The Mazda MX-5 Miata Had No Chance of Success - Full History - Revelations with Jason Cammisa
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- Опубліковано 18 жов 2023
- This is the unlikely success story of the Mazda MX-5 Miata: the world's bestselling 2-seat roadster and the only remaining true lightweight sports car.
It almost never happened in the first place. Had its makers listened to the experts, it never would have happened. And if Mazda listened to its own customers, it would have never succeeded.
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The Mazda Miata has succeeded where every other lightweight sports car has failed, by decidedly NOT giving the customer what they want. No more weight, complexity, speed, or luxury.
On this episode of Hagerty's Revelations with Jason Cammisa, we welcome special guest and father of the Miata, Tom Matano, to tell the story of how the Miata has survived economic downturns and done the impossible.
In the process, it's proven every other carmaker wrong - cars can indeed be light, simple, and fun, even while meeting modern emissions and safety regulations.
But it all almost never happened - battles between Mazda's North American office, which conceived the Lotus Elan-like roadster, almost resulted in a front-wheel drive or mid-engined car, and led the original team with Matano and Bob Hall, to ask for the project to be killed off.
Forget the whole thing. Just kill it.
Thankfully, Mazda didn't. And 35 years later, the Miata reigns King of Sports Cars, selling the same amount of cars in the US every year as Porsche sells 911s - despite the 911's incredibly broad product offering. - Авто та транспорт
I worked at a Mazda dealer years ago, and one of the old mechanics told me that when the first model arrived in 1989, the sales manager had him take it for a spin. Two cars followed him back to the dealership and put in an order. Neither knew what it was until they saw it on the road that day.
whata good story
The first Miata I ever saw was in 1989 and was being driven by its new owner who had also just seen it for the first time that day while driving past the dealer lot. The owner literally couldn't remember what it was called when I asked. It was mesmerizing then, and remains so to this day.
That's an awesome story. I think the fact that the car looks more expensive than it was (as per the focus group) helps in convincing would be buyers into actual customers.
I rented a ND on turo while on vacation and bought one the day I got back. I just couldn't live without one the moment I drove it.
That is awesome!
For those who don’t know, Tom Matano is also the the main man responsible for the design of the last RX7.
Bro must be goated
Oh you mean literally one of the best looking cars of all time? What an absolute legend.
he isnt a designer, he is a legend
The last RX-7 design was penned by Wu-huang Chin at Mazda's design studio in Irvine, California. Tom Matano was his boss.
How am i not surprised lol. The NA Miata and FD RX7 look like brother and sister
So nice to see Tom Matano being given the kudos and appreciation he deserves!
Totally agree
He is truly a treasure. I have had a couple opportunities to meet him and his affection for the Miata--and the Miata community--is delightful. I will forever be thankful for Tom, Bob, and the rest of the team that made the Miata a reality.
It’s so great to see Tom Matano in the video. I had a chance to co-judge a class with him at the Marin Concours and Inthink we talked about Miatas nonstop for hours. I have owned two 1.6 NAs over the years and regret selling them. One I owned for 14 years and it never needed anything other than maintenance.
Tom receives nothing but love, gratitude and warm welcomes everywhere he goes in the Miata community. Tom and Bob are both legends and their names will be spoken until long after the last Miata has turned to rust.
My wife’s grandmother bought a 1990 Miata in 1993 from her friend, who had owned it since new. Her friend, going through a divorce and in need of money, sold it. Over the years, Grandma took exceptionally good care of it, always going to the dealer for maintenance and storing it every winter. Grandma kept it until 2015 when it was passed down to my wife. Unfortunately, my wife had a bad accident while playing ringette, shattering her ankle. Her ankle never fully recovered, making it challenging to push the clutch. I now drive and care for the car, taking my wife along for drives. The car holds special memories because of her grandmother, and my wife refuses to sell it due to its unique story. It continues to create new chapters each day and will always hold a special place in our hearts. Not only because of its story, but because they got it just right!
Love that story! Eventually she will be able to pass it down to a 3rd generation in your family. We have a 1978 Dodge truck that my son now owns. He's the fourth generation to own the car. My grandpa bought it new in 1978.
Today I learned about ringette. Thanks for that. 👍
Maybe think about upgrading to a hydraulic release bearing. kpower makes one and it would make it way less hard to push in the clutch. There are other ways to make it easier to push for people with disabilities.
I also know a couple who love their Miatas and the longtime girlfriend is disabled and can't drive a third pedal. Have fun!!
It’s a good day when a Jason Cammisa episode releases!!
And it's even better if it's about the mx-5
And the boy sure can drive ! 😎
Truly
Hell yeah brother
yes it is!!
"dont give them what they want. Just give them a good time" SO TRUE!!!!
Every UI/UX designer worth their salt knows this.
For the guys out there....this applies to women too.
True, SUV's are a testament to this philosophy, people want them but they suck.
@@TimSlee1 I think the philosophy is more about not giving the customer what they ask for, but rather what they actually want but don't know it.
