You'll grin at 35 mph on a twisty backroad in this thing, which tells you everything about what it is and isn't. The current ND generation nails the formula: more power than the original NA, better build quality than the unloved NC, and still light enough that momentum beats horsepower every time. The ND2 (2019+) brought a higher redline and sharper throttle response, though owners still wish Mazda would just turbocharge it already. But here's the deal, it's loud on the highway, the trunk fits two soft bags if you're optimistic, and rough pavement will rattle your fillings loose. Buy it as a second car or weekend toy and you'll love every mile. Try to make it your only vehicle and you'll spend six months explaining why you can't help anyone move.
The GR86 is a purist's sports car: lightweight, rear-wheel drive, naturally aspirated, and manual-first. It excels at what it was designed for, carving backroads and delivering steering feedback and chassis balance that punch far above its price. Owners consistently call it 'the most fun you can have under $30k' and many who cross-shop faster cars (Supra, Mustang GT) still choose the 86 for the analog driving experience. The tradeoff is clear: it's slow in a straight line, loud on the highway, and the interior feels budget. If you want a daily commuter or need rear seats, look elsewhere. If you want to learn car control and enjoy driving at legal speeds, this is the answer.