrong with any of the generation Miatas. The FD’s, GTR, A80 may get all the glory but sheez having a lightweight car that you drive 7-8/10 daily doesn’t get enough appreciation.
What appreciation? Its slow and boreing.
@@jaydems2k10 237 hp talking lmao
@@freddarau so you are a 90hp miata that cant even pass a prius lol.
@JAYDEM S2K I own e92 m3, and a 72mm turboed miata. So try 350 for the bimmer and 310 for the miata
@JAYDEM S2K no hate tho s2ks are great cars.
What I like about my stock NA is how ridiculously bare-bones and raw the experience is. Driving it on public roads feels like I'm getting away with something. That said, I'd consider trading for an ND as a daily.
@ Nicholas DeLessio I also own an NA, it's very special to drive. If you can help it, never sell it... Much love from South Africa
I have an NC2 PRHT and I freaking love it. I've driven NAs and couldn't rip the smile off my face regardless of how underpowered the 1.6 is. The charm is truly off the charts. I have driven the NBs and they are fantastic. You get a ton of that charm carried over from the NA with a bit more pep from the larger displacement. I love them. I bought my 2012 NC in 2014 and used it as a daily for 5 years and never got tired of it. I had a blast going to work every morning. You still get that charm with the big 'ol happy face on the NC2. Its just an amazing experience overall. About 2 years ago I got to drive the ND hoping it would be an improvement over the NC but, it wasn't quite there. The ND handles great, its really quick, revs high, great styling, interior is top notch......however, the electric steering is very numb compared to the hydraulic steering of the NC. When driving quickly around corners you kinda have to "hunt" for where the wheels are pointed (I could see you doing it too). The shifter is very under weighted and doesn't have any notchy mechanical feel like the previous generations. It kinda feels like those cheap racing sim shifters. Overall the ND is a great car but, Miata enthusiasts don't drive their Miatas because of HP numbers or nice interiors, etc. They drive Miatas because of the experience and the feel of driving. The steering feel and the shifting both contribute heavily to those categories. The ND just doesn't quite satisfy the way I wanted it to. Its the reason I chose to keep my NC rather than moving on to the ND.
NC owner here. This vid led me to choose the NC even though it gets a dissed by some Miata enthusiasts...idc. I had a NA with suspension and rigidity mods and loved it. Traded for a Boxster because I got power hungry...regrets from the get-go. My NC is at the tuners getting coil-overs, upgraded brakes, exhaust, tires and cams. I'm looking forward to checking it out. I think I made a good choice!
Enjoyed the review. I have a 99 NB. My Mothers bought this new. She was 78 years old. I became the caretaker of it in 2005. It is an Auto (she was 78 when she bought it and I am now 74).
I've a 2000 Miata that I restored to a fair point. Rebuilt engine, balanced and blueprinted. A fresh new black paint job with 4 coats of clear. Everything was taken apart to paint each piece individually. 18 inch and black powder coated wheels with new tires. Cross drilled and slotted rotors. New interior with sound deadening and temperature control insulation. Black and red seats, new top replacement, front and rear new taillights. Black powder coated rollbar. Front and rear view cameras. All led lighting in and out.
So far I was told that this is the best Miata that anyone has seen. The car has no emblems whatsoever and I get asked often what kind of car it is.
I do like the newer Miatas, but in my personal opinion the 2000 has a sleeker curvy body style. The ground effects all around are stock and flow with the curves of the body. There is no chrome or anything with color in the outside other than the red rear taillights and front amber.
That NC is hot, also the pricing makes sense for now. Great deal for a great driving car and will sadly always be the overshadowed sibling, much like the R33 because it was more luxurious and "fat"
people hate on the R33 and im not sure why. its actually the best chasis to make big power on because you can fit the widest tires compared to the R32 and R34. also the NC has the best suspension. easily the best track car out of the bunch and you can literally put what ever engine/drivetrain you can dream of in it. theres just so much room.
@@fatalgaming6068 i agree with everything you said. Great platforms for mods. Keep them overshadowed so they stay cheap for me to buy and build 🤣
@@tommynobaka Hey man! I follow you on IG, and love the NC build. But how does it hold up as a daily? I was looking at an NC grand touring hardtop, 59K for $18.5. It's either that, or an FRS/BRZ haha.
@@silverwave010 must be a different person because I don't own an NC 🤣 I have an EP3 and E60.