That's why crossovers have been so successful despite everyone claiming to dislike them. Nobody dreams of driving a crossover, the designs are usually meh, arguably it's just a hatchback on stilts, but after dealing with a car seat in a hatchback or sedan for a year, every new parent is rushing out to buy one. SUVs are stupid in a lot of cases because they have more space than most families need, cost way more, and get far worse gas mileage. Crossovers solve all that by just lifting a hatchback for convenience and comfort. Ask any car guy and he'll tell you he hates them, but I bet his wife has one that he has to drive all the time because screw bending over to cram the car seat in his car.
@@Michael-uc2pn That and SUV's are given massive tax breaks by the government which provides far less incentive to make hatch-backs. I hate this timeline.
I’m 21 years old, I’ve been working ever since I could and I’ve always wanted an MX5. When I bought my first car I decided to be more sensible and get a hot hatch but today I made the choice to enjoy life and placed my order. I’m so excited.
We had an NA Miata for 13 years, but decided, at age 60, that we were too old and the Miata too impractical. We lasted 1.5 years without one, but missed it so much we bought a used 2007 NC. It remains our daily driver (and I have a 2005 Porsche Carrera S too). Bang for the buck, the Miata is absolutely unbeatable. So much fun! Great video.
I guess this is my "hall pass" to get a Miata! (I'll be 62 in April...)
def too old for a porsche
I'm 72, and just bought my first Miata. 2012 Grand Touring PRHT. Love it!
@@digitalbreakthroughs show off :)
The only problem i see with this series is that right after finishing an episode I immediately start looking for the cars mentioned in used marketplaces. Just to realise I can't afford any of them.
Even this episode? Ouch 😅
@@kleinbottled79 You can buy NB for like 1000-2000 dollars (for trashing on a track or as a first shitbox), even almost every student can afford that by getting any job at the supermarket or mcDonalds :D
A brand new ND at Turkey available from 68k USD. NA ones around 30-35k USD
@@deXXXXter2 where I live miatas at least go for like 3000€, but that's for high mileage ones that you know will fall apart after a few thousand. You won't find any that aren't completely brand new or with nearly no miles here, so the closest option is importing from wealthier countries which will set you back 5-7k. Avg salary is like 1.2k a month.
why do you think these episodes exist
The inclusion of Tom Matano so cleverly & enjoyable scripted into the story is what elevates this Miata/MX-5 review over every-one that I've ever watched.
Thanks Jason for honouring the man's contribution in this playful & respectful way.
I met Tom at the MX-5's 30th Anniversary event held at the British Motor Museum Gaydon in 2019 when I had a NC 2.0Lt LE with BBR upgrades (NA6 S-Ltd previously). He was as gracious and interested in person as you would hope and an engaging speaker, talking with passion about the product so obviously dear to his heart. He also showed a slide show of the sportscars he's owned over the years before the Miata was even a twinkle in Bob Hall's eye. FIAT 850 Spider & X1/9 in his ownership portfolio tell you all you need to know.
Tom seems like he takes his work _very_ seriously, while not taking _himself_ too seriously. Just like his car. What -a legend- legends.
Savagegeese did a great retrospective on each Miata variant with lots of great interviews with the engineers. It's definitely worth a watch.
@@dougrobinson8602 Why the ND got back to lightness after the NC putting on the weight. I have a 2016 MX-5 Club soft top & its amazing to look at under neath the car the supports have circular holes cut into them to remove excess material. Mazda went so far that my sunshades are a thin one layer plastic. They removed 20 pounds from each seat ( I have the cloth hammock feel seats ). Almost the whole frame is aluminum to save weight. Coming in at around 2340 pounds its 140 pounds heavier than the original NA.
I was a muscle car kind-of-guy. But, in 1995 I bought a brand new, completely stripped down, '96 model year 5-speed Miata straight off the showroom floor. ...it absolutely blew me away. It had "sufficient" power, but most of all, it was one of the most FUN cars I had ever driven. It was phenomenal in it's lightweight-enhanced performance and super-forgiving clutch. Smooth in every aspect of handling and control. It forever changed my attitude toward "having to have the most powerful engine I could get", to --> I must now have the LIGHTEST car I can get with the best engine I can find. Power-to-weight is KING.
Having Tom Matano, one of the “fathers” of the Miata, on is legendary. Immediately Liked and Subscribed.
Toms addition was fantastic. Nicely done, Haggerty team, immortalizing him in a video about the history of the Miata!
😂 water tight!
I love this car my great uncle a GM designer (collapsible steering column). Bought one
Unfortunately I can't fit in this car my legs come up too far
Jason do you really fit in it?
I audibly gasped in delight when he stepped out of the shadows.
This is a very good video.
I literally fell out of my chair when he made his cameo.
Yes, well done!
Hagerty letting Jason Cammisa loose has been nothing but a stroke of genius. Every piece of content he releases, whether you agree with him or not is incredibly engaging and informative but most of all entertaining from start to finish. Keep this kind of quality up and the channel has no reason not to continue to grow
He's the best thing in car journalism. Clarkson, minus the baggage.
Amen!
The very best automotive journalist to ever exist!
Cammisa is one of my favs because of how he doesn't take himself too seriously n is quite witty as well.
Cammisa, Chris Harris, Henry Catchpole, Harry Metcalfe n the OG Top Gear trio are, to me, the best automotive journalists out there. I'd put Tiff Needel n Rory Reid in the list too. It's just that they don't cover such a wide array of machines the way the others did/do.
