I've rented the MX-5 several times at a dealership during the summer. In terms of fun it leaves behind so many much higher priced cars, it's just unbelievable. Pure driving pleasure at a reasonable price - thank you so much, Mazda!
I agree with your take. The RF is a great design experiment. I like that it's a targa roof, but for me the full experience of an MX-5 is had with the soft top. It goes up and down in literally two seconds or less, you save the weight, costs less, and you get that full open air experience. When I buy one I'll be surprised if the RF takes my money.
Great review! Was wondering how good the auto is, I am an amputee, left leg above the knee. I can still drive manual, but it would be easier to get an auto. Thanks
I have only driven the Fiat version with an automatic so I can't be sure it's calibrated the same. It's fine but doesn't have the crispness of a VW dual clutch. I can certainly understand why you'd choose the autobox.
chris k...just do it, but wait a few years, maybe they'll add: back-up camera, Apple/Android Play, telescoping steering wheel, increase the speed of rf operation.
Test drove one today and I can testify: AMAZING. One thing that surprised me, it was a pretty soft ride over potholes and city roads, and not so much lean in the sport trim. Where I found the top-down soft-top experience loud and kind of painful after a little highway time, the RF was mellow and even pleasant. Question for Tom: how come no manual steering in this? Would be even better in twisties, and lighter, no? This will be my next car I think, coming from an up-trim Golf, it was that good.
Enthusiasts can get to that point of "careful what you wish for" and that might be the case with manual steering. I remember it being pretty heavy when it was available in the base Miata 27 years ago. You would have to ask the product planners on that but considering how they sweat the details I'll guess they got it right.
Fair point! My memory of manual steering is that it's heavier / harder to turn at slower speeds, so maybe they felt you rarely go fast enough in the MX-5 to really benefit too. Manual steering therefore would make more sense in the Alfa 4C, i.e. more faster driving more often. By the way I found the YT channel Motoman has an interview with the Mazda engineer on this, and they don't touch this issue but it's worth the watch / you might check that out too. Thanks again Monsieur V, your reviews make me happy.
Just bought a 2017 GS Sport Package with Recoro seats, Brembo and BBS wheels! Should be picking it up next week. I was going to buy a 2005 Honda S2000… then I drove it… it’s so anemic below VTech. This will be my 7th Miata MX5in 20 years! I even had a 2004 Mazdaspeed for a few years! Looking forward to the ND!
I noticed that your Miata doesn't have air conditioning. No a/c button on the fan dial. I had a 1996 with no a/c too. Good to know you like to keep it real. Respect.
I have a base 2017 RF here in Australia. Came with cross traffic alert, traction control, reverse camera, cruise control etc. Can't believe how light the car is despite having so much kit. And yes, it's absolutely piss funny to drive.
How about driving with side windows down? On the MR2 Spyder the air stream is channeled between the A-pillar and the mirror right into the left ear, making it unusable for driving with windows down at speeds faster than 25 mph. Also, I wish the stupid tablet - which does not even have Android Auto - was optional.
It did not have that wind issue, at least for me. There is some chatter, not confirmed, that AA and CP will be able to be retro fitted to 2017 Mazdas. Just a rumor...
Tom - I had a 1992 NA, so I have this question for you about the soft top. On the warmest days in Seattle (which may not be too many), wouldn't you rather have the hardtop over your head? When I had mine, it was in the midwest with frequent 90+ degree temps and I'd bake in the soft top of my Miata. You say, "well, put the top down then!" Putting the top down on the hottest days would demand more frequent dermatologist exams. Just sayin'...if you lived in a climate with more extreme hot weather, your opinion might change about having the hardtop. As always, well done review.
I grew up in Minnesota so I know the conditions you speak of but, nope, I personally prefer the soft top because of the wide open roadster dynamic. I would wear a hat and sunscreen with the top down. That's just me. I don't have AC in my car but I have to believe that would take care of that. Perhaps an aftermarket tan top when the first one goes bad? That would easily be a dozen years though...
Saw another review with two guys. The one complains about the blindspot. The other challenges him and walks around the car. "Can you see me now?" as he walks around. Never does he not see him in some mirror or directly. Finally the other guy admits, no blindspot. I don't think this unique to the MX-5 though. People are always complaining about blindspots in cars when there are none IF you adjust your mirrors correctly.
Man, you don't drive your original much! The clean one I bought has 130,700 miles on it now. Its so much fun. I'm using it to try and talk my dad into an RF
Yeah, I'm always driving other people's cars so I don't get much of a chance with mine. I just had it gone through with a new water pump and timing chain. Now it's time for new tires. Sad that the tread is fine but they need to be replaced due to age.
After test driving manual transmissions in Mazda mx-5 club and touring, Porsche Cayman, Nissan 370Z, Toyota F86, Mustang V8, Camaro 4 turbo, Camaro V6, Camaro V8, Corvette, I purchased a 2017 Corvette. The Mazda mx-5 manual transmission is unreliable (go to Mazda website for TSB on mazda mx-5). I bought a red 2017 Corvette 1LT manual transmission with performance exhaust, black wheels, red calipers, red seats, carbon badge package.
