"this is costing us less than expected' so instead of pocketing the cash, Mazda actually told the engineers to put the rest of the budget into more technology for an even better product? Now That's Love!
This is a relevant, personal story: I bought a Miata the year they came out in 1989. They were very hard to find and wildly popular. (I got mine on a fluke drive---paid sticker price, too.) I was showing off my new car to a friend one late weekday morning, driving on Sunset Boulevard with the top down, when a vintage white Jaguar convertible of some kind starts catching up to us. The cars gets right alongside us, and behind the wheel of the Jag is Jay Leno. He's checking out my Miata! He smiles and yells out, "Hey, how do you like that car?" I had no idea that he went on to be a fan of the Miata. Guys like to put the car down, but those are people who never drove a Miata. I kept the car for ten years and loved it every single time I drove it. Never once had a problem with it.
I was 13 when the Miata came out and remember the hysteria fondly. If I recall correctly they stickered just under $14k but dealers were marking them up $4-5k. I ended up purchasing a 1997 right after my 21st birthday. Put on a Bell Autorotor, then a Flying Miata II turbo at 15 psi. Replaced the suspenion, put on a 4 pt rollbar, wheels, etc. Did all the work myself. That car was a massive point of pride of my early adulthood, have nothing but fond memories. Had it for 5 years, put 80k miles on it before I sold it to a friend after purchasing a low mileage '95 Dinan M3. Been toying with the idea of getting one of the newer Miatas but I hardly drive anymore... maybe I should though.
BrateTebra123 t.z. Streptomicin za muski rod which one? The only miata that has a turbo is the mazdaspeed miata. And jays NA is supercharged not turbo.
I love so much about these cars but I remember the first I drove and my initial reaction was 'Wow, shifting gears is FUN!'. If anyone talks to me about my MX-5 I start by saying how much fun it is to drive and then talk about the gearbox. Perfect short shift, I can't even explain how much I love it.
The first time you drive one is the first time you understand. It's not about competing with other drivers for attention or speed. Its not about 'dropping an LS1' in it. It's about having fun with a car that fits like a glove, is soooo sweet to drive and doesn't shout 'look at me, look at me'. Brings a big smile to my face every time I drive along a twisty scenic road, just me and the car. Nothing else.
Doncha know that real men only drive cars that are crap? Reliable, good handling cars are for sissies. Real men drive things that will get you killed. Like a 911. Or an old corvair. Maybe a pinto with those long bolts that pierce the gas tanks. Those are REAL men's cars!
I've owned 2 Triumph Spitfires, a Corvette and a Miata and the Miata is the one I'll never sell. I have a 1991 BRG Miata LE that I've owned since 1991 and it really captures the small sports car feel and after 30+ years it's still as reliable as when I bought it.
i don't care what anyone says. Mazda MX-5 is the most brilliant car that has been ever created. it's simple, classic, and very fun to drive. it has absolutely no flaws.
College student and a proud owner of my 97 Miata. Yes I do get the "girly car" comments BUT I've yet to encounter a female classmate who denied my offer to give her a ride home once she saw my miata ;)
My dad passed away in Morro Bay CA in 2004 and willed to me his 1995 Miata. I still have her, and will be buried in her. Of all the cool cars I've owned- 1955 Austin Healey BN1, 1963 Avanti, and 1962 Fuelie Vette, my darling Miata is the best. We love each other.
+marc “TrueTurnupTosser” dark red, im in live with it. 1) exhaust system 2) coil overs 3) forced induction, kinda wanna do a turbo for peak HP, but i like the idea of mid range torque on a supercharger.
I first saw the Miata at the Chicago Autoshow in Feb 1988, fell in love with it. Brought home a factory brochure (very limited in supply), Went to my local dealer the next week, they knew nothing about the Miata. On several occasions I attempted to place an order, but no pricing was available, but finally in May of 1988 I found a saleswoman who would accept my order she wrote it up at 'factory list price). The demand was incredible, the dealers were getting up to $5000 over factory list, mine was finally delievered Oct 5, 1989 a Red Package B. I still have it, drove it across the country on old route 66, up the Pacific Coast Highway, raced with the SCCA for 5 years, averaged between 22 to 26 events a year, now have 165K on the clock, still runs flawlessly. I now live in SW Florida where I am able to drive it almost every day with the top down and the sweet sound of the exhaust in my ears. I go to the Sebring International Racetrack twice each year and drive 'track touring laps' during the HSR lunchtime. I love my Miata !
my dad just bought my sister her first car, we are surprising her with a RED 1992 mazda miata from USA imported to Canada... i can't wait to see the smile on her face. It's her dream car since she was 5 years old.
Not true...I make fun of them BUT I also have a NA and a NB...Along with a GenII Viper GTS and a Lexus RCF. They are very slow but at the same time, very fun to drive!
@@rolon-ew5kl im currently in the market for an NA. My dada has one and let me borrow it for the day, he told me your gonna want to buy one after driving one. I said, no way, well.....now I'm in the market for one and my pontiac firebird is up for sale.....HAHA
I'm 18 and this car is a dream. It's not one of those ridiculous FWD-hatchbacks but a little RWD sportscar... A shame we lost all the British sportscars in the 70s / 80s, but at least this one keeps the rain out :D
Do what you can to make the dream come true! I just turned 18 and I own a 2007 PRHT 1.8 model, worked hard for two years to get it, but it was definitely worth it! Awesome car :)
Honestly, we lost those old British sports cars because they were garbage...lol. The Miata is the essence of the old British sports car without all of the rust, electrical, and mechanical problems.
Hey Jay, I hope you are reading these comments. I just wanted to say that your sign off from the tonight show was a very generous and self deprecating gesture. You really made your family proud!! (Your mom and dad did a great job bringing you up!)