The whole video felt more like a stroke of penius
Some 20 years ago, I walked into a car rental office to pick up the VW Golf I had booked. A small sign on the desk advertised the MX-5, which I quickly worked out would cost me just a fraction more to hire. I switched cars, and spent the next fortnight with a big grin on my face. When I eventually had to return it, I promised myself that one day I would own one. 18 months ago, I finally got to realise that dream, ordering myself a brand new ND - soft top and in red, of course. I now use any opportunity I can to take it out for a spin. And that grin? It's now permanent. ;-)
I have owned my Miata for 23 years. It has been a daily drive. I have heard all the comments, good and bad. I still love it like the first day got it. Thank you Mazda!
The use of titanium and composites was inspired.
@@orangelion03 What's more inspiring is that Mazda didn't use titanium and composites to keep weight down - just careful engineering and a handful of aluminum body panels.
@@ARCNA442 I stand corrected =) Seemed to me I read it somewhere, but indeed, a quick deep dive showed I was mistaken. As an owner of a 2016 (and former 235K 90), I should have known better. Modern engineering tools (design and fabrication) allow them to wring the most out of a challenge. All hail Mazda!
It’s not because we’re in 2023 and they are just doing their jobs and not dealing with Bean counters
but BMW and near every single other manufacturer tell us that's impossible!!
There's a reason so many enthusiasts have owned/still own these little cars (and their values have started rising). Because they're amazing fun and affordable to own for a regular person.
Tom M, you're just as legendary as the car you helped bring to life.
My car has same displacement, suspension set up, hp and tq yet is FWD but everybody trashes the car because of the Make & Model but having owned both, it's equally as fun just FWD. Oh and I'm also 5 spd trans with a B&M.
@@johndc2998 There's nothing wrong with FWD, as long as it's well done. Two of the most fun cars I've ever owned were a MKII GTI and an R53 MINI. On a tight road very few things were faster. Smiles for miles, as they say.
I had a Fiat 124 Spider back in the day. I modified the suspension to make it corner and handle better. It was an absolute joy to drive! Unfortunately, I spent too many weekends working on it to keep it in tip-top condition. Mazda killed the sports car market with the Miata, and the world never looked back. I only wish Toyota could come up with something even better.
@@dougrobinson8602yeah my MK4 Golf with full suspension was amazing to drive on the back roads and highways. I have an ND2 now it's really fun to drive but in stock form it doesn't handle the same, but am enjoying it stock and may leave it that way.
its fun unless you live a in country that has highways and bumpy roads, its completely gutless and ride is harsh, once you drop a decent engine in it, the body and suspension cant keep up
I've been an auto technician for over 30 years. My first timing belt in 1992 was a Miata. That test drive made me want one so bad! I did end up with one 25 years later. It puts a smile on my soul every time I drive it. Driving it on a twisty mountain road with the top down is therapy to me.
I hear ya, Brother!
I was fortunate enough to pick up a little red PRHT NC2 earlier this year, and it's now my only car. Every time I open the boot I'm greeted by Tom Matano's signature underneath the trunk lid. He may not have been heavily involved in the development of the NC, but his contribution and passion for these cars is felt across all 4 generations of the Miata.
Arigato, Matano-san.
The nc is an absolute charm!! While it differed the most from the Miata formula, I never get tired of driving or looking at my nc2 (I love a good nb but folks love to leave out that some of the later years aren’t much lighter than an nc)
@@mrbobdobolina5809 Totally agree -- Any Miata is a joy when set up well and driven properly, and the NC2 just really works for me as an only car. The PRHT is great for long road trips, adverse weather, and extra security for street parking in the city. The drivetrain in these cars is very underrated -- Lots of character from the little MZR engine and it makes decent noises if you wind it out like you're meant to. Gearbox is probably the best I've used -- I've driven a few Porsches and the 6-speed in the NC is superior to that in the 981 GTS in my opinion.
I'm very appreciative that I get to have true sports car thrills in a car that asks very little of me cost/maintenance-wise, and I love that I don't have to be precious with it.
I love my NC! And, at 6'3" tall, I fit with plenty of room where the NB felt like I was in a sardine can! My right knee was actually nailed to the dash! That little extra room and the built in fender flares make me love the NC the most. The NA is the Classic everyone loves so much, but for me, it's dated looking and the tiny engine just doesn't come close to the power the NC has. Plus, I love the extra tech that the much newer NC has. The ND is quite nice, and I haven't driven one, but I love mine so much I see no reason too!
Being an ND2 owner I remember the first time I test drove one.. I came home and told my wife that car was a "party on wheels" the sounds, the shifter, just fun, fun, fun.. Then add balance, reliability and great gas mileage? Omg.. The RF shape won my heart over and it's been the most fun car I have ever had.. Then I met the community and it's countless clubs and events all over the country and the experience has been better than I ever imagined it would be.. Miata is always the answer 😊
The ND taillights remind me a Jaguar F Type.
It's the only car that made me giggle so I bought an nd2 as well
I totally agree with the RF. The shape and side profile won me over. People at work had no idea it was a Miata! 😂
Love the look of the RF as well. What colour did you buy?