I've never driven a Miata or brz so I can't say. If you need the space I'd say got Toyobaru twins but get the newer chassis if you can afford it for the torque unless you plan on tuning the engine on the old chassis. NC for pure sports car enjoyment. Insurance is probably more expensive though
@@tommynobaka LOL Whoops, sorry man, I mistook you for the owner of the NC, his PFP was something similar haha. But I've driven all three, and the Toybaru twins are definitely a better daily. So I'll keep looking around for them! E36s or E46s would be awesome tho haha. EP3s are slept on as well
I've also driven all 4 generations and I fully agree with your thoughts on how the NC feels to drive. In terms of street performance, my NC is almost identical to my friends ND2, but it retains that fun, old school, analog feeling in the driving experience.
My only problem with the NA/NB is that my legs don't fit since my knees are touching the steering wheel the whole time.
Also, my only problems with the ND was the lack of steering feel, and the shifter feel is much looser at least in stock form
And in this market, NA's and NB's (that would've been 4-5k) are going for the same price that I paid for my 1 owner, 27k mile NC back in 2018.
(Also, NC's are very capable and the power is enough to keep up with much faster cars on mountain roads, **allegedly** of course)
UA-cam and social media tax has killed the affordability on the NA/NB. I agree the NC/D is much better option and likely less beat to crap as well.
@@iheartgs400 💯 agree. NA/NBs feel like toys, but NCs feel like real cars. The RX-8 by association is also a great alternative too
@@PeterPangea RX8 another criminally underrated car, I’ve seen blown RX8 for mere 1K great for a K24 swap project
I wonder if I could trade my yellow NA6 for an NC hmmmmm
@@iheartgs400 do they offer any K swap kits for the RX8?
Comparing four stock examples would have given a neutral comparison. Varying levels of modification muddy the waters quite considerably. Nevertheless, an interesting comparison. I own an ND2 and have not driven any other MX5s so don’t have any comparisons to make. All I know is that my car is fantastic fun to drive. I’m sure the other versions are as well
I'd be interested in how a stock NC compares to a stock ND in similar trim levels, I think most people will be deciding between a brand new car vs saving money and getting the older generation. At least that is the position I am in. I can get an NC, which is just old enough to be cheap to buy but new enough to still be in great shape with a lot of cars out that haven't been modified at all.
The one thing I lack in my ‘92 NA is that 6th-gear. It’s what makes all subsequent generations easier daily-driver cars. (And I can still lose anything but another Miata in tight corners…)
Great comparative video.
Interesting to read the comments of other generation owners too.
Best car reviewer on UA-cam hands down, keep killing it man!
More praise than I deserve but thank you!
yeah I'd like a comparison between the NC and S2k
S2k is like a "GT3" Miata. Worse steering feel, but basically better in everything else. That said, NCs are way cheaper, more playful than the slightly more knife edged s2k and have a lot of potential with mods.
Sauce: drove both and own the NCs dorito brother
Ask and you shall receive 👌
@@PeterPangea stock form even a NB is better than an NC , but with little modifications It will trash the NB and hold its own against the s2000, i also driven both, s2000 may be faster in high speed corner but the NC is more agile in mid to low cornering and has better breakes also weight less.
But i agree in stock form It doesnt stand a chance against the s2000, It comes with a more track oriented set up from factory.
That NC is honestly becoming favourite model. I'm 6 foot 2 mostly leg so the NB just doesn't work and the Na is not a comfortable experience. Having a 2.0 motor would just make it so much nicer on mountain roads. The particular model in the video is in my opinion done perfectly, absolutely everything done how I would if I had the money lol.
I'm 6'3 and own an NB. I'd say the car size is honestly fine for the majority of people. I have to straddle the steering wheel but a smaller aftermarket one would probably sort that. My dad can also fit in it and drive it and he's 6'5, so I dont honestly think the inside is really that small if you get used to it.
Yes! Never get tired of miata videos! Lol. Love my 96 miatas 8 years and counting of wonderful ownership.
I've always liked the looks of the first two generations of the MX-5. It is the clean simplicity of their designs, both inside and out, that appeals to me. Though I have read of some owners actually preferring the 1.6L in the NA, were I shopping for one of these cars I suspect that I'd want to make sure I had a chance to drive both the NA and the NB with the 1.8L engine.
I have both a 1.6L & 1.8L NA. If you held a gun to my head and made me choose, I'd take the 1.8 over the 1.6 - but there isn't as much in it as you'd think.
The NA and NB look too outdated, the NC looks the best.
@@TheFracturedfuture It's funny because the NC is my least favorite of the bunch when it comes to how these cars look. Given that design is such a subjective thing, I can understand how others might feel differently. Different strokes for different folks certainly holds true when it comes to cars.
@@VirtualGuth Yeah I guess you're right.