As I write this in 2021 my light blue NB2 Miata is sitting in the driveway. Today I had the top replaced for the first time, and with every change I make I drive home or drive around town and back just as happy as I can be with this car. It's twenty years old now; my father bought it new and I bought it from him six years ago. I know it's entire ownership history and it's been one of the most reliable cars I've owned, but it's also the most fun. I've never had a car that made me this content. Nothing else has, for me, ever come close.
My first experience with a miata was driving it back from a dealership after my buddy bought a car. He needed someone to drive his miata home so I did. I fell in love with it on the way home and wrote him a check for it the next day. He still regrets selling it to me, 1996 Miata M-edition. I have since turboed it and now it is exactly how I want it.
I think what a lot of people miss about these cars is their directness and feeling. The Japanese cars made in the 90's really seemed to integrate the driver into the whole experience. Todays cars seem to focus entirely on the car doing its thing, and the Driver is more a long for the ride. It's been pretty much all down hill these days which is really sad. If you don't believe or understand what I mean, go drive a Japanese car from the 90's and you'll see what I mean. They might not have the most power (unless you're talking Skyline, Evo or Supra) but they have a connectedness with the driver that I haven't been able to find in modern cars.
Headlights go up, headlights go down! Headlights go up, headlights go down! Headlights go up, headlights go down! Up. Down. Up. Down. Up. Down. Up. Down. Updownupdownupdownupdown!
Mine is a 94 i always keep it clean and still look like new! I just in love with my little Miata it is fun to drive and put a smile on my face! I dont need a $100,000 car just this one i am happy!😊
I bought my Miata 7/2/89 and still have it. It still looks like new. Mazda used to offer me a little money to test drive a new Miata. Once, I took the new model out for a spin and, when I got back, they said someone wanted to buy my 1990. I asked the guy what he wanted it for and he said that he wanted to race it. I told him, "Hell no! I didn't baby it for all these years so YOU could trash it!" Now I think it is time to take it out of the barn, service it, and take it for a spirited drive!
unless you've actually driven try not to insult it too much it is a very reliable sports car very firm on the road it's like a large Go kart in handling I'd love to drive this model Jay is driving !!!!
I've owned two 1999 Mazda Miata's and I have to say, they are the most fun cars I have ever driven and raced. Watching this video makes me wish I had not sold my last one just a few weeks ago :(
Proud Miata owner! Not the fastest, but definitely most fun :) Some people make fun of it, but nothing gets through the smile that it puts on your face
I own and have owned many sports cars. Corvette, Z4, Porsche boxster and 911, caterham 7 and many more. I love all of them but I still drive my miata as a daily driver. Every car has a presents that you have to find and learn to love. I always come back to my 1990 miata. I'm not sure if it's the fact that I can replace every part of the car myself and for not much money, the fact that I have made it my own with heavy suspension modifications or what or just the fact that I get a smile every time I drive it. My brother doesn't get why I like it so much, but I think it's awesome that Jay Leno "the ultimate car guy" gets it.
35 years in the car business and Jay's knowledge is that of an insider, I understand he has enough celebrity to open doors but.... his study and knowledge is beyond measure ... What a class act. Will miss the show Jay glad to still have a connection...
***** wow a video link? plus isnt tht a later model mx5 its not really holding the corners too well ive seen better at the race circuit down the road from me and that was a bmw
Of all the tributes this is the first one I see with the original creators with so much back story. Amazing, I didn't know any of that. Thank you, Jay! And thank you creators
Thanks for this Jay....I was very tired hearing about my '97 being a girl's car. I wanted a MG that wouldn't break down and this has been the best car I've ever owned.
The MX5 Miata has long been one of my favorite cars, its small, light weight, handles amazingly, even stock. Its unfortunate that there are so many people who don't realize just what a Miata can do, they just see it as a "happy hairdresser's" car!
its not muscle car, its not a sleeper, its a roadster that was ment for touge understand the concepts of it before you start saying negative comments about it... my opinion?? this was one of the best cars i ever driven
I live near the mountains and it will literally hug the road. The more you downshift and hit the gas the more it hugs. It is FUN car, not super fast, but plain fun. My Dad bought it new in 1992 and I just laughed until I drove it. Fun :)
Other than my dogs, my Miata is the most fun, therapeutic, rewarding, joyous, and just plain satisfying thing in my life! To drive it is to realize what a brilliantly designed and engineered car is. I feel it's actually an extension of me, it's that responsive, that connected to the driver. And it"s reliable, a true bargain, and looks gangbusters! To me, there are Miatas, and then all other cars!
These cars are so much fun to drive as you go through the five speed manual. I can't believe there are some people that buy them with automatics, what a waste.
I bought a 2006 Miata right off the delivery truck and loved it for 84,000 miles when last spring I found a well maintained 25th Anniversary Edition for sale and couldn't pass it up...wish I could have kept both of them but only room for one! What a fun car!
Bought a 93 about a month ago....after my son bought a 90 before that.....I loved his....and mine is great....Owned a 67 corvette with 427 with pop top and convert...this is the same with less power, of course but handles twice as well! LOVE IT
+Eric Cartman Nope 1st MX5 was european Market - Miata was American Market and also built in US. Bodypanels from european Cars didnt fit to US cars and vice versa. No Europe Dealer could sell US Parts back in the day you have to get them from the US. They even look different no MX5 has a 3rd Breaklight, no Miata had 2 of them.
As an owner of the '99 NB model, I already did 330 000km without a single problem. Best car I ever had (had quite a few!), it will stay in my garage for ever. My message to Mazda : PLEASE keep it that simple!
Growing up on the Northern California coast I learned to drive in my brothers' TR 3 and Spitfire . Driving top down in the cool ocean fog delighted our English souls. Fast forward to 1990 and I bought my first Mx5. That same feeling with out burning oil and mechanic bills. The best of California soul, English inspiration and Japanese brains.
yeah when i see a convertible 350z im like thats the ugliest thing you could have done to such a beautiful car and ofc it's a woman driving and its usually auto :P
That little chuckle from Jay as he accelerated out of a corner said it all. That's what the MX5 gives you. It's not the fastest, it's not the lightest, but for a car that you can drive every day there's nothing that'll give you that chuckle better.
it's funny, I was just asking about Jay's Miata, I thought he was too shy to say he had a Miata in his garage, let alone admit he has owned one for many years. I think I might want to own one some day, but I think I want a 79 Corvette, red.