@@BattyMckicknPunch polymetal gray for me
I will watch anything Jason Cammisa makes. Revelations has become my favorite series about cars, on UA-cam or TV.
Revelations, yes. Drag racing, no.
I just checked, and it's true: the Miata has grown in length by less than 1 inch and in weight by about 200 lbs (2116 lbs to 2341 lbs) depending on trim/transmission. That is quite an achievement, especially with safety requirements. Horsepower meanwhile has increased from 116 to 181, meaning power to weight ratio has improved over time. The Porsche 911 grows in weight, length, and width just sitting in the garage! Great tribute to a living legend: Mr. Matano. Well deserved.
The last driving scene is what makes the Miata so special! Take one on a winding mountain road to get that feeling. Most fun per mile, Miata is always the answer! Great episode
Picked up my new MX5 (as they are known here in Australia) last Friday. It is Deep Crystal Blue Mica and is everything I expected it to be and then some. It is a no-fuss, analogue motor car in which the driver has to do all the work to achieve the fantastic pleasure it delivers on the road. I failed mid-life crisis three times. Got it right this time.
I was an idiot for never test driving one before 50 years old. I’ve had my ND2 GT RF for 2 months and it’s the most fun I’ve ever had. Miata for life!
Good on ya mate!
Enjoy it!
Nice! Have so much fun.
Im here in Australia too and just bought a very nice and original red 1992 MX5 (identical to the one in the video) I pick it up next week, I can’t wait, too excited.
An objective love letter to one of the greatest car of all time.
GG Jason.
MIATA IS ALWAYS THE ANSWER!
If you are a 22 year old secretary 🤣
Unless you need to tow a trailer or handle lots of stuff for moving from place to place or going just to the grocery or even if you own a dog larger than a chihuahua.
Just kidding; It's a perfect car for what it was made for : nothing but driving.
@@Damien.D Man, previously the guy I was dating didn't have a car and I had a shitty old Malibu. But at some people he bought a brand new Honda Civic hatch in blue that was gorgeos. What I loved most was when it was time to buy another car, I DIDN"T NEET TO BE 1 SHRED PRACTICAL! I went and bought a NC3 Miata and loved it.
@@HAFBeast91Cars that are not practical always have something special.
It's the same for lots of things. Art is not practical, for example. It exists just to be enjoyed.
or if u r egotistic car driver, then mx5 isn't for you, you go buy a mustang lol@@randomthoughts9463
04:42 - Ok... this scene gave me goosebumps... Seeing one of the people who created the Miata is phenomenal! I can say with complete certainty that the "Revelations" series is, by far, the BEST series about cars on all of UA-cam! The footage, the historical videos, the way Jason Cammisa speaks... it's mesmerizing! Keep going, for the love of God!
Nice history lesson of the Miata. Love how the designers said its front engine rear wheel drive or NOTHING !
Bob Hall & Tom Matano deserve all the accolades for looking to the Lotus Elan for their inspiration. Colin Chapman the Lotus founder & design engineer was quoted saying simplify & add lightness. I feel that heritage in my 2016 MX-5 Club soft top.
Been a Mustang guy my ENTIRE life and recently bought my wife a Miata. I absolutely get it now.
From CJ Pony Parts? I have a Foxbody but my NA Miata makes me smile more.
@@spencerleeb ha ha same, owned a fox for 15 years, sold it to get a miata for track use and just loved the go-cart feel of it...buuut, child #2 came along so I've moved on to a fiesta st, closest 4 door I could get to a miata and tons of fun.
Yeah, no comparison!
I love how you can teach and still make it fun, in another life you could have been a school teacher Jason.
Loved the cameo by the og
As the owner of a red 1996 miata all I can say is, thank you Mazda
THANK YEW, MAZDA
Still use my 1993 Miata as my daily driver after 30 years of ownership. Absolutely love it.
That has got to have so many memories! Congrats on 30 years holy crap!
@@Back.yard.stunts Two marriages, one divorce, 2 major moves across the country. Convincing my Irish Wolfhound to sit in the passenger seat (top had to be down). Yep, lots of memories.
I saw the Miata in 1989 when I was riding my bike home from work. I had no idea what it was but stopped into the dealer lot to look at the cars.
To me it looked a lot like an MGB, which was one of my favourite cars.
When I saw that this was a new Mazda I thought “one day…”
I have loved them ever since but was never quite able to afford one so ended up with one of its progenitors- the MG Midget.
No regrets!
Jason cammisa, Henry catchpole, Chris Harris, Rory Reid, automotive UA-cam is in damn good hands. Miss having Jethro Bovingdon around. I have grown up with you guys. Thankyou for the splendid content, and never stop.
Catchpole and Reid suck 😂😂😂
@@ClinicalDecisionYikesYT I beg to differ, I love catchpole's narration and Rory's drama and personality.
@@christiansemcesen2470 subbed and subbed. God bless internal combustion and petrol.
@SlayerRock4ever I don't think I'd go quite that far. For example, Henry's video on the McLaren F1 and P1 is fantastic and easily one of the better YT car videos on the service. Especially when it's for free!
Great list with one giant omission in Doug
I recently purchased a 2020 MX-5 Miata RF GT and I absolutely love it! It is the most fun most amazing car to drive.
