The Miata was very cute, mine was a dark green, which I found a bit more luxurious looking than the more common red or black. It was very comfortable for me, but would probably be a bit cramped for a tall man or a very heavy person. It had enough trunk room for my purposes, but a road trip for two would mean traveling light.
There were no strange noises and visibility was good. I think it was in the shop for mechanical reasons once: for a new water pump. Not bad for a car that was four years old when I got it! Costs were reasonable, but do keep in mind that the plastic window in the back can get cloudy with age. I was able to find someone to fix it without replacing the whole soft top. I do with that it had come with a hard top for winter, both to save the ragtop, and for warmth. The heater works just fine, but I took this car to Alaska with me, and a hard top would have been better. You also need to get very good snow tires for winter driving, typical of any sports car.
The best thing about the Miata is that it is just plain fun to drive. It's quick and responsive, but not so powerful that you feel overwhelmed. Handling is wonderful, and braking firm and smooth. I felt very safe driving it, small as it was.
I would definitely recommend the Miata as a car that is both fun and reliable. It reminded me of my first car, an MG Midget, in its spirit and style, but without the constant repairs.
Barbara
Ocean View, Delaware
5.0
it's spectacular, drives very good
I love everything about my Miata. It is a two seater but very comfortable. It is fun driving it because it hugs curves so well. Its a sharp looking red convertible. I can't say one bad thing about it. The gas mileage is great. It is rated to go 167 mph with the tires it has on it. I will never buy a different kind of car.
DJ
Los Angeles, California
4.0
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This was the first year released model of the convertible Miata MX5 by Mazda. Mazda promoted this as an entry level low cost convertible. I have to admit that given the low price this was one of the most fun vehicles that I had ever owned. The 5-speed transmission and two latch and one zipper convertible top release made any long highway or coast journey an enjoyable experience. The car was used primarily as a work commuter and weekend trip car. I daily took it along the Pacific Highway Coast and through Topanga and Mulholland Canyons. Despite it's small wheel size, the car drove like it was on rails. The car with several package options and the air conditioning and third party sound system only added to the driving enjoyment in all types of weather. The only non standard maintenance issues I had with the car were a burnt out intermittent fan sensor and oxidation and cracking of the plastic rear window after 4 years. This is the kind of car that every parent would want their college bound young adult to drive to college and to beach parties in.