I owned a 2006 MX-5 (3rd Gen model), and added cold air intake, new headers & muffler, sticky tires on 17" rims, Bilsteins, sways, and other goodie; and Man, oh man that car was fun to drive, and full of torque. I also own a 1997 911 and 2005 Ferrari as well, and I loved the Miata for short sprints and twisty mountain runs, which is hard to beat. Felt more comfortable in that car around tight corners and twisties than any other car I've driven. You really feel one with the car, and it reacts perfectly to your every move. You feel like you're going a lot faster than you are, which makes driving around town much, much more fun (without getting a ticket). The car gets a bad rap as girl's car, and it's too bad, really not correct. But unfortunately that rap is not going away. It's probably the best, most fun car you can buy for the money, easy to upgrade, and as Jay said: It's all you really ever need (coming from a guy who owns over 100 cars). The top comes down in 2 seconds flat!! I mean two seconds (on 3rd gen., manual top cars). Yes, the Porsche and Ferrari are far far better cars, no question. But for the money, I don't think there's too many better cars out there. Plus you can beat it up, track it, and not care about damaging it. If you don't have "badge" hangups, it's the car to buy (can get pretty cheap used too).
Just bought a NC 2012 model. I don't care what anyoe says (my friend was like "dude DON'T get a Friggen MIATA!"). It's all about me and the car and we are one when I drive it. Jinba Ittai!!! (Horse and rider as one, a Japanese saying, and the principle that drove the car's design).
I owned a 1997 Miata for over five years and loved it. All I ever did to it was drive it and change the oil regularly. Dead reliable and wonderful to drive. Mine had been tweaked with by the previous owner so it handled better and was quicker than a stock one. I did put a real roll bar in mine though, Jay needs to up grade from the chrome dress up tubing behind him to something that could actually protect him in case it ever turned over. Other than that, it's a great looking car.
In the winter of 2002, i flew down to L.A. and bought a '92 MX5, had some Blizzaks put on and drove it home to Alaska. Was charging up hills in the Canadian Rockies while semis were pulled over chaining up. Still have it. Great car.
My little 1995 Miata is still running as sharp as it did when I bought it in 1998. But I am 77 years old and don't drive it as much as I once did. Have never had any major repairs, and only a fender bender once. LOVE my chic car but do get a lot stares when this ole grey haired lady flies by, passing the big SUVs...
JoJo I'm 66 and love zipping around and taking road trips in my '99 Miata that I've had since '06! Great little car, hope to be driving it when I'm 77 and beyond.
I have a 1990 Miata. I used to have a Morgan 4+4 (1600cc, 60 HP, 1,450 lb), Triumph TR-8 3.5 liter V8, BMW Z4 3.5 IS (twin turbo, 7sp auto double clutch). The most fun sports cars were the Morgan, 60HP and the Miata, 116HP. You can PLAY with those cars, throw them around corners and go through the gears and you’re not breaking every speed law know to man. The BMW was too fast to play and too computer controlled.
Never met you in person Jay, but I am hoping with all my heart that when you get bored with the traveling and break-taking associated with retirement, you will continue creating these awesome weekly gems that I and many others look forward to. It is much appreciated.
I used to restore Triumph Spitfires. But in 1989 when I first saw a Miata I was hooked. Years later I bouth a 15 year old 2001 Miata. Little by little I have a pretty solid car. The car had 108,000 miles on it. The VVT 1.8 Litre engine runs like it just came out of the factory. I love this car and when driving it I feel very safe and in control. I will take this car to my grave. HI JAY!
I concur. The car is beautiful and it has obviously had lots of performance tweaks. Please put an actual roll bar in this car. I would hate for you to get hurt and I would hate that my favorite car hurt you. I'd be willing to bet Hard Dog or Boss Frog would give you a nice one just for the prestige of you using it. A beauty bar just instills a false sense of security.
I was an auto tech at a Hackensack, NJ Ford/Mazda dealer from '76 - '86. At the time they were selling RX-3, RX-4, Cosmos as I recall. Mazda's Factory rep used to pay almost monthly visits to the dealer & he told me if the RX-7 didn't sell it may be the end of Mazda. When they were released there was a 6 month wait to get one. The apex seal issues were fixed, there were no more engine issues... the car sold like hotcakes!!! I used to road test them on Rte. 80 and spin them 6,000, 7,000 RPM's no problem. The RX-7 was awesome!!!!
My 12 y/o Daughter asked me if my Miata was a girls car. I told her in 4 years it might be. She smiled! She loves the car almost as much as I do. And I'm ok with that.
I noticed Jay's Miata has the Flying Miata duals, which sound pretty awesome! Had a set of those, a Hard Dog twin rollbar and the dog-bowl gas cap on my black & tan '99.
So when does Jay start the best US auto show? I'll watch.
8 років тому+1
I bought my Miata NA 19 years ago - and I still love this little sportscar. Thank's to Mazda for their courage. And thank you for the longtime-quality - my miata is now 26 years old and in good condition, much better than the most other cars of that time.
My first car was a 1990 Miata. I was working for my friends dad that summer and asked him what he would sell it to me for. We agreed at $1,500. The day I drove it out of his driveway is the day I learned how to drive manual. I briefly had a 2006 but found a 2018 I was in love with on scene. Still have my 2018 and love it more and more everyday. The Miata holds a special place in my heart and will always!
Love my 97. I have the same roll bar and blinker intakes and a badge on the back that says "size matters". I get so many compliments girls always put their Windows down at stop lights to say something. Of course since I'm a guy I get made fun of by other guys, but what do I care !?