@@TheFracturedfuture There are multiple benefits to the long lifespan of the Miata resulting in well over a million of these cars being made (and still counting). Most notably, this ensures that people will always have access to great sports cars for bargain prices for as long as the ICE remains viable. Also, by offering multiple variations over the years, Mazda has made something for everyone who buys into the small, lightweight sports car ethos. Between the NA, NB, NC, & ND models, most fans are bound to find something to their liking or at least a base to work with. This also helps to create a great community of enthusiasts.
I find this review to be pretty accurate and very honest. I currently own a 08 NC1 w Goodwin header, helmholtz and super Q muff. Progress sways F/R and Dynotronics map. Still stock 4 x4 look but the Zeta Miesters are you next. I’m going to 8” rims with 225’s.. eventually I’m thinking Kraftwerks supercharger.. I agree with your comments. I’ve driven 2 NA’s owned one of them, but haven’t driven the ND… yet. The NA 97 1.8 I had was a screaming laugh around corners. You could throw it around without worrying about losing it. My Three Rx7’s had a point when they just left the road. For me the NC is the highest embodiment of what Mazda was after (w aftermarket stuff of course) ..
The ND transmission whoas scared me into a NC, but I couldn't be happier. 5-lug wheels, 7.5k redline, hydraulic steering, and the 2.0 MZR has a fairly high power ceiling with FI. I also think it's the best sounding Miata. The weight is overstated, but I enjoy the boat jokes.
I'm in the same (boat) as you. I owned an ND when they came out and drove it for 15k miles and enjoyed it. But it was going out of warranty and still oweing money on it I didn't want to pay out of pocket for a trans which would blow at some point. I sold it had an NB2 for a little while and got into an NC1 cheaper than the NB2 and absolutely love it.
Got a special edition NB a few years ago. Loved it so much I had to get a 2016 ND1, right before they dropped the RF...wish I would have waited as I think they look so sick plus the added 30-40hp...(and it'd be nice to have the backup camera). LOVE MY MIATA. It's my daily. I put 30K+ miles on in 2020. 48 states. Zero issues. 👌
Ah what a great video. Ever since I bought my NB MX-5. I have simply become obsessed with all the generations of MX-5. 😃😃
Bruh. I bought a 2005 Mazdaspeed Miata because of your Honda S2000 vids (couldn't afford an s2000 at the time). Last week, I bought an ND2 Miata RF because of all your ND Miata comparison vids. And then you publish this. Now I need to get a bigger garage. All the Miatas is the answer.
I ruin lives 🤐
Just bought an NA with the 1.6L and i love it it revs all the way happy and it has a feel i dont think any other car can give ever. Im the Happiest ever waiting to get an ND2 or ND3 next year after i test drive the New Z. Cause that’s the only thing stopping me right now.
I've owned my 2002 NB for fifteen years. Four years ago I bought a 2006 NC to replace it, the NB then being eighteen years old and in need of some maintenance. But I found myself choosing to drive the NB instead and sold the NC some months later. On the open road, the NC is the better car, but for suburban driving the NB just communicates better. Drive it at 10mph around a carpark, and it tells you exactly where its front wheels are. Hoon into an intersection a little too fast, squeeze the brakes, and it will change direction in an instant. I've now replaced the clutch, the brakes and the cooling system, and will drive the NB until one or other of us dies.
Incidentally, I test drove a 2014 Toyota 86 and never have I been more disappointed. It has a great chassis, but as I exited the intersection, I had no idea in which direction the front wheels were pointed. The power steering masked all feel. It was like taking a shower in a raincoat, if you know what I mean.
Never driven previous generation Miata, but I'm extremely happy with my ND2 club. Done a few mods, the most important is the Eibach lowering springs (with the original Bilstein dampers) and new wheel alignment (Flying Miata recommended). That really transformed the car, it's much more planted and have quicker corner turn in. Also consider changing the exhaust/muffler if you want a beefier engine sound (I have the Cobalt muffler which is pretty good). Other than that I think the car is perfect for road use.
What year you got
@@deej628 2019
@@mx-5driver406 same! Which springs and how much did it lower you?
@@deej628 It's the Eibach PRO-KIT lowering springs, which is the same as Mazda offers as accessory on their site (at least in Sweden). I bought and installed them in a Mazda shop. They lower the car about 2 cm all around, which improves the look quite a bit (besides the improved handling). Ride comfort basically stays the same.
@@mx-5driver406 2cm?
My only complain on my ownership on the ND2 is the steering feel. The electric steering feel needs quite a bit of getting used to before you are in tune with it.
