@@montlejohnbojangles8937 well they drive a lot of 50k plus cars daily so their views can be somewhat distorted. The new Miata though has great design for a little roadster
I love miata but the 2020 design is just okay. Within the next 5 years the design will be outdated unlike nissan sports car series whose design will stay relevan for another 15++ years
Bias journalism, comparing it to luxury cars twice it's price. I live in Los Angeles, I get stares and compliments all day despite having supercars driving around here. It was a lazy and poor take from him.
the problem with automotive reviewers for the most part is that they are automotive reviewers. They test drive high end cars that cost 3X to 4x as the miata then are biased when testing the miata based upon their experience . The Miata is in its own class at its price point; you cant expect crazy amounts of tech in it. That’s not what its meant for. The only thing that comes close at the price point and target market is the BRZ, and that isnt a roadster. This, like most of these TH-cam reviews, is a lazy attempt at automotive journalism.
In a sense they gloss over this when giving their score for the interior & tech. The race car driver is, ironically, the harsher critic here giving it a low score because it lacks features and comfort that most modern luxury cars have in bucketloads. However, the journalist gives a higher rating saying for what it is, it has just everything you could want. In the categories where it matters - drive and feel, they both scored it high, with a minimum 16/20 points.
I had an NA for years and thought I'd never sell it as every generation lost something to the original. Then I drove the current car, which is better in every way.
The only time I test drove a Miata it was the Mazdaspeed Miata. It was used, but drove well. I didn't hate it, but didn't buy it. When I test drove a 2017 I was hooked. I can't explain the difference in reaction to the cars.
I own an ND2. Handling and feel was improved with coilovers and lowering. Sound was improved with a new cat back. It's also one of the best looking cars I've ever seen in my own opinion. I can agree with just about everything else. The car is made to be a driver's car, not a luxury car. Don't go into it expecting that.
@@zsb707 Nearly every car generation has incremental improvements as they pass through the years. People don't recommend buying the first few years of a new car generation for a reason. Been looking up C4 Corvettes for a while and it is crazy the differences in the same model just waiting 4 or 5 years, everything has improved in the car.
that's like saying, why didn't they make the NA mx5 just like the ND it's not fair for the NA buyers, times change and models upgrade not that deep lol, ND1 is still great fun@@zsb707
I've had my ND2 for over a year now and have to say I still get excited for every drive, every commute, before work and after work. Don't forget, redline helps remove carbon buildup 💪
I agree with Zack on the look back score. I didn't look back at my NC Miata because it was a gorgeous car, I looked back at it because it made me smile. It's the automotive version of southern comfort food.
Uhm, the NC Miata looks nothing like the ND Miata, which the reviewer is rating here. You are to (mistakenly) agree with him, but the looks of the NC are entirely irrelevant to the discussion.
@@kencur9690 Missing the point. Zack gave the ND a good "look back" score not based on looks, but based on how the Miata made him feel. Other Miatas give you those same feelings. NA, NB, NC -- they're not particularly good looking cars. But they're all fun to look at when you walk away because you just had a damn good time in it.
@@tealruby1 Missing the point. Just because Zack gave his dubious reasons (most likely to tone down his high score after seeing the 0) doesn't change the meaning of "look back". I understand that you are now going the same route, but it is telling that you say in your comment that you didn't look back because it was a gorgeous car: it is telling because it is beyond obvious that any "look back" points should first and foremost be given based on looks. As everyone else in this comments has no problem understanding. But yeah, if it were solely about feeling, then you'd be right. Only, you know, it isn't.
oh and by the by, before you come back with some other bull, it is just as telling that they end the discussion on that particular aspect by referencing the headlights, and Zack himself talks about how these affect the car's lines: a purely aesthetic consideration.
Wow a zero on look back get glasses. Not every car is a Ferrari or Aston Martin. I mean really you probably don’t even like small cars because your tall but in a fair review you should at least try for transparency. Great video bad segment at the end. Look back from me I’ll probably never look back at your videos lol.
@@arturoperez6621 He's right...you know. Leh Keen is a tool, and arrogant douchebag. He thinks just cuz he revisited the safari 911, doesn't mean he's the best person in the world.
“What?” Let me tell you “what”, mr. Each time I go out in mine I get looks. Each. And. Every. Time. The moment I bought it out and went out of the dealer, that VERY moment, a woman commented on my car. Two guys commented on it last Sunday, a biker and a petrol station owner, both of whom I assume see plenty of cars. It appeals to a lot of different people, for different reasons. I think many, especially here in Europe without the “must-be-big-and-bulky” craze, appreciate the return to roots, the idealized form of the car, car and nothing but car (hence the appeal to motorcyclists I guess: it is not your typical monster on four wheels). I get constant looks, constant questions and constant stares when they see the top going off. And this in a place where Porsche’s are common, and The Three Germans even more. Truth is, the Mazda is unique. If that isn’t look back, I don’t what is.