I'd need two of them, one for each foot, but I've always admired the MX-5. What's not to love about an MGB that runs? (Yes, MG guys, I'm trolling you, sit down. :)
It's actually more of a Triumph Spitfire - you know - the Spitfire that works. I moved to an MX-5 after a long break from a Triumph GT6 (that worked sometimes - and when it did - WOW!). I'm now on my third MX-5 - a 2010 copper red with leather (tan trim). I've loved all three and may well move on to a fourth.
I am surprised this thread is not a one giant flame war like it usually is when Miata's are the topic of discussion. My faith in the internet humanity has been restored.
i guarantee that Jay employs at least one if not a team of guys and gals to police his accounts for just those types of flamewars. He's such an awesome example of carguy^10 I don't think he'd allow such petty bickering. Sort of like the head of your local car club coming over and separating the Mk1 golf guys from the MkV guys
Thanks to these two gentlemen I am driving a 2016 Miata. I made the 'mistake' of driving one recently and bought one within the week. Really, really fun car to drive.
"this is costing us less than expected' so instead of pocketing the cash, Mazda actually told the engineers to put the rest of the budget into more technology for an even better product? Now That's Love!
Found you 😁
Where's the Miata? Here's the Miata
Miata
Is
Always
The
Answer
Ohhhh you doin some Miata research??? I better see a new video about Miatas
But bladed, you found the miata
This is a relevant, personal story:
I bought a Miata the year they came out in 1989. They were very hard to find and wildly popular. (I got mine on a fluke drive---paid sticker price, too.)
I was showing off my new car to a friend one late weekday morning, driving on Sunset Boulevard with the top down, when a vintage white Jaguar convertible of some kind starts catching up to us. The cars gets right alongside us, and behind the wheel of the Jag is Jay Leno. He's checking out my Miata! He smiles and yells out, "Hey, how do you like that car?"
I had no idea that he went on to be a fan of the Miata.
Guys like to put the car down, but those are people who never drove a Miata. I kept the car for ten years and loved it every single time I drove it. Never once had a problem with it.
You lucky duck I wish I bought one when the a Mazda Miata came out!
that is amazing best story ive heard in awhile!
Jay *WHO?*
I was 13 when the Miata came out and remember the hysteria fondly. If I recall correctly they stickered just under $14k but dealers were marking them up $4-5k. I ended up purchasing a 1997 right after my 21st birthday. Put on a Bell Autorotor, then a Flying Miata II turbo at 15 psi. Replaced the suspenion, put on a 4 pt rollbar, wheels, etc. Did all the work myself. That car was a massive point of pride of my early adulthood, have nothing but fond memories. Had it for 5 years, put 80k miles on it before I sold it to a friend after purchasing a low mileage '95 Dinan M3.
Been toying with the idea of getting one of the newer Miatas but I hardly drive anymore... maybe I should though.
@@brandall101 Who knows? Maybe a new Miata will give you plenty of reasons to go out for a drive!
Most smiles per gallon car
Coño, vicesat! Soy sub 😂
Pero hueno que te trae por aquí vice!! Puto amo
Ostia el viceee
damn right
Eres grande :)
"gearbox is nice" understatement of the year
Indeed it is - whereas "plenty of power" is the overstatement of the year...
@@simil-kung5610 it is turbocharged bro
BrateTebra123 t.z. Streptomicin za muski rod which one? The only miata that has a turbo is the mazdaspeed miata. And jays NA is supercharged not turbo.
@@BrateTebra123 sc not tc
I love so much about these cars but I remember the first I drove and my initial reaction was 'Wow, shifting gears is FUN!'. If anyone talks to me about my MX-5 I start by saying how much fun it is to drive and then talk about the gearbox. Perfect short shift, I can't even explain how much I love it.
The first time you drive one is the first time you understand. It's not about competing with other drivers for attention or speed. Its not about 'dropping an LS1' in it. It's about having fun with a car that fits like a glove, is soooo sweet to drive and doesn't shout 'look at me, look at me'. Brings a big smile to my face every time I drive along a twisty scenic road, just me and the car. Nothing else.
Love the Miata, wonderful little car. Whoever says it's a girl's car either hasn't driven it or are insecure in their masculinity.
styx85 all I can say is that the girls are buying a good bloody car
Doncha know that real men only drive cars that are crap? Reliable, good handling cars are for sissies. Real men drive things that will get you killed. Like a 911. Or an old corvair. Maybe a pinto with those long bolts that pierce the gas tanks. Those are REAL men's cars!
D.E.B. B real man is an opinion.
Of course it is not a girl's car... just like the current VW Beetle is not a girl's car... ; )
My "girls car" 97 Miata (black by the way ) would wipe out any "man's car " on a curvy country road....:-)
I've owned 2 Triumph Spitfires, a Corvette and a Miata and the Miata is the one I'll never sell. I have a 1991 BRG Miata LE that I've owned since 1991 and it really captures the small sports car feel and after 30+ years it's still as reliable as when I bought it.
i don't care what anyone says. Mazda MX-5 is the most brilliant car that has been ever created. it's simple, classic, and very fun to drive. it has absolutely no flaws.
I have a 1993 mx-5. I've had her 14 years. She's red with tan interior. Love her!! Zoom Zoom!
uhhh cupholders?
fvzz I've gone 5 years without cup holders I don't even notice
IL Motorsport redesigned the whole center console and has put cupholders in a better spot , google "IL motorsport MX5 center console"
Do you really going to eat inside a Miata?
That must be the best feeling in the world to see someone driving the car you designed with a smile on their face
Coming back to this video after I recently bought my 92 NA Miata, and boy is Jay right about it. Everything about the car just feels fit to you
College student and a proud owner of my 97 Miata. Yes I do get the "girly car" comments BUT I've yet to encounter a female classmate who denied my offer to give her a ride home once she saw my miata ;)
Dannngg! Shut that argument down right there! 😂
Same with my honda beat but I want to get a miata as well as soon as I have enough space for both
What color was your miata, btw?