I've owned a black '81 RX-7, a red '83 RX-7 and a blue '90 Miata. I miss the RX-7's, but I kick myself for selling the Miata. Man, that car was a blast to drive. I had a buddy at the time that had a red '91 Miata and we would chase each other through the twisty hills south of town. Those cars were so much fun!
Interesting to me that Jason comments/compares with Porsche 911. 6 years ago I was looking at 911s. Thought they had gotten too big, so started looking at Caymans. Then on a Saturday looking at these cars, I drove by a Mazda dealership and saw a soul red 2017 ND parked out front. Stopped in, took it for a test drive, and had as big a grin on my face as I had while test driving the Porsches. Plus being a half to a third less expensive, I bought it. It's been a fun, smile producing, very reliable car.
When I picked u pmy NC3 at the Mazda dearlership last year, I saw a Silver 911 someone had traded in on a ND RF in Orange.
Been on the lookout for a Porsche for over a decade.
But Porsche, just like every other manufacturer, has lost the plot sports car wise.
They are just too good, too heavy and too fast to be fun on the road.
In terms of 911, most people order them with automatic gearboxes as well.
MX-5 is always the answer.
We bought our Soul Red Crystal w/tan 16 at a local Porsche dealer. A customer had traded it in on a Cayman. 6000 miles on it, the dealer hadnt bothered to detail it because it was immaculate. I had owned a 1990 for 15 years and put 235K miles on it.
I just bought a 718 Cayman T (flat 4 turbo, manual) in addition to my 2022 ND2 2.0 Softtop. The previous owner of the Cayman had a MX-5 RF before. They're always connected 😁
@@strebrr Congrats!!
"It is a challenge to repress the desire to address every request." This restraint and conviction in their formula is admirable. But the proof is in the sales numbers! I am so glad that a relatively small automaker is continuing to find a way to deliver a product like this to customers.
I love these videos so much. I now consider Cammisa a journalistic legend of well presented automotive lectures, and the cameo of bringing in Matano walking into frame was genius! God these are just TOO GOOD.
It's a testament to the incredible level of work put into planning and making this episode that, while and after watching this, I had a range of emotions that included a lot of joy. Just like the noh mask design concept, you've recreated what a Miata feels like and means, in the very episode that talks about it. Distillation mastery.
Bravo.
Miata Is Always The Answer!
I remember a friend back in 98 letting me drive her brand new NB and I fell in love with it. I wanted one ever since that night, but had always put it off as a toy, or being irresponsible. Last year I finally made the decision to just get one and I have a grin on my face every time I drive it, even if I'm just running to the grocery store where I know that I can, at best, fit a week worth of food in the trunk.
Proud to own a Miata!
Yes Miata look like a toy, but in reality it's quite a smart choice. It is reliable, spare parts are cheap, it's small but practical, fuel consumption is decent (especially on the new ND). Plus it's fun to drive and it looks very good. I think it's more nonsense to buy a large SUV for carrying around 1-2 people to the grocery store.
@@salazam Never driven one, eh? There is a reason why the miata has consistently been called "one of the best sports cars ever made" for more than 3 decades
@@salazamlol, okay. Just for your understanding, every car you listed as faster than the miata has basically identical acceleration to the miata. If you have even driven anything at all, it's certainly none of the cars you listed.
And nobody who has ever driven a miata claims they are fast. If you can't have fun driving a miata it's a you thing, lol.
@@FlesHBoX The ND / ND2 is quick. You have to drive it to extract that speed because most are manual transmission. There is a good reason why they are THE Most Raced cars in the World ! Guys like Salazam don't like to drive ! Just step on the gas.
@@ag4allgood I would love to have an ND RF. I ended up buying an NC because I could fit it into my budget a bit easier. ND is definitely the best looking miata.
I own a 1999 Mazda Miata MX-5 (NB1) 5 speed manual that is perfection to shift and only weighs a svelte 2,299lbs and yes it has the lsd and I added the hard dog roll bar. Fun at any speed and perfect for Colorado mountain roads.
Same here mate, same year, nardi wheel, lsd ( rust repaired )but this is England 🌧, Just a fun car, Glad your loving it , The welsh mountains aint to bad though 🤟
@@ragingbalrog rain/snow just means you get to drift it at every corner :)
My '99 is a 5-speed base model, well now I guess it's a base+ model after FM stage 2 suspension kit and a lot of other personal touches. A year ago I bought a super low mileage MSM thinking I'd sell my '99 to help pay for it but I couldn't let it go. My wife vetoed that idea anyway, so now we're choosing which Miata to drive on any given trip ;-)
Nothing better that an almost too-cold drive in the country with the top down and the heater up.
@@dgris7944 Cold winter drives in my 2016 MX-5 Club soft top with the top down windows up / heater cranked on high really feel good. Winter performance tires do their thing.
The 65 Mustang weighed 2,600 pounds. Ford sold 550,000 copies. By 1973 the Mustang got longer, wider and the weight was up to 3,300 pounds. For 1973 Ford sold 135,000 copies.
I remember walking into a Mazda Dealership in May 1991 to look at their selection of Miata's. Every one of them had been loaded up with every accessory they could find and the lowest price was just over $25,000. At the time the base price was just over $14,000.