My experience here in the states is similar to yours. I was in a restaurant one time, and someone came up to me and asked if they could take some pictures of it. I told them, "Go right ahead." Both kids and adults, males and females, and just random strangers compliment the car's looks.
Don’t drive a Miata unless you want to ruin your driving experience in everything else you ever drove. There is a reason the answer is always Miata !!!
For me the interior of the Miata (ND) is one of the best looking on the market. I just like simplicity and I dislike overloaded dashboards and big screens. In my opinion, the Lotus Elise has a great looking cockpit as well, but I guess few people can appreciate that level of simplicity.
So it runs lap times around the same as $160,000 GT3 for about 17% of the price. And as far as look back I get more compliments on this than any other car I have owned, and I have owned just about everything other than exotics.
@@guenthersteiner8163 nurburgring has a lot of straights besides a porsche you really need to train hard to master the car since engine is in the back what can cause snap oversteer the miata gives you more trust to throw the car in harder and be fine also have you looked at the rubber under those porsches the tires are wider than that they are high also i would rather drive a miata hard on a mountain road than a porsche since engine placement of porsche is too dangerous it is only good for straight line like on the wangan
I'm with you on the skinny tires. They enable you to drive the car in the manner of racers in the 1960s, using the tires' slip angles to round a corner is a very subtle four-wheel drift. Check out vids of Jim Clark piloting a Lotus F1 car.
@@johntechwriter I use stock sizes on my ND MX5 but they're all seasons for the same reason. The rear breaks away slower and is easier to control if you don't have lightning reflexes.
@@automachinehead chris harris and every automotive journalist on the planet said the same, they said its the most fun car aswell, better then supercars, jason in the nissan z hagerty video said it, when u understand driving then u know this already. If u go in straight line n cant drive n need numbers to cope with ur lil weewee then it makes sense, top gear podcast with creator of koenigsegg and mclaren f1 both said there favorite most fun cars to drive are miatas, they sell milkion dollar hypercars and said this. So continue coping, continue not being abke to drive.
With just a few minor adjustments this car is absolutely great. I put stiffer sway bars, wider wheels/tires, upgraded muffler, led lights, stubby antenna. Car handles great, looks great. Fun on and off the track. People always look and complement it.
I think Mazda has been on point, More so than most auto manufacturers since 2017, I believe it WILL be one of the most reliable sporty cars that you can find any where. Way to go Team Mazda !!!
It’s a roadster, its build for fun not race on track from the factory (mod it and you can race it for sure). The guy Lee...0..I think he got 0 look back, not the car...lol
Love Zach and Lee on the show. Keep up the amazing work on this. This is the only gen Miata I think the look back factor is at least a 7. Looks great and drives great. Easily one of my favorite vehicles you can buy today. The curb weight on this embarrasses current Lotus products.
The Miata went from being the little cute Japanese roadster to looking like a sleek apex predator that doesn’t even break a sweat outmaneuvering anything else on the road. Great review guys!
@@AndyC3.0 if you have BMW money, there are better options. If the only way you can discredit the miata is to compare it to a car 1 or 2 classes above it and at least 10k more expensive, that's advantage to the miata, not the BMW. Also In 8 yrs time, the MX5 will still be running, even when driven hard daily. That BMW would most likely be living at the repair shop after 5 yrs.
I had a 1990 Miata and put on 410K on it before it was stolen, loved that car dearly. Now I drive a 2016 Miata and LOVE it! I fell in love with it new body style instantly and had to have it. You both did a great review although my opinion is a little different, okay vastly different from Lee's. LOL!
2020 club bbs Brembo Recaro owner. It’s a great little car. Former Mazdaspeed Miata owner, Loved the turbo car. The new car needs wider tires for more grip. And a little stiffer suspension. And a glove box would be nice
This is by far the best generation Miata ever made. I am a little shocked by his opinions on it. Mazda is never. Going. To. Stiffen. Up. The. Car. So enough with that already. It's like asking for a turbo BRZ. Won't happen.
The real comparison will be when the new Subaru BRZ launches. I agree with Zack's score more. For what it is, the Miata is more than just a fair sports car.
Still watching the video, and don't care for the scoring since the car is amazing (was lucky to drive one). But yes, I want to see a comparison with the next BRZ
I like Leh but all of the reasoning for the low score categories didn't make sense and would've made the car worse. If it had an S-Class interior and super stiff suspension it would make it weigh more, cost more, ruin the streetability (of a road car!) , all while having major changes that appeal to none of the buyers or enthusiasts. If you want a shitty driving, expensive, and luxurious sports car, get a new Z4 and some valium.