My dad passed away in Morro Bay CA in 2004 and willed to me his 1995 Miata. I still have her, and will be buried in her. Of all the cool cars I've owned- 1955 Austin Healey BN1, 1963 Avanti, and 1962 Fuelie Vette, my darling Miata is the best. We love each other.
i drove a miata for the first time today. im buying one next week.
did u buy it?
+marc “TrueTurnupTosser” i bought another one 03 85k miles
good sir, what color? any plans for it? liking it?
+marc “TrueTurnupTosser” dark red, im in live with it.
1) exhaust system
2) coil overs
3) forced induction, kinda wanna do a turbo for peak HP, but i like the idea of mid range torque on a supercharger.
I like the idea of the supercharger, I searching for an exhaust as well. Trying to figure which one i like sound wise.
I'm an Industrial Design student at AAU learning under Tom and I got to get a ride from him in his personal Miata. That was a pretty cool feeling.
I first saw the Miata at the Chicago Autoshow in Feb 1988, fell in love with it. Brought home a factory brochure (very limited in supply), Went to my local dealer the next week, they knew nothing about the Miata. On several occasions I attempted to place an order, but no pricing was available, but finally in May of 1988 I found a saleswoman who would accept my order she wrote it up at 'factory list price). The demand was incredible, the dealers were getting up to $5000 over factory list, mine was finally delievered Oct 5, 1989 a Red Package B. I still have it, drove it across the country on old route 66, up the Pacific Coast Highway, raced with the SCCA for 5 years, averaged between 22 to 26 events a year, now have 165K on the clock, still runs flawlessly. I now live in SW Florida where I am able to drive it almost every day with the top down and the sweet sound of the exhaust in my ears. I go to the Sebring International Racetrack twice each year and drive 'track touring laps' during the HSR lunchtime. I love my Miata !
my dad just bought my sister her first car, we are surprising her with a RED 1992 mazda miata from USA imported to Canada... i can't wait to see the smile on her face. It's her dream car since she was 5 years old.
Long time ago, but, how’d it go? :)
@@Nikola85ZgCROasking the real questions
If you make fun of the Miata you obviously know nothing about cars
BOSS Anybody who doesn't "get" the Miata either hasn't been in one, or they're dead inside.
Not true...I make fun of them BUT I also have a NA and a NB...Along with a GenII Viper GTS and a Lexus RCF. They are very slow but at the same time, very fun to drive!
Never saw someone that made fun of them after driving one
killerskillet I daily a 93 and I have alot of fun daily driving it. It is slow but it feels fast and fun.
@@rolon-ew5kl im currently in the market for an NA. My dada has one and let me borrow it for the day, he told me your gonna want to buy one after driving one. I said, no way, well.....now I'm in the market for one and my pontiac firebird is up for sale.....HAHA
I'm 18 and this car is a dream. It's not one of those ridiculous FWD-hatchbacks but a little RWD sportscar...
A shame we lost all the British sportscars in the 70s / 80s, but at least this one keeps the rain out :D
Do what you can to make the dream come true! I just turned 18 and I own a 2007 PRHT 1.8 model, worked hard for two years to get it, but it was definitely worth it! Awesome car :)
TDUsafiro
Thankyou for your answer.
I'll try, trust me... Enjoy your car!
X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X Thanks!
Honestly, we lost those old British sports cars because they were garbage...lol. The Miata is the essence of the old British sports car without all of the rust, electrical, and mechanical problems.
Without the rust? :D
Hey Jay, I hope you are reading these comments. I just wanted to say that your sign off from the tonight show was a very generous and self deprecating gesture. You really made your family proud!! (Your mom and dad did a great job bringing you up!)
MIATA IS ALWAYS THE ANSWER THANK YOU TOM MATANO and BOB HALL
As I write this in 2021 my light blue NB2 Miata is sitting in the driveway. Today I had the top replaced for the first time, and with every change I make I drive home or drive around town and back just as happy as I can be with this car. It's twenty years old now; my father bought it new and I bought it from him six years ago. I know it's entire ownership history and it's been one of the most reliable cars I've owned, but it's also the most fun. I've never had a car that made me this content. Nothing else has, for me, ever come close.
My first experience with a miata was driving it back from a dealership after my buddy bought a car. He needed someone to drive his miata home so I did. I fell in love with it on the way home and wrote him a check for it the next day. He still regrets selling it to me, 1996 Miata M-edition. I have since turboed it and now it is exactly how I want it.
I think what a lot of people miss about these cars is their directness and feeling. The Japanese cars made in the 90's really seemed to integrate the driver into the whole experience. Todays cars seem to focus entirely on the car doing its thing, and the Driver is more a long for the ride. It's been pretty much all down hill these days which is really sad.
If you don't believe or understand what I mean, go drive a Japanese car from the 90's and you'll see what I mean. They might not have the most power (unless you're talking Skyline, Evo or Supra) but they have a connectedness with the driver that I haven't been able to find in modern cars.
Try a first gen Honda Fit Sport. 2008 was the last year it was made. My other car is a 95 Miata. They feel remarkably similar.
lots of smiles per gallon.
+vinish shetty class leading
3Soul ENT world leading
specially during track days.... bro
That dude in blue
Honestly probably the most
Headlights go up, headlights go down! Headlights go up, headlights go down! Headlights go up, headlights go down! Up. Down. Up. Down. Up. Down. Up. Down. Updownupdownupdownupdown!
Pop
Pop
Pop-pop up and down headlights!