Love how you post this right as I'm about to buy an ND1
A friend of mine once said "Driving a Porsche 911 is theater. Driving a Miata is a comedy club." As an owner of both, I can confirm this is true. You just cant stop giggling when you are behind the wheel of one.
I've owned a Porsche 911SC (air cooled, 3 litres) and now an N/A (first series) MX-5. I have to say that I miss the 911's character - the characteristic whine as the engine spools up when the accelerator is pushed, and the torque of the old 911 is something that the Mazda just hasn't got. The MX-5 should in my opinion have been given more power and torque from the start - 150bhp at least.
of course, but then it would not be as safe, and that means insurance and thus total sales, etc etc. Dn't give the ppl or enthusiasts or youngsters what they want.@@gam1471
@@gam1471 if you want more torque get the ND Miata it's suprisingly quick especially the ND1 with low end and mid range torque.
Yes indeed - Mazda eventually got round to it! 🙂@@brycetheshredder
Love these videos by Cammisa, they're so insanely nerdy (only the Collecting Addicts comes close) ... meant as a huge compliment! Keep on with the good work!
So better catching up the carmudgeon podcast
As a guy who owns a 92 NA I purchased new & as of 2024 racked up 150K on the odometer -- this vid is a "spot on." Thank you to everyone that made it happen! - Thanks for your vision & tenacity.
Great episode. Adding to this Christian von Koenigsegg loves the Miata so much, He bought back his original 1992 NA miata mx-5
This car is definition of perfection! Reliable, fun, noisy, sporty and… fast (at least in our minds while driving)
Hope Mazda never stops making it 🚘
Hope Mazda never makes it electric...🤣
It delivers 60mph as if you were going 80mph - and I love it for that; and it’s the reason I always look forward to driving my ND2 RF. 😮💨👌
If you got the ND1 in 1.5L in your market I think that's the sweet spot atm. A lot cheaper than the ND2, yet still fairly new with great features.
😂😂😂 till the point it starts raining ...
Jason,sincerest thanks for journalistic perfection that the Miata so well deserves. Bravo!
When I was 14, I saw my first Miata, it was a little red NA with the headlights up, and I fell in love. I got into cars just because I thought it was a cute car. 9 years later, I bought my first Miata, a 1994 in Laguna Blue with every option (besides auto, of course). I love this lil thing to death
I bought a white Miata in 1989 with manual transmission. Now I placed an order for a soul red 2024 MX-5 CLUB Miata with all the bells and whistles.
I've owned an NA Miata for over a decade, invested more than I care to mention in restoration and mechanical modifications.(1995 Montego Blue, 208,000, hard driven, problem free miles)
Once every couple years the thought of selling her creeps into my mind. And then I take it for a drive, and marvel at the 13 years of flawless reliability in spite of countless hours, beating it round tracks and corners. I revel in the joy of operating its controls, and pushing its limits on every clover leaf, or hairpin, and realize that I'm never going to sell that car.
I’ve owned turbo’d, supercharged, NA, V8, V6, flat four, FWD, AWD, and RWD vehicles. Yet, short of my motorcycle, my Miata is the most fun vehicle I’ve ever owned, even though it’s by far the slowest 😂
Thanks for another great episode Jason.
I call my NB2 an 85% machine when reminiscing about my motorcycle days. High enough for me and everyone’s happy!
A Mini Cooper S is way more fun to drive. It doesn't put you to sleep when you mash on the gas pedal.
@@salazam there's gotta be something wrong with you if the delightful sound of the little Miata puts you to sleep! It may not be fast by modern standards, but it sure feels like it is! Perfect snappy gearbox, spins the wheels if you run cheap enough tyres, just pure joy to drive!
@@Lolwutfordawin No. It's slow and it feels like it's slow. It handles pretty good going into a corner, but coming out... you go to punch it at the apex and.....
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....
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yawn.
Ive owned 3 miata, but the best low dollar sportscar? Ive own 5 mr2s. Mr2s take the win for me.
I absolutely LOVE my NA Miata. I bought it off a coworker for $700 with 64k on the odometer. I hounded him for close to 7 years to sell me that car. My wife calls my Evo 9 RS a death box😒 but thinks the Miata is the best thing ever. She thinks Mazda can do no wrong 😐
Lets just say.... I dont tell my GF how bad of a deathtrap the NA is :D. Im so jealous of you being able to get such a deal. I had to pay over 10k eur to get a low mileage (80k km), period tuned car that is marked in the local historic car registery. Now they are even more expensive here, and I bought mine last year.
Well the EV mandates will make them do wrong in the future, sadly.
The "reason to get out of bed on Saturday morning" is real.
I joined a gym, and go early on a Saturday morning before the gym and the roads get busy, and it's my MX5 that makes it happen, otherwise I'd just have a lie in.
I'm on my second MX5, the first was bone stock. Loved it so much I bought a special edition variant with a full set of BBR220 improvements.
It was the same for me with the nd. The first time i saw one was in a display at a shopping center and I remember thinking it would be out of my price range till I went around and saw the price. Went to the dealer for the test drive and ordered one that weekend. I never truly understood their brilliance until I drove one
Great story, great storytelling, compelling arguments. Tom Matano was the popup headlights of this episode.
