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Lightweight Roadster
Mazda MX-5 Miata
✓ Buy
Among the best in its category
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 generation that matters
This product isn't one story — here's how each era is regarded.
NA (1st gen, 1989–1997)
1989–1997
Legendary
Universally beloved for its proportions, pop-up headlights, and defining the affordable roadster formula. Users note it's objectively slower than later gens but subjectively preferred by many; still commands a 'flippy headlight tax' in the used market.
NB (2nd gen, 1998–2005)
1998–2005
Strong
Praised for VVT, 12 extra hp, nicer interior, and being objectively better than the NA while avoiding the NC's styling criticism. Users question why it's less popular than the NA given its improvements and lower rust risk.
NC (3rd gen, 2006–2015)
2006–2015
Solid
Widely called 'the least liked Miata' for its looks, but respected by pro drivers and track users for having the best chassis and forged-internal engine. More practical and comfortable, but aesthetically polarizing compared to other generations.
ND (4th gen, 2016–present)
2016–present
Legendary
Experts call it a 10/10 and Editors' Choice; users say it's 'better than the S2000 in every way except the engine' and that updates (ND2 power bump, 2024 tech refresh) have perfected the formula. Some AC leak issues noted on early 2016s.
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Common complaints6 issues−Highway noise levels are high, especially with soft top, conversation requires raised voices at 70+ mph
−Minimal storage, tiny trunk, almost no interior cubbies, no glovebox on ND
−Ride quality is harsh on rough roads, especially with Bilstein suspension or larger wheels
−Power is adequate but not exciting, stock family sedans can match acceleration
−AC line leaks reported on ND models, particularly 2016-2018
−Not practical for long highway commutes or as a primary vehicle for most buyers
✓
What owners praise8 strengths✓
Exceptional driving dynamics and handling, lightweight chassis makes physics work in your favor
✓
Best-in-class manual transmission feel and shifter precision
✓
Reliable powertrain with minimal mechanical failures across all generations
✓
Affordable to own, cheap consumables, easy DIY maintenance, holds resale value well
✓
ND2 (2019+) engine improvements deliver better power delivery and higher redline
✓
Genuine fun factor at legal speeds, momentum car that rewards driver engagement
✓
Strong aftermarket support and active enthusiast community
✓
Fuel economy in the 30-32 mpg range even with spirited driving
📊 How this score was calculated — 6-dimension rubric
High confidence▼
891 sources analysed with long-term owner data present
891 sources analysed — strong data quality
Reliability & Durability(22%)8.0
12 positive vs 3 negative long-term reports
User Sentiment(22%)9.6
8,947 positive upvotes vs 412 negative upvotes
Complaint Severity(16%)7.8
Complaints: 18 cosmetic, 24 functional, 4 systematic, 0 safety
Consensus Strength(8%)5.9
Opinion is use-case dependent — product divides opinion by intended use
Value for Money(15%)8.0
28 'worth it', 3 'overpriced', 6 mention better-value alternatives
Owner Advocacy(17%)9.7
8 repurchased/gifted, 34 unprompted recommendations, 1 regrets
Scores are percentile ranks: 5.0 is the median product in existence. 8.5+ is reserved for genuinely exceptional products (top ~10%). The score reflects consensus quality, what owners say about the product. Risk is tracked separately and shown above the summary when present. Both are calculated deterministically, so the same signals always produce the same score.
Specifications2026
▼Pricing
Starting MSRP
$31,665
Range
$31,665 - $43,730
Capability
Fuel economy
26 city / 34-35 hwy MPG
Drivetrain
rear-wheel drive
Dimensions & capacity
Seating
2 passengers
Cargo
4.5-4.6 cu ft
Powertrains
2.0L I-4
naturally aspirated
181 hp · 151 lb-ft
Trim pricing
Sport (soft top)
convertible only, base model
$30,170
Club (soft top)
Bilstein dampers, limited-slip differential, 17-inch wheels
$31,665
Grand Touring (soft top)
premium features, Nappa leather available
$36,220
Club RF
retractable hard top, includes Brembo/BBS/Recaro package
$41,395
Grand Touring RF
retractable hard top, top trim
$43,730
If you're buying
Know what others paid before you walk in.