Mine is a 94 i always keep it clean and still look like new! I just in love with my little Miata it is fun to drive and put a smile on my face! I dont need a $100,000 car just this one i am happy!😊
I bought my Miata 7/2/89 and still have it. It still looks like new. Mazda used to offer me a little money to test drive a new Miata. Once, I took the new model out for a spin and, when I got back, they said someone wanted to buy my 1990. I asked the guy what he wanted it for and he said that he wanted to race it. I told him, "Hell no! I didn't baby it for all these years so YOU could trash it!" Now I think it is time to take it out of the barn, service it, and take it for a spirited drive!
Did you get it up and running?
Great to here, I have 92 with 83k miles and love it with all my heart. Enjoy your miata
Donandnan Elmore.
Good on you mate.
I'd have done the same.
Donandnan Elmore my dad recently sold his 90 Miata with 53k miles original i was so mad when he sold it.
Why "baby" a Miata? You've had the car all this time and all you do is baby it lol.
That is a great video Jay,- thanks for interviewing the 2 people directly responsible for me Buying a 2016 Club soft top - Bob Hall and Tom Matano.
unless you've actually driven try not to insult it too much it is a very reliable sports car very firm on the road it's like a large Go kart in handling I'd love to drive this model Jay is driving !!!!
Too short. When I wake up tomorrow there had better be a 25 minute part 2 uploaded.
I love the fact that Jay and his staff take time to put these videos together for us to enjoy for free. Plus his access to top guests is a real joy.
I have a Miata. Wasn’t looking for one but I got a good deal. I’ve had it three years now. So fun!
I've owned two 1999 Mazda Miata's and I have to say, they are the most fun cars I have ever driven and raced. Watching this video makes me wish I had not sold my last one just a few weeks ago :(
My everyday car for 6 years now. Haven't stop smiling.
Proud Miata owner!
Not the fastest, but definitely most fun :)
Some people make fun of it, but nothing gets through the smile that it puts on your face
With an ls1 engine swap those people will stop laughing and start shitting their pants they make great sleepers!
They make fun because they envy you :D Proud owner of 1995 NA myself :D
I own and have owned many sports cars. Corvette, Z4, Porsche boxster and 911, caterham 7 and many more. I love all of them but I still drive my miata as a daily driver. Every car has a presents that you have to find and learn to love. I always come back to my 1990 miata. I'm not sure if it's the fact that I can replace every part of the car myself and for not much money, the fact that I have made it my own with heavy suspension modifications or what or just the fact that I get a smile every time I drive it. My brother doesn't get why I like it so much, but I think it's awesome that Jay Leno "the ultimate car guy" gets it.
Jay Leno is the biggest horder of cars ever. I'm jealous 😣
35 years in the car business and Jay's knowledge is that of an insider, I understand he has enough celebrity to open doors but.... his study and knowledge is beyond measure ... What a class act.
Will miss the show Jay glad to still have a connection...
I love the MX-5/Miata, it's epic for drifting & a hell of a lot of fun to drive, nice version Jay was driving :)
***** sounds like you need a little more driver mods. a Formula D car it is not, but its not difficult to drift by any stretch of the imagination.
***** dont worry this guy only plays video games on cars pretty much any car on forza can dirft it u put effort in it.
***** Not a drifters car EH, here you go then,
Turbo Mazda MX-5 Amazing Sound & Drifting
***** wow a video link? plus isnt tht a later model mx5 its not really holding the corners too well ive seen better at the race circuit down the road from me and that was a bmw
***** Look up the 8 bit Miata. I honestly hate people that drift Miatas, but that car blew my mind haha
Of all the tributes this is the first one I see with the original creators with so much back story. Amazing, I didn't know any of that. Thank you, Jay! And thank you creators
Thanks for this Jay....I was very tired hearing about my '97 being a girl's car. I wanted a MG that wouldn't break down and this has been the best car I've ever owned.
His NA is a beauti imo. I like to keep things simple and his fits the bill. Made me almost get one.
The MX5 Miata has long been one of my favorite cars, its small, light weight, handles amazingly, even stock. Its unfortunate that there are so many people who don't realize just what a Miata can do, they just see it as a "happy hairdresser's" car!
I drive a 1990 Mazda Miata and I absolutely love it. Never did I see myself owning one. But now that I do, it's one of the best cars in the world.
My '97 is still revving in 2023! Wonderful little car. Jay's chuckle as he comes out of the corner says it all.
Puts a massive smile on my face every time I drive my miata no other car has ever done that !
I own one now since 4 months and it's the best car ever, so pure and so amazing 👌👌👌👌
I recently bought a used 10th AE, what a magnificent little machine it is. I'm in love.
its not muscle car, its not a sleeper, its a roadster that was ment for touge understand the concepts of it before you start saying negative comments about it... my opinion?? this was one of the best cars i ever driven
Yep really fun at high speeds. I recommend you try to drive some classic britsh roasters. The spitfire and alpha spider are really beautiful and fun
I bought my 4th one last yr. 1st brand new car ever purchased - 23’ Touring RF. Love it! Wife & I will be enjoying trips as we head into retirement.
Coming up to 30 years.
Love my import mk1. Gonna try to keep it forever
me too. tough though, as I don't have a full garage to store it in...
5:33 - that smile & laugh right there is why you buy this car. So much fun to drive.
I live near the mountains and it will literally hug the road. The more you downshift and hit the gas the more it hugs. It is FUN car, not super fast, but plain fun. My Dad bought it new in 1992 and I just laughed until I drove it. Fun :)
Other than my dogs, my Miata is the most fun, therapeutic, rewarding, joyous, and just plain satisfying thing in my life! To drive it is to realize what a brilliantly designed and engineered car is. I feel it's actually an extension of me, it's that responsive, that connected to the driver. And it"s reliable, a true bargain, and looks gangbusters! To me, there are Miatas, and then all other cars!
These cars are so much fun to drive as you go through the five speed manual. I can't believe there are some people that buy them with automatics, what a waste.