That last bit of canyon carving looked like a blast, and when you look at the cockpit, it's only 40mph with the engine revving at 6000rpm.
If there was room to put a pet harness behind the passenger, I'd own one today.
I took the passenger seat out of mine and put a dog bed in its' place.
What a fantastic story, so well told! I bought my wife a '93 Miata in '98 before we were even married. It's still in the garage today, with more than 165,000 miles on the clock and still going strong. Thank you, Mr. Matano and team for such a joy inducing car!
I just bought a 1994 Mazda Miata yesterday with 95k miles for $9,800! The previous owner was 72 years old, and had only put 1,500 miles on the car in the nine years that she had owned it. It looks great with the hard top on it, and there is zero rust anywhere on the body. I look forward to putting more miles on the car.
Miata is always the answer.
Best one yet from Jason! Miata is probably the only car model in all automotive history that have stayed true to its original philosophy.
Terrific point. The only great car that has stayed true. ,otherwise: we have to hear about the 2CV, Trabant etc. oh wait a minute, we just did. Makes me feel unclean.
So sad that this car will get its soul mandated out of existence when electric laws force it to go EV.
I hate the EPA.
@@faheemabbas3965 An electric Miata would be a much better car than most people think. The powertrain has never been the selling point of the Miata, and battery tech is almost there to keep it reasonably lightweight.
Jason's story telling ability is second to none. Up there with Chris Harris. The way this video inspired me, even though I would never own a Miata myself, is just amazing. One of his best videos ever.
Bob Hall is the most charismatic person I met in my life. Tom also is just such a lovely guy. Miata is always the answer.
The purest model of car, sports car, in the world. Fervently dedicated to the initial mission and only such.
Miata really is the answer, it’s fun, reliable and “cheap”. I’ve got a 2005 Mazdaspeed Miata and while controversial due to its factory turbo still feels like a Miata and is a blast to drive in the twisties, if you are ever considering a Miata… do it
Jason is why I tune in. His presentations are hilarious and educational. Not to mention his passion for cars. Would love to see a long form interview with Tom!
I don't know why I always put off watching these.
Everytime it's the same conclusion: Jason and the team behind the scenes never disappoint me.
Great job, guys ! 😊👍
you guys even have the original designer in the show. great job as always 👏🏻
I love the fact that the Miata's face through the generations goes from happy and cheerful, to sad and maybe disappointed. to mischievous and playful. Seeing one usually makes me grin.
me 2 i own an nd2 1.5l it makes me grin every time i walk to it to go to work and it makes me giggle every time i wave at other miatas like i'm a 5 year old kid, just today a kid came up to my car and told me it so little!! with a huge smile on his face
Which MX-5 do you consider sad looking? :P
I love it when the young kids ‘get it’ when they see it.
As soon as I saw Tom Matano i was hooked. There is no better car channel.
My 1990 Miata is literally named, "Happy Car" and I have had her since 2006. I still drive her every summer, and tuck her away safely in winter.
I've had 8 Miatas and currently have a NC2. At the same time in the stable, there have been cars from an E36 M3 to a 22' BRZ and V10 R8 RWS, and now a 718 GT4. Of all these cars, the Miata is the one that brings the purest driving joy.
Im trading my nd2 Rf for a s550 mustang gt, yeah miata is nimble and Fun around corners But its very uncomfortable in long journeys and on the highway it’s kind of scary and unplanted
@@thatpersiandude7386 Never had that problem on the highway in my 2016 Club soft top. Its been comfortable for many hours sitting in the cloth hammock style seats. Its always been firmly planted on the highway & I drive it like a hooligan at times. Top is down 80% of the time. Really a fun car to drive with a great super light clutch & short patterned shifter. BTW its a daily drive in 4 season weather & its very fun in the snow / ice too.
How does the 718 GT4 compare to the R8?
are you sure we own the same cars @@thatpersiandude7386
I had a 2014 S197. I agree with your points as I have a daily, but for a fun car I found the mustang very numb and hard to place on tight roads. Engine was great though haha.@@thatpersiandude7386
I wish they mentioned the meeting where they put all three designs in one room and the head of the design team from Japan pointed to the American design and simply said "Build that one". That happened before Mazda had decided to green light the project and it was simply a design exercise meeting. The only thing that will put a smile on your face faster than riding in a Miata is Driving a Miata.
I had a minor stroke 3 years ago which affected my balance. I had to sell all of my motorcycles.I bought a 2003 Miata NB and it's so much fun that I don't even miss my motorcycles!🤩
I stopped riding motorcycles back in the late 80's when cell phone became so popular. Too many distracted drivers. Got a Miata and I have to say it's' the closest thing on 4 wheels to a motorcycle. I'm on my second Miata 2001 NB2 SE
Glad you mentioned the Lotus. Mazda seemed to intentionally avoid the Lotus back when the Miata came out. However, park a Miata next to an Elan and you'll get it. The only difference is that the latter makes the former look like a big car.
I just bought my wife a 2023 RF in Soul Red. I drove it all last week while my Tacoma is in the shop for a suspension upgrade. Tell you what, I want my own Miata. That little thing puts a smile on my face, its just so fun to drive.