One day of drifting on an ice lake helped me figure the steering feedback. It is subtle but actually gives good information
One of the better electric racks for sure though
Idk if you've done it, but after I lowered my ND2, I had it aligned to Flyin Miata specs. It changes the steering feel a a lot. The biggest, immediately noticeable difference was the huge reduction in the dead spot in the middle of the steering. But I also drove my brother's Lexus GX 460 (SUV) with, I believe, hydraulic steering, and it felt noticeably good compared to my last few electric powered steering sports cars. I'm just saying that alignment can change your steering feel by quite a bit in your Miata. Mine felt completely different when I arrived at the alignment shop and when I left.
@@HotCarl73 yes mine is custom aligned. I used to have a Speed3 and the steering feel in that is sensational. I guess it is all about getting used to the new feel
Good Lord I am so envious of your experience practicing on the ice! I don’t live anywhere near such a place but I’m dying to try that.
@@Driver67 The Mazda 3 of that era really had superb steering feel, not as 'tight' and heavy as new EPS cars like the ND, but wayyy more information through the wheel. Surprising for what's meant to be an economy car!
I think the whole "chick car" argument against the miata is even more nonsensical now. Here in Canada at least all the ladies drive around in wranglers and massive suvs/trucks. Literally all miata owners I see are old grandpas.
I'm a grandpa in the U.S. and really enjoy my 2008 Mazda MX5 Miata with the PRHT. Best bang for the buck sports car you can buy.
That’s because we’ve all owned and driven dozens to hundreds of cars and know what matters!
And there is great freedom in being completely indifferent to what anyone else thinks 😂
Feels like most of the Miata drivers in SoCal are the younger generation, in their 20's.
Not counting ND's.
I'm 67 and I have a nice red 98 NB.At least I can get in and out of it easily.The same can't be said for younger mechanics and tyre guys who literally fall out of it onto the ground.😂
For a long time that "chick car" argument kept prices so low. I've had 2 at bargain prices and loved them both. I have a Boxster S now and love it but there are aspects of the Miata that I still miss.
As part of a Miata Club and owner of 2000 NB (after a '90 NA) one option on mine that really stiffens it is the Hard Dog frame mounted roll bar. Other club members use some
fancy fold-up head-ache protection but still experience a lot of body flex.
Love this video being that today was the first time I drove my 1997 Miata after working on it for over a year now and she drove amazing
Nice! Take it to the mountains, if you’re close.
@@cl5314 I’m in Florida bro flat lands lol
I’d like to see the NC vs s2000 comparison. Especially with s2k prices being so crazy now
S2000 every day you can't beat that motor.
@@reroyals4206 It may have the jewel of a motor. But I think the nc has the better chassis.
@@scottcolpitts8521 no it doesn't. The s2000 is perfectly weight distributed and even has a front mind engine layout where the entire engine is behind the front wheels... don't even argue against an NC the s2000 is better in literally every way and came out 6 years earlier.
don’t think an nc would keep up but a mazdaspeed nb definitely could
@@reroyals4206 nc has 50/50 weight distribution as well
I've a special edition NC finished in Spirited Green to match the GT race car they produced. I'd say coil overs are a must and they significantly tighten up the control in the cornering ability which is already great. My plan is now to see a tuning specialist here in the UK and am looking for a naturally aspirated tune to take it to 200bhp although it can go up to 225 or higher with turbo and supercharging options. Always felt it could do with more power and I think 200bhp is plenty.
Bro 240 is perfect for the NC
Turbo 1.8 na is the best option from my experience, better steering then the nb, and all other chassis feel diffrences are negligible with little changes
Great review, loved seeing all of them back to back 👍🏻😁
I owned a 68 MGB in the late 1970's. I was in my early 20's then and I didn't have much money. My MG wasn't in very good condition. I still loved driving it. I was a young auto repair tech then. Move ahead to the 1990's. I remember when the first Miata's came out. I remember how I felt the first time that I drove one that came into my shop for maintenance. I couldn't stop smiling as I road tested it. I was in heaven! Today I own a 2023 Mazda MX-5 GT. I am now 66 years old . I smile just thinking about driving my Mazda. I have never driven an MX-5 that I didn't like. I have driven every generation of them.
I have a 2000 MX5 Base 5 speed I bought from my neighbor. It had been completely serviced before she parked it 5 years ago. Tires, battery, a lot cleaning and 4 spark plugs later it is a blast. Mazda did a great job with these roadsters.
