Enjoy Yourself, Indeed, Enjoy Life in a Mazda MX-5 Miata!

The Story

If you think about it, there.

Report: GM Allegedly Pumping The Breaks On Full-Size EVs Connie Peters Drives The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Chinese Vehicle Content Rules Forcing Polestar Out of U.S. Next Year See Edits News Blog Mazda Car Reviews 550 Views Enjoy Yourself, Indeed, Enjoy Life in a Mazda MX-5 Miata!. By Robin Warner, TTAC Creator (IC: ) Published: October 1st, 2026 Share If you think about it, there’s no practical reason to buy a 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata. You feel cramped in a tight space. You get decent, but not great fuel economy. And the MX-5 only offers decent acceleration and roadholding. So what’s the point?. FUN!. Let me show you.

He spent five years of his adult life as an engineer: four years in traction and stability control calibration, and little over a year in vehicle dynamics. He also spent 15 years of his adult life as an editor at various magazines, including stints at Car and Driver, Road & Track, and Autoweek.

The Miata’s biggest strength is its lightweight, simple, driver-focused character. With just 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, it isn’t particularly powerful, but its low weight — well under 3,000 pounds — makes the power more than adequate. The naturally aspirated engine revs to 7,500 rpm, giving the driver plenty of opportunity to work the engine and six-speed manual transmission.

The reviewer emphasizes the car’s steering feel, chassis balance, and sense of connection. Rather than chasing enormous horsepower or maximum cornering grip, the Miata makes ordinary roads entertaining. The manual gearbox and traditional handbrake further reinforce the analog driving experience.

The RF (Retractable Fastback) version retains the Miata’s compact dimensions while adding a power-operated retractable hardtop. Its distinctive roof structure leaves substantial rear pillars and glass behind the occupants even with the roof lowered.

An informal acceleration test demonstrates that the Miata isn’t a rocket, but it is quick enough to be entertaining. The reviewer estimates a sub-six-second zero-to-60 mph time, which he considers more than adequate for a lightweight sports car.

The point isn’t maximum acceleration; it’s the interaction between the driver, engine, gearbox and chassis. The Miata is capable of highway duty, although this isn’t where it shines. At 78 mph in sixth gear, the engine turns roughly 3,250 rpm, contributing to noticeable engine noise.

Why It Matters

Next Year See Edits News Blog Mazda Car Reviews 550 Views Enjoy Yourself, Indeed, Enjoy Life in a Mazda MX-5 Miata!.

CarMotion Daily’s Take

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