Oh yeah, definitely. If I had a bigger backup vehicle I would definitely get one of these right here to drive around everywhere. I just need to do a VQ37 swap on the frs, hehe
The whole "worried about thiefs slicing your top open?" thing is kinda redundant... If a thief really wants to get into your car there just gonna break the window lol....
Mazda is so annoying.They don't offer a tilt/telescoping steering wheel to "save weight" but they add a hard to roof. Nothing like adding 70lbs above a cars center of gravity. for $35k this car should have what every other car currently in production in the NA market has
what ever you say my friend, but as for me, this is not "your miata" and yeah, this - one - is a "chick's car" nice percentage of which are true drivers! (60% manual: love it)
Keep your honest reviews going sir. Appreciate your critical reviews, nice car. This is a Drivers car, haters have no idea.
I've rented the MX-5 several times at a dealership during the summer. In terms of fun it leaves behind so many much higher priced cars, it's just unbelievable. Pure driving pleasure at a reasonable price - thank you so much, Mazda!
Great photography as always. The car's styling looks great too.
Need way more videos from you, you have such a great personality and your reviews are always enjoyable!
I agree with your take. The RF is a great design experiment. I like that it's a targa roof, but for me the full experience of an MX-5 is had with the soft top. It goes up and down in literally two seconds or less, you save the weight, costs less, and you get that full open air experience. When I buy one I'll be surprised if the RF takes my money.
Great review! Was wondering how good the auto is, I am an amputee, left leg above the knee. I can still drive manual, but it would be easier to get an auto. Thanks
I have only driven the Fiat version with an automatic so I can't be sure it's calibrated the same. It's fine but doesn't have the crispness of a VW dual clutch. I can certainly understand why you'd choose the autobox.
I actually like this better than the soft top. Still an awesome car!! Soooooo fun to drive!!
I cannot stop staring at this. Tempting me to trade in son and yellow lab in on one.
I recommend against it. You won't have a dog to guard the car.
chris k...just do it, but wait a few years, maybe they'll add: back-up camera, Apple/Android Play, telescoping steering wheel, increase the speed of rf operation.
Á Coruña lol you must be a prophet!
Test drove one today and I can testify: AMAZING. One thing that surprised me, it was a pretty soft ride over potholes and city roads, and not so much lean in the sport trim. Where I found the top-down soft-top experience loud and kind of painful after a little highway time, the RF was mellow and even pleasant. Question for Tom: how come no manual steering in this? Would be even better in twisties, and lighter, no? This will be my next car I think, coming from an up-trim Golf, it was that good.
Enthusiasts can get to that point of "careful what you wish for" and that might be the case with manual steering. I remember it being pretty heavy when it was available in the base Miata 27 years ago. You would have to ask the product planners on that but considering how they sweat the details I'll guess they got it right.
Fair point! My memory of manual steering is that it's heavier / harder to turn at slower speeds, so maybe they felt you rarely go fast enough in the MX-5 to really benefit too. Manual steering therefore would make more sense in the Alfa 4C, i.e. more faster driving more often. By the way I found the YT channel Motoman has an interview with the Mazda engineer on this, and they don't touch this issue but it's worth the watch / you might check that out too. Thanks again Monsieur V, your reviews make me happy.
Thanks for talking about the "cons" for the RF vs the rag top
Just bought a 2017 GS Sport Package with Recoro seats, Brembo and BBS wheels! Should be picking it up next week. I was going to buy a 2005 Honda S2000… then I drove it… it’s so anemic below VTech. This will be my 7th Miata MX5in 20 years! I even had a 2004 Mazdaspeed for a few years! Looking forward to the ND!
I noticed that your Miata doesn't have air conditioning. No a/c button on the fan dial. I had a 1996 with no a/c too. Good to know you like to keep it real. Respect.
I specifically chose mine without AC. Not much of a need for it in Seattle and the lack of it helps performance a smidge.
I have a base 2017 RF here in Australia. Came with cross traffic alert, traction control, reverse camera, cruise control etc. Can't believe how light the car is despite having so much kit. And yes, it's absolutely piss funny to drive.
How Tom keeps his hair stay the same despite having the Miata's top down, we'll never know.
It's special TV hair. Made of carbon fiber.
I bet it also adds a bit more aerodynamics to the Miata. 😂😂
Great review as always, Tom! 👌👌👌
Great video, cool seeing your old girl strutting her stuff.
How about driving with side windows down? On the MR2 Spyder the air stream is channeled between the A-pillar and the mirror right into the left ear, making it unusable for driving with windows down at speeds faster than 25 mph. Also, I wish the stupid tablet - which does not even have Android Auto - was optional.
It did not have that wind issue, at least for me. There is some chatter, not confirmed, that AA and CP will be able to be retro fitted to 2017 Mazdas. Just a rumor...
Tom! When will you be reviewing the 2019 MX-5? Can't wait to hear your thoughts on the updates!