I just upgraded my 2011 PRHT GT that had upgraded suspension (progress sway bars & springs) and a ECUTek Tune to a 2022 GS-P with sport package. The new KPC system on the 2022 does a great job of keeping the car flatter in the corners.
Nc1 here, loving it 👍🏻
2019 RF ND2: While it would be good to have the 360 degree view of a soft top it wasn't that important to me. I find that the retractable fastback to be better looking. I really like the design and operation of the roof. When I'm facing forward in the driver's seat, with the top down, it seems as open as a soft top. I wanted the extra horsepower, and the telescoping steering wheel. I figured the soft top would deteriorate sooner. My other reasoning for buying the RF model was our weather.
We live in CA in a place that has 4 to 6 weeks of over 100 degrees each summer. Winters can drop into the 20's but 40 is more common. I figured I would want the insulation of the hard top during the hottest days when the AC might not handle 112 degrees.
It's been three weeks since we purchased the car and I'm thrilled with it.
As a 6’0” man with my wife who like to do road trips, we like our NC Miata the best!
This a really comprehensive review. Thanks.
I have a 65,000 mile NB and love it. Really well built, super reliable and FUN. But I'm getting older and would like a bit more refinement so after reading countless ND reviews I was ready to pull the trigger on a very slightly used '20 ND2 soft top. Until I drove it. Within seconds with the top up, I was wondering where all the noise was coming from. I thought the passenger window was down or the door was open. I checked everything but nothing was amiss.
Lowering the top helped but the car is obviously pretty much devoid of insulation. I know it's a convertible sports car, blah, blah, blah but it really feels cheap and to me, sullies an otherwise great car. The handling, engine, transmission and even the ride quality are excellent but unless you're on the track, you're not wringing it out in every gear ALL the time. I'd like to be able to carry on a conversation without yelling.
I'm now considering an NC but I'm also looking at a Boxster to get a more refined package. I don't expect a Miata to be at the same level as Porsche but would a little insulation have really hurt the Miata's real world performance?
What did you end up going with? I have a 2000 miata as well.
My favorite for appearence is the ND. Next is the NB for overall best Miata. The NA is a classic and I want one.
I have a NB 2002 Special Edition Titanium Gray
We're just waiting for S2K VS NC comparison!
Also consider the comparison with the GT86 or Gr86!
Had my 91 for 15 yrs nearly 400k km on the clock just keeps going, added coilovers, headers, Michelins. new bushings and a megasqirt (still na) bloody awesome never sell it.......great video thanks...
This was one of the best comparison videos of the different gens of Miata’s! Thanks for making such a great quality video.
Love how Tiffany customized hers including all the interior bits, I own a 2000 black nb completely stock
I own an NC PRHT. The first Miata I ever sat in. I will not say any one model is better than the next. But I will say you will enjoy any model you get. Incredible cars. BTW PRHT > Pop up head lights. 😎
Fantastic no hype review. Highest signal to noise and lowest bullshit to sense ratio I've come across in a while. Subscribed!
Very professional review and comments. Thanks! Will pick up my ND2 in 10 days, can’t wait for it !!! Cheers from Luxembourg with plenty of curvy roads with non-existing holes, potholes or bumps 😁 An MX-5 dreamland.
A true test of stock models would have been better. I’ve owned NA with Supercharger, NB with supercharger, Stock NC. Now I’ve got the 2022 BRZ. My current is the best😁
I agree. It's just hard to find bone stock examples.
I personally like the rawness of the NA Miata and in 2016 when I was shopping around it was hard for me to justify paying extra for the NC or ND when I could get a mint low mileage NA for $7k. But nowadays my choice would be a little more difficult.
I wanted an NA but they were literally selling for 10-15k, so I went for a literal brand new ND RF for 25k. Its so weird right now.
@@cokeycola9514 Used car prices are crazy, and the NA is old enough so the price is going up on them. Clean unmodified examples are getting harder to find and enthusiasts are really the only ones looking at them since they will usually need work (seals, rubber, roofs, etc). Locally a new ND is 35k to 40k (Canadian) and an NA can be $20k or more. Buying an NC is cheaper then an NA, $15k or under.
I’m really loving the NC love here, I just bought me one and I LOVE it! I had a NA and an NB as well
Coming from the Mitsubishi side of the equation, I can say Miatas are just a whole class all their own. Even compared to the S2K, you get the experience of seeing the progression through the generations, whereas other models from other Marques stop at 1 or 2 gens. It's more akin to an Eclipse - though we all know that story is one of regression, whereas Miatas have progressed through the iterations.