+bohemianracer to each his own- newer versions with the paddle shifters aren't bad at all but I agree generally that manual is the way to go
my friend had a paddle shifted one and it's just practical for traffic. it's sluggish in auto but scoots in manual mode
I think changing the transmission would not be to difficult, however I would just sell the automatic car and just buy yourself a manual.
I agree accept I have a six speed manual.
I bought a 2006 Miata right off the delivery truck and loved it for 84,000 miles when last spring I found a well maintained 25th Anniversary Edition for sale and couldn't pass it up...wish I could have kept both of them but only room for one! What a fun car!
I just bought a 1993 miata 1.6 so far. I love it
I just got one and I'm restoring it with my son. It was made 6/89 and we are having a blast and what a great car!
Track day bro!
regular car reviews reference. you are awesome my good sir. hoosires bro!
It's the best sports car! Number 1!
Angel Christov LOL!!! hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah now THAT was fucking funny
Angel Christov NUMBER ONE. WE'RE THE BEST. NUMBER#1
its the best sports car. its better than anything
Love my Mazda Miata and was a pleasure getting to check out Jay's collection as well - Cheers!
From one Miata owner to another JayLenosGarage here is to another 25 years of setting the standard with the Miata.
Bought a 93 about a month ago....after my son bought a 90 before that.....I loved his....and mine is great....Owned a 67 corvette with 427 with pop top and convert...this is the same with less power, of course but handles twice as well! LOVE IT
The answer is always Miata.
Ron Chen yeah but if you want to feel alive buy an mx5
Oh my god, ther are the SAME Miata is just what Americans call it.
Eric Cartman It was a joke Eric, I thought you of all people would understand jokes, now sit in the corner and feel ashamed
+Eric Cartman Nope 1st MX5 was european Market - Miata was American Market and also built in US. Bodypanels from european Cars didnt fit to US cars and vice versa. No Europe Dealer could sell US Parts back in the day you have to get them from the US. They even look different no MX5 has a 3rd Breaklight, no Miata had 2 of them.
+Israeli shitbag Miata Is Always The Answer. M.I.A.T.A.
As an owner of the '99 NB model, I already did 330 000km without a single problem. Best car I ever had (had quite a few!), it will stay in my garage for ever.
My message to Mazda : PLEASE keep it that simple!
Does anyone know if Jay ever reviewed an Rx-7? It would be cool to hear his opinion on them.
Growing up on the Northern California coast I learned to drive in my brothers' TR 3 and Spitfire . Driving top down in the cool ocean fog delighted our English souls. Fast forward to 1990 and I bought my first Mx5. That same feeling with out burning oil and mechanic bills. The best of California soul, English inspiration and Japanese brains.
nicely said
yeah its a girls car- you know because everytime I either have a different girl in it or ones that want a ride in it- .......slams the mic down
honestly i think most convertible feels like a girl's car to non car people.
-no one
yeah when i see a convertible 350z im like thats the ugliest thing you could have done to such a beautiful car and ofc it's a woman driving and its usually auto :P
Alpine
Maximus Minimus here here 👍
That little chuckle from Jay as he accelerated out of a corner said it all. That's what the MX5 gives you. It's not the fastest, it's not the lightest, but for a car that you can drive every day there's nothing that'll give you that chuckle better.
it's funny, I was just asking about Jay's Miata, I thought he was too shy to say he had a Miata in his garage, let alone admit he has owned one for many years. I think I might want to own one some day, but I think I want a 79 Corvette, red.
I’m currently watching this whilst sitting in my NC. Truly a car that provides the most smiles per gallon. :)
I owned a 2006 MX-5 (3rd Gen model), and added cold air intake, new headers & muffler, sticky tires on 17" rims, Bilsteins, sways, and other goodie; and Man, oh man that car was fun to drive, and full of torque. I also own a 1997 911 and 2005 Ferrari as well, and I loved the Miata for short sprints and twisty mountain runs, which is hard to beat. Felt more comfortable in that car around tight corners and twisties than any other car I've driven. You really feel one with the car, and it reacts perfectly to your every move. You feel like you're going a lot faster than you are, which makes driving around town much, much more fun (without getting a ticket). The car gets a bad rap as girl's car, and it's too bad, really not correct. But unfortunately that rap is not going away. It's probably the best, most fun car you can buy for the money, easy to upgrade, and as Jay said: It's all you really ever need (coming from a guy who owns over 100 cars). The top comes down in 2 seconds flat!! I mean two seconds (on 3rd gen., manual top cars). Yes, the Porsche and Ferrari are far far better cars, no question. But for the money, I don't think there's too many better cars out there. Plus you can beat it up, track it, and not care about damaging it. If you don't have "badge" hangups, it's the car to buy (can get pretty cheap used too).
Just bought a NC 2012 model. I don't care what anyoe says (my friend was like "dude DON'T get a Friggen MIATA!"). It's all about me and the car and we are one when I drive it. Jinba Ittai!!! (Horse and rider as one, a Japanese saying, and the principle that drove the car's design).
I owned a 1997 Miata for over five years and loved it. All I ever did to it was drive it and change the oil regularly. Dead reliable and wonderful to drive. Mine had been tweaked with by the previous owner so it handled better and was quicker than a stock one. I did put a real roll bar in mine though, Jay needs to up grade from the chrome dress up tubing behind him to something that could actually protect him in case it ever turned over. Other than that, it's a great looking car.
Don't chase trends...make ones!...
In the winter of 2002, i flew down to L.A. and bought a '92 MX5, had some Blizzaks put on and drove it home to Alaska. Was charging up hills in the Canadian Rockies while semis were pulled over chaining up. Still have it. Great car.
My little 1995 Miata is still running as sharp as it did when I bought it in 1998. But I am 77 years old and don't drive it as much as I once did. Have never had any major repairs, and only a fender bender once. LOVE my chic car but do get a lot stares when this ole grey haired lady flies by, passing the big SUVs...
JoJo I'm 66 and love zipping around and taking road trips in my '99 Miata that I've had since '06! Great little car, hope to be driving it when I'm 77 and beyond.