Jason Cammisa and the Miata. Two legends.
That last driving sequence brought back memories. I bought a Datsun 2000 in 1969, long before the Miata was even a thought. Same basic platform, front engine, 5-speed transmission, rear drive though it had a solid axel, and a rag top. God almighty, that was a fun car to drive. We have to thank the Mazda team for not taking the step to enlarge the car into something not recognizable or affordable. Datsun went from the 1600/2000 series of roadsters to the Datsun 240Z, which also sold like hotcakes. But it was larger, sported a 6-cylinder engine mated to a manual transmission but was a hardtop.
That intro for Tom Matano was perfect, what a great way to get the essence of the Miata. A pair of running shoes, that is always there and ready to go
Same with the mask comparison with the lighting, that was awesome
I love how there are Miata racing leagues here in the US. Makes racing very approachable.
There is a reason the Miata is THE most raced car in the world.
Me too. I’m hooked on spec Miata racing because of the sharp high speed curves, it makes the typical nascar race boring.
😎Mk3 Gt Mx5
I just bought a NB MX5, got it this week, and this video comes a few day after. Universe wanted me to have a MX5.
I have a 96 Miata and I can’t recommend them more the most fun car I’ve ever drove
The Miata was a car you KNEW you wanted, from the second you saw one. THAT was the car we had all been waiting for.
This year, I traded my RX8 which I had for 16 years for a brand new Miata RF and couldn't be any happier. The term 'smiles per gallon' really applies.
Please never change that awesome intro sequence!
I all is left to say is thank you mr Tom Matano!
Thank you so much for this! Brilliant!
Wanted the Triumph Spitfire but bought the MX-5 for the reasons mentioned. 1990’s make, no electronics, wooden Momo steering wheel (no airbags, no ABS), British old timer rims, ski rack in the back, sliding in every turn of the Swiss mountain roads, this car is close to my heart! Had an S2000 and now a 911 but emotionally, nothing topped the Miata (which would still be around of my sister did not crash it…).
Thank you 🙏🏼
A fantastic episode, many thanks to all involved as always on screen and off, and a special thanks to Tom Matano for being in on this, seems such a nice and chilled guy, how many outtakes were there with too much laughing ? lol
All hail the algae rhythm 🎶🕺💃🎶
Damn! That Miata looks HUGE next to the Elan. The Elan is like a go-kart!
Yeah it's always funny seeing them side-by-side. But then put my Miata next to any normal car (heck, even my Golf) and _it_ looks comically tiny
My 1992 Miata is still my favorite car of all the ones I bought. It was the tiny perfect roadster. I'm sorry I ever let it go.
I remember as a teenager walking into a classic sports car dealer in the very early 90's. They had this print out basically saying that there is no way in the world a car such as "That" Mazda would ever be a classic, so you would be better off buying an MGB.
That dealership has long gone. But the Miata/MX5? Well, to be honest, I can't ever remember the last time I heard anyone talk about a MGB, let alone seen one in the flesh. The Mazda is not just the classic, it is the King that can not be surpassed.
I've only ever driven one once (as a hire car) - it was a fantastic little sports car. Maybe I'll get one of my own one day
Most fun car I’ve ever owned. That ending clip brought back memories. Driving a Miata at any speed makes you feel like a race car driver. Great video. Thanks for posting.
Thank you Jason, the legendary MIATA earn his episode ❤️ I will never sell my 91 NA and my 18 ND, best cars to drive on public road. That's the last real sport car that can be purchased if you're a middle class guy like me
Thank you Mazda for keeping this car in production
I bought an NC3 because my Mazda 3 transmission died, and trying to find NA and NBs in clean shape for reasonable prices was hard. The nice ones would h ave 6 people already interested in seeing it within an hour or 2 of being listed. Plus, I needed financing. So NC3 it was. May not have been the Miata I would have specially found, but the Silver 5 speed Sport was so wonderful to drive around. Hitting redline 3 times going to walmart, getting 25 mpg with insurance that was cheaper than expected. I hydroplaned it last year going to Thanksgiving and insurance totaled it. I will be back..
I have an NC2. I can red line it 3 times and not break the speed limit. If I tried that in my GT350, I’d be in jail.
Hopefully you will replace yours soon.
We bought our 1992 “Stella” last year with only 85k original miles from the second owner. She is staying in our family forever! We ❤ Stella!
I just uploaded a 12 minute ASMR drive in my recently turbocharged Miata. I've loved this thing for over 9 years now, and last year took it to brain surgery in my garage to install this turbo... I can't get over this damn car man. And it's great to see public reception become so enamored with this tiny little beautiful thing.
As a former GSL-SE, NA, and NB owner, I can attest to how great all of these cars are to drive and own. Love the content, Cammisa!
They’re great if you’re a small man, Im 5’11 at 220 pounds and i have crazy back pain after driving my nd2 for more than nd2
I meet Tom Matano every week at University, what a guy! Father of the Miata design team.
THE CAMEO!!! DAMN!! The answer truly always is Miata
I learned how to drive with my 1989 Alfa romeo spider. And 1 year ago i bought a lovely ND2 RF. A masterpiece