The only solid complaint I have with the Miata is its size. Not the lightweight nor compact aspect of it, but the actual feel of sitting in it all day. Again, coming from what one might consider "touring" vehicles (Evos, Eclipses), a Miata is set up like a proper racecar - where even seating position is limited to a certain angle and distance from the steering wheel. This argument is all about the "daily-driving" comfort of being in a Miata: one for the young, and not necessarily for those who have "progressed" in age.
For that reason, the wife squarely keeps the ND2 for weekend drives. While I fly wingman in one of the FTOs :)
Jinba ittai!
Like the difference between the ND1 and ND2, the NC2 also had an upgraded engine with forged internals and higher redline. Try to get your hands on the NC2 for future comparos
The NC2 and 3 2.5L is quite the improvement over the 2.0 yes
@@TheBishop12 they don’t come with a 2.5, it’s the same engine with improved internals. But yeah the 2.5 swap is much better than the 2.0
Yeah I'd love to try an NC2 if I can find one
Great video, I've driven every generation of Miata except for the ND2/RF2 but yes the ND1/RF1 gen) and overall my favorite one is still the NC.
I do think it's still very enjoyable to drive at low speeds, but I can put the top down (power hard top) which of course makes it fun all the time lol.
Also I think an NC with mods compares very well with the S2k. I think it's pretty evident that you do too since you mentioned it lol. The S2k engine is an absolute gem of a thing, but I like the flexibility of the NC engine at low speeds.
Also I've said for a long time that the Miata lineage is fun on the track but they TRULY shine on a nice windy road! They can be magical 👌
Love what you said about pushing the NA Miata to the max makes you ready for the others. It's not a hard thing to achieve (maybe difficult in canyons where the lower-end result is you dying from a 400' plunge), but the car really does put things into perspective from a performance racing stand point.
Have owned a NA, two NC. Driven All. Miata. Miata is always the answer every one of them's fun no such thing as the best, it just happens to be the one you are driving right now have fun.
Owner of a 1.8 l n a 5-speed and an nc1 6-speed manual. They are both a joy to drive but without a doubt the NC feels like the more sophisticated sports car. Love the review and it's spot on
I have driven every generation of MX-5. Being at automotive tech has some perks. I absolutely LOVE to drive my 04 NB. If I ever decide to upgrade, the ND will be my choice. Or NE by that time. I'm in NO hurry to get rid of my NB!
If you sort the suspension on the ND2, it honestly might be the perfect canyon car. I've got some relatively softly sprung (575lb/275lb i.e. ~10kg/5kg...track-soft, not road-soft, haha) MCS 2Ws and Karcepts front and rear bars on mine, and run lightweight 16x7.5 wheels on 205/45s for the shorter gearing. With the right settings, it's comfier than stock on rough surfaces, while being much more confident in every way--and even on full soft in the front, it gives you a bit more steering feel than stock. As someone who has owned an AP2 and an FD, this car is every bit as fun on backroads, if not more fun on average than anything I've owned/driven. An absolute golden retriever of a car for sure.
A golden retriever of a car is so spot on. I also own an ND and that is the perfect way to describe the experience!
Thumbs up for the MCS dampers!
@@noncog1 Thanks! Overall they're fantastic, but could perhaps be valved slightly better to allow for more fine adjustment on the compression side.
@@HigeYatsu do your remote cans have the round heads or the hex heads? The gen 1 hex's are 14 click and the gen 2 round's are 18 click.
@@noncog1 I've got the gen 2 kit from Karcepts. The amount of adjustment from a click perspective is great (even 14 clicks would honestly be perfectly fine), but it seems like functionally the chassis only likes a small range on the lower end of clicks from full soft. I feel like it'd be ideal if they gave you 16 clicks of compression adjustment between what is full soft, and the equivalent of say, 8-10 clicks or so, on the current compression setup. Interestingly, rebound seems to give you a lot more usable granularity for fine-tuning. Essentially you'd never really need to go stiffer front or rear than a few clicks on the compression side, so giving that range some more granular adjustment would make them perfect. For example, I really wish I had a setting between 3 and 4 clicks for compression in the rear for street driving--3 is a bit vague, and 4 is too stiff for a lot of public surfaces. But like I said, overall they're absolutely phenomenal dampers, and I could definitely recommend them to anyone considering taking the leap.
Some people would prefer the NC and ND, and I don't blame them! More modern amenities, stiffer chassis, more power stock and can be built up more, and interior quality is nicer. But I'll say this, I love stock Miata's, and nothing can give the experience of a 1990-2005, but especially not the 1990-1993. The car feels perfectly sketchy.