@@stormmary1 23 years old and just got a 91 miata special edition in British racing green/ tan interior 6 months ago. They will live on.
@@kleeb5742 congratulations! Enjoy!
It's the most fun you can have within the speed limit. It's a true classic sportscar.
What! No burnout?! :D
"This is all I really need...plenty of power.." Sure that may be true if one drives a Miata with a Jackson Racing supercharger.
I have a 1990 Miata. I used to have a Morgan 4+4 (1600cc, 60 HP, 1,450 lb), Triumph TR-8 3.5 liter V8, BMW Z4 3.5 IS (twin turbo, 7sp auto double clutch). The most fun sports cars were the Morgan, 60HP and the Miata, 116HP. You can PLAY with those cars, throw them around corners and go through the gears and you’re not breaking every speed law know to man. The BMW was too fast to play and too computer controlled.
Never met you in person Jay, but I am hoping with all my heart that when you get bored with the traveling and break-taking associated with retirement, you will continue creating these awesome weekly gems that I and many others look forward to. It is much appreciated.
When the original Miata model came out; they sold for 8-10k over sticker price. -Talk about right place, right time :)
I used to restore Triumph Spitfires. But in 1989 when I first saw a Miata I was hooked. Years later I bouth a 15 year old 2001 Miata. Little by little I have a pretty solid car. The car had 108,000 miles on it. The VVT 1.8 Litre engine runs like it just came out of the factory. I love this car and when driving it I feel very safe and in control. I will take this car to my grave. HI JAY!
Jay, you need a rollbar, not a style bar.
I thought that was a style bar, then figured he'd found a real roll bar in stainless steel, but you're right!
I concur. The car is beautiful and it has obviously had lots of performance tweaks. Please put an actual roll bar in this car. I would hate for you to get hurt and I would hate that my favorite car hurt you. I'd be willing to bet Hard Dog or Boss Frog would give you a nice one just for the prestige of you using it. A beauty bar just instills a false sense of security.
Hard Dog Roll Bar
I was an auto tech at a Hackensack, NJ Ford/Mazda dealer from '76 - '86. At the time they were selling RX-3, RX-4, Cosmos as I recall. Mazda's Factory rep used to pay almost monthly visits to the dealer & he told me if the RX-7 didn't sell it may be the end of Mazda. When they were released there was a 6 month wait to get one. The apex seal issues were fixed, there were no more engine issues... the car sold like hotcakes!!! I used to road test them on Rte. 80 and spin them 6,000, 7,000 RPM's no problem. The RX-7 was awesome!!!!
Most smiles per gallon.... Reminds me of SEATs "SEAT Enjoyneering"
My son recently bought a 1990. I love driving that car!
My 12 y/o Daughter asked me if my Miata was a girls car. I told her in 4 years it might be. She smiled! She loves the car almost as much as I do. And I'm ok with that.
That is sweet :-)
Idk I felt like commenting this Jesus saves and he is loving.
@@jorgevargas4208 wha?
His vignette can be beautiful w/o branding
@@Yowzoe What branding?
I noticed Jay's Miata has the Flying Miata duals, which sound pretty awesome! Had a set of those, a Hard Dog twin rollbar and the dog-bowl gas cap on my black & tan '99.
So when does Jay start the best US auto show? I'll watch.
I bought my Miata NA 19 years ago - and I still love this little sportscar. Thank's to Mazda for their courage. And thank you for the longtime-quality - my miata is now 26 years old and in good condition, much better than the most other cars of that time.
+Rüdiger Frey I bought 1995 model 21 years ago and I'm still driving it, and is in great condition.
My first car was a 1990 Miata. I was working for my friends dad that summer and asked him what he would sell it to me for. We agreed at $1,500. The day I drove it out of his driveway is the day I learned how to drive manual. I briefly had a 2006 but found a 2018 I was in love with on scene. Still have my 2018 and love it more and more everyday. The Miata holds a special place in my heart and will always!
I I never smiled more when I drive a Miata
Love my 97. I have the same roll bar and blinker intakes and a badge on the back that says "size matters". I get so many compliments girls always put their Windows down at stop lights to say something. Of course since I'm a guy I get made fun of by other guys, but what do I care !?
TrapBum I have a 93 and it is a chick magnet. They want to talk to me and check me out in it.
what color was yours?
Jay, you don't know how long i have been waiting for this episode. I drive a 1990 na and i love every second of it. Keep up the good work.
I'd need two of them, one for each foot, but I've always admired the MX-5. What's not to love about an MGB that runs? (Yes, MG guys, I'm trolling you, sit down. :)
It's actually more of a Triumph Spitfire - you know - the Spitfire that works. I moved to an MX-5 after a long break from a Triumph GT6 (that worked sometimes - and when it did - WOW!). I'm now on my third MX-5 - a 2010 copper red with leather (tan trim). I've loved all three and may well move on to a fourth.
Learned some neat history about my car today. Didn't know they were designed in the USA and the best selling sports car = pretty cool.
I am surprised this thread is not a one giant flame war like it usually is when Miata's are the topic of discussion. My faith in the internet humanity has been restored.
i guarantee that Jay employs at least one if not a team of guys and gals to police his accounts for just those types of flamewars. He's such an awesome example of carguy^10 I don't think he'd allow such petty bickering. Sort of like the head of your local car club coming over and separating the Mk1 golf guys from the MkV guys
THE SMILES PER GALLON IS A REAL THING .
The ND model is the best Miata I have owned. Mazda went back to the origianal and made the car lighter and I believe more responsive to drive.
My first car was a 1959 MGA. I now own a 1991 Miata NA. I've had 5 different NA"s in 20 years. I love them!
35 Years of Miata and counting… - 2024
Thanks to these two gentlemen I am driving a 2016 Miata. I made the 'mistake' of driving one recently and bought one within the week. Really, really fun car to drive.