Tom - I had a 1992 NA, so I have this question for you about the soft top. On the warmest days in Seattle (which may not be too many), wouldn't you rather have the hardtop over your head? When I had mine, it was in the midwest with frequent 90+ degree temps and I'd bake in the soft top of my Miata. You say, "well, put the top down then!" Putting the top down on the hottest days would demand more frequent dermatologist exams. Just sayin'...if you lived in a climate with more extreme hot weather, your opinion might change about having the hardtop. As always, well done review.
I grew up in Minnesota so I know the conditions you speak of but, nope, I personally prefer the soft top because of the wide open roadster dynamic. I would wear a hat and sunscreen with the top down. That's just me. I don't have AC in my car but I have to believe that would take care of that.
Perhaps an aftermarket tan top when the first one goes bad? That would easily be a dozen years though...
Awesome review. There's nothing like driving a Miata.
Saw another review with two guys. The one complains about the blindspot. The other challenges him and walks around the car. "Can you see me now?" as he walks around. Never does he not see him in some mirror or directly. Finally the other guy admits, no blindspot. I don't think this unique to the MX-5 though. People are always complaining about blindspots in cars when there are none IF you adjust your mirrors correctly.
So when are you going to upgrade to the latest MX-5, so I can snag the '90 model off of ya, Tom?!
Ain't going to happen, I really enjoy my car. Lots of memories.
:( Was worth a shot! :)
One of my friend is a extreme Miata fanboy. He owns a 97 NA and a 16 ND, both are manual and have LSD
Superb handling
Love your work. Thanks.
love this car. hate the price. will get a used one in 3 years.
My plan as well. Buy in '19 or '20
Two years to go! :)
3 years has passed. Got one?! 😉
@@ivobornas nope!! Used prices are still too high!😣
@@ALT3REDB3AST True. Thats also my plan. But a used one from 2016 its still around 20k € :/
Looks amazing.
great review
I just picked mine up. I Luv it
great review !!!!
Can you lower the roof witht he keyfob?
To be honest, I don't know. Didn't check that out.
Man, you don't drive your original much! The clean one I bought has 130,700 miles on it now.
Its so much fun. I'm using it to try and talk my dad into an RF
Yeah, I'm always driving other people's cars so I don't get much of a chance with mine. I just had it gone through with a new water pump and timing chain. Now it's time for new tires. Sad that the tread is fine but they need to be replaced due to age.
After test driving manual transmissions in Mazda mx-5 club and touring, Porsche Cayman, Nissan 370Z, Toyota F86, Mustang V8, Camaro 4 turbo, Camaro V6, Camaro V8, Corvette, I purchased a 2017 Corvette. The Mazda mx-5 manual transmission is unreliable (go to Mazda website for TSB on mazda mx-5).
I bought a red 2017 Corvette 1LT manual transmission with performance exhaust, black wheels, red calipers, red seats, carbon badge package.
Great review as always, Tom! Which would you personally choose? the RF or ST?
Soft top for me
Good looking car, I have to say
I'm 6'3. Could I drive a Miata?
Depends on your torso/leg length. The only way to find out is to try. FYI, the RF has a half inch less headroom.
Makes me want to trade in my FRS but I need a trunk
The FRS is fun too, and a lot more practical.
Oh yeah, definitely. If I had a bigger backup vehicle I would definitely get one of these right here to drive around everywhere. I just need to do a VQ37 swap on the frs, hehe
I really wish mazda would turbo charge the mx-5s
Lots of after market solutions are out there. You can even have a V8 if you want!
The profile is nice but I hate fake windows. The soft top for me.
I would repaint the targa bit black. In two-tone is just badass
nice car but not available in india love to have one everyone says its awesome ..........want to drive one........
I was lost at no spare tire !
Hard Top? Soft Top? I take either one.
I would get a soft top one if I buy another one. Currently own a 2015 hard top version.
ST or no T!
Heh TV, do you use your Miata to go to your 2nd gig as a hairdresser?
jk
savage
The whole "worried about thiefs slicing your top open?" thing is kinda redundant... If a thief really wants to get into your car there just gonna break the window lol....
But slicing the top calls far less attention to the process
Picked up my 2021 RF a week a ago. Best driver’s car I hv driven in my life but that blind spot. Urgh! Mazda cld hv done better.
not without a snail, sorry.
Mazda is so annoying.They don't offer a tilt/telescoping steering wheel to "save weight" but they add a hard to roof. Nothing like adding 70lbs above a cars center of gravity. for $35k this car should have what every other car currently in production in the NA market has
Yes, a telescoping wheel would be a good addition.
Driven Car Reviews Tom as always, amazing work! Really do your takes. Always refreshing
I like your's better.
That Targa look sucks.
I know that it's a sexy car (I have one) but does he really need to buy 30 toilet rolls?
Ya he needed that. It’s Covid time remember ? 😂
Just not enough hp.
what ever you say my friend, but as for me, this is not "your miata" and yeah, this - one - is a "chick's car" nice percentage of which are true drivers! (60% manual: love it)