What do I mean? It's a little loose, yet it's tight and direct. It feels out of control and always ready to go. You feel like it's both tittering on the edge and perfectly aligned. That's what makes the first generation, and the first models, the NA6, so thrilling. The car doesn't have anything to help you, and the car itself is capable of taking corners, but each corner feels like a roller coaster even at fairly tame speeds. Attack it well, and you feel like the Miata can handle it, but also like you have a screw loose because the car feels insane! I love the lack of power steering, it makes the car more direct, more feedback, you can even tell the road conditions through the wheel vibrations. I like that, I prefer no power steering, as only in parking lots do you miss it in a car this light.
It's perfectly weighted. Shifter in any Mazda is fantastic. I drive a Del Sol right now, but I owned a 1990 and 1991 Miata, and plan within the week to buy a 1992 (it's been having to be worked on). A Honda Shifter feels good, especially with a short throw, but a rebuilt (not even short shifter though the brass piece helps) 1990-2005 shifter? It's amazing. I would take it over Honda's every day.
A modern car may give you a nicer interior stock, you can make an NA or NB more luxurious. Quilted leather, different gauges, etc. You can get much better handling out of those newer cars too. But you can't get the old school fun and sketch that the NA and NB to a lesser extent has. I would argue those two generations are the best to own, not because the NC is bad (It's a deal!) or that the ND isn't worth it (it is expensive though, you can buy a perfect survivor NA for half the price of a base model ND off the lot or for the price of a pre-owned ND of any type), but that the NA and NB are just amazing. I love the classic roadster styling of the NA, it feels like what an MG MGB should have been if it had survived into the 90's. But with the reliability you want out of a Japanese car. It's simple to fix. It's lovely to drive. I adore these cars.
Great job! Loved the ride-along in modified Miatas. Makes me want to get in my NB2 and take off for the mountains!
1) NC hardtop
2)Nd RF
3) NB
4)NA
My preference in order favorite to least.
I am the original owner of a 2011 nc2. After over 10 years of ownership, I am still waiting to find something to put beside it in the garage that would be almost, or just as fun. Current gr86 or future gr corolla might do. But if anyone is trying to decide which miata, check out current prices for nc's. 2009 - 2015 have an updated motor with forged crank and rods, and also rpm up to 7500. I feel like these cars are still slept on with the s2000 taking all the price increase glory.
K20 swapped NB is the ticket imo. But if we are talking non modified, then the 2.0 NC is the one I would take. The ND just looks strange to me.
Still trying to find a K20/24 swapped ANYTHING to review
@@Zygrene when you do. Your mind will be blown. And your wallet will be ready to be empty
Mazdaspeed Miata is the best by far, factory turbo, thing is absolutely nuts. Love it.
I just bought a 2015 GT with 40,000 miles, handles great, the steering is tight. Only downside is that it is an automatic. Was kind of a quick buy. Otherwise a sweet car.
Nice review !! ‘93 NA with NB2 engine with ITB’s here.. I just love it ! Soooo much fun and character.
Miata is always the answer - I agree to 100%😎👍👍👍
Best little reardrive
sports car that you can afford! And it's so much fun to drive! I had an mx5 NB in 2010... Best car I'd ever had!
It was so much fun to drive!
... and affordable!
i drift an nc roadster and can confidently say it is the most suitible mx5 for drifting as mine has some basic cat track cams and a tune suspension cable throttle conversion and 4-1 decat header to full decat system and a few angle mods
and i am able to keep up with cars along the lines of street spec jzx100s,180sx,and altezza with no issues
basically get the generation of miata you want, and if needed modify it to your preferences. I love that the aftermarket support is huge and you can make your miata look feel and do whatever you want it to be.
IMO, this video is a prerequisite for my Miata shopping. Never a fan of the NC look, but your review has really opened my mind about this model. And add my thumb's up for an S2000 comparison. Owned a stock 2005 for three years as my daily driver, and miss it terribly.
Zygrene you ever come down to Atlanta, I have an ND that is fully road inspired in modifications. I'm a mechanic with mechanical engineering background but doing Sushi for a living. I've built drag cars, autocross cars, and track cars and have years of experience in different styles of racing. I have a very nice ND that is dialed in perfectly for any occasion. We should talk.
I would like a similar comparison of all 4 with soft tops down and few mods. I love my 93, mildly modded, mainly bracing, and rarely put the top up.
I am on my second NC and have been daily driving them for years.
My NB is an 01 model and the same color as Tiffany's car. Best car I've ever had. Fun to drive every time and reliable for use as my daily driver. I plan to keep it for awhile longer.
PS: Would have been neat to test the Fiat 124 Spyder too, since it's the Miata chassis with the turbo engine and nice bodywork.
Liked your review. I have a 10AE NB. I like it. I recentl;y switched to a new BRZ. I also recently drove a 30th anniversary Miata . The BRZ and 2019 Miata are very similar in engine performance.
Nice comparison. I do wish they'd all been unmodified so you'd get a real "apples-to-apples" comparison. Also, since you felt that NC was so well set up, it might be nice to know all the specific mods that your friend did.
BTW, I owned a 1999 NB as a daily driver and autocross/track car for about 8 years and _really_ enjoyed it!
Used Miata’s are way up in price! You’re so right, I’ve been watching it for the last couple years
I have a 2012 NC gt. It will be with me for always. It is the best car i have ever had
just got an NC without any clue what it did. It goes vroom vroom top down
The NC Miata is (as far as I can tell) hands down the best dollar for dollar sports car available on the used market right now. However, if there ends up being too many UA-cam videos pointing out the fact that it's able to hold its own against S2000s and NDs, that could change quick. 🙂
Exactly and prices are going up lately, some people is starting to catch on the NC... A car that does sub 8 min in nurburgreen with subtle modifications, its a hidden gem, im glad i bought It when they were cheaper and its a keeper! Its proben to be more stable than the ND on the rear with its multi link suspensión... Also plenty of aftermarket options to make It faster power and handling wise.
Yup. It was the C4 Vette for a long time but the prices seem to be going way high for late model variants of it (you can get a great deal on an '84 to '86 though, but they will be rough). NC wasn't popular (and still isn't), and is only now catching on with people. Plus they are new enough that parts are easy to find, and they tend to be in good shape without a ton of miles on them.
You should have a drive in my ND1 with lots of chassis/suspension/brake mod. I basically have it set up as a real world GT car.
I'm down if you're local! Shoot me a quick email at zygrene@gmail.com
Hi Dabinche! Owner of the ND in this video. Just wanted to say thanks for all your Miata content, it’s been very helpful for DIY maintenance and the few mods I’ve done on mine!
I love the classic chrome mirror the owner added to the NA. Would've loved to see how the turbocharged Mazdaspeed version would've faired in this comparison. They are great rides, but of the four, the Nc would be my choice. I'm 6'3", and my knees wrap around the steering wheel on the NA and NB. The ND is also smaller than the NC, but I haven't driven one.
Nice video. I had one NA and two NCs driven the ND. Fun is the common denominator. 👍😎
Which on do you like, which one in your opinion performs better? If you had to sell one if you had them all?
Wow. Those last few seconds of the entire video when they were each pulling out in order....! Amazing. Makes me want to buy my wife our 2nd Miata.
You sure do a great job conveying the feel of each car. Thank you!
You’re doing God’s work here. Keep up the great work.
The ND is the most fun I've ever had on 4 wheels and it isn't close. I'm hoping to hit 150k miles at least on mine.
I'll be back at the end of the video but before it even starts I've had a 93 (yup the much maligned 1.6l) fully stock for about six months and I don't see how later models could improve on it. Obviously a 200hp engine would help, but I can pretty much wring the thing out everywhere I go. I've had cars with 3 to 4 times the power but it's not really something I can use 80 percent of the time. Oh and it's a joy to work on. Very simple with plenty of room in the engine bay and I don't have to take off a bunch of plastic covers to work on it.
...maybe one gripe...it needs a 6th gear or a taller final. I'm at 4k when driving 70. It's not a highway bomber but I guess it wasn't designed to be though.
Yes, same thing I thought, so easy to drive. The harder you push it the more it grips.
Na is best Miata, NC is best value.. especially with a 2.5 swap
Thanks for all your hard work putting this comparative review together. Thing is, including modified examples kinda negates the comparison. Are the differences due to version differences? Or due to mods?? It’s impossible to know. This was fun to watch, but as a comparative test, I’m afraid the results are compromised.
Out of the NA and NB generations I prefer the NA. The platforms are actually identical underneath but the NB2 got sport breaks VVT 1.8 and a lot of factory bracing. Most of that is fairly easily addressed on an NA but the NA really does feel like a true classic car, whereas the NB defiantly doesn't feel special in that way.
NC = tighter turning, stiffer suspension & handling.
1.8 NA with LSD is raw and light..’97 NA is my choice..
That rev-off at the start is brilliant.
I would love to put the NB interior in my NC. Fantastic comparison guys.
Nice video. I'm picking up a 2021 Club with the track package tomorrow. This video got me excited.
Great review 👍 id love to see the same with 4 stock cars though