I know looks are subjective but a zero for looks? Zero is something you would give a car like the Pontiac Aztec. At the very least it should get a 5.. personally I give it a 7.
I know it's all 'eye of the beholder' and all that but this racer guy is the first person I've seen say they don't think this new MX-5 doesn't look good. The RF version in particular, the one with the fly buttresses that's also a hardtop convertible, that is seriously one of the most beautiful looking cars in production regardless of price point, it will UNDOUBTEDLY become a future classic and be an icon for generations to come. I have to wonder what this guys criteria for a good looking car is. Also, the fact that the 'racer' is the one complaining about the interior, comparing it to luxury cars 2-3x it's price doesn't help his credibility.
ND Miata is easily the best looking of the 4 so far. First Miata that I’d say looks good at all. I can imagine it drives 40x better- waiting till its warm in NYC to finally test drive one!!
These self proclaimed car reviewers cannot and will not appreciate simple things in life. Especially a simple fun practical, iconic sports car that is a MX-5 Miata. It may not be the best sports car, but it is the best sports car to have, use on real roads and keep in your garage forever. I give this car a 10 all across all categories.
since i was 4 and the first generation i wanted an mx5. 2 years ago I managed to buy one and after a year unfortunately I had an accident that led me to sell the remaining pieces but 6 months ago I bought another one. whoever buys this car doesn't care a little about "luxury", in the cockpit there is everything you need, essential is the exact word. and then 0 in design? I think it's the most beautiful after NA
Zach is a great reviewer! And super genuine and down to earth. I love the Miata. All I want is an ND may be in white or red and a Seiko or A Grand Seiko to go with the car and good for 2 years. After which I am heading over to Flyin Miata and stuffing an LS and Maybe a Panerai to go with the new Vibe of the Miata LS. LOL
As far as "look back", I have to say that I do. My ND is the first Miata I've bought, none of the others really appealed to me, that changed with the ND. The fact that its technology is advanced also appeals, where else will you find a fully aluminum front suspension, the tubular five link rear suspension? The only gripe I have with it is the base model brakes, strictly econo-car. The Brembos are very expensive, I will be installing Wilwood calipers as soon as the NH winter is over and I can work in my driveway, I have the kits from Flyin Miata on hand.
All you need is a Flyin Miata sway bar on the front set to the stiffest setting and it would clean up some of that body roll in the corners and the float through the straits.
I own a 2016 Club soft top with the Brembo brakes / BBS wheels. This Club model in 2016 is focused on the driver. No frills / no driver aids other than traction control & you can switch it off. Infotainment screen is very functional although the Navigation system takes time to get used to it. How it tells the driver what the wheels are doing is brilliantly designed into this car. This is my daily drive & it goes thru all 4 seasons with winter tires going on when the snow flies. It looks like it should never be in bad weather but this car has been thru some real extremes maintaining that fun to drive feeling in everything. Really well designed car by Mazda. In 50 years driving its the best car I've ever owned.
"Race Driver" I never heard of. I guess he raced sports cars and has some driving talent, but he doesn't have automotive journalist talent. He isn't likable. I would think he would have a helmet that fit and then would remove it for the segment at the end. And while he has a right to his opinion, most reviewers rate the interior and looks at better than 3 and 0. Seems like he has zero consideration it is not a Ferrari or Porsche price and is a street car.
Gave the video a thumbs up, have no idea what they will say, but this car is amazing. Don't own one, but drove one and the things this thing can do and in the manner it can be done- super fun!
Tall guy has got to go. His mannerisms right from he got in the car was showing that he was bent on finding something wrong with it. Look back 0... grow up!
@@LostOldElf Typical. He spent more than half the time praising the car, and he doesn't like the way it looks or the amount of tech it has and this crybaby wants him thrown out.
Not a huge fan of the grey, but I can't take my eyes off my red 2020 rf. Sorry I'm smitten. Reminds me of a baby jag from old. It's a ten for look back for me. I love driving that car.
It is, 5.7sec 0-60.Current BRZ is advertised at around 7 secs 0-60 tho I did see one outlet say they got a BRZ to 6.2 once. Either way, mx5 is faster. Supposedly even the new 2022 BRZ is only 0-60 in 6.1 sec, which is still slower than the MX5 despite having 45 HP and 30 Torque more than the miata.
@@D-AVG The 2022 BRZ actually is both quicker and faster than the current Miata. While the BRZ is a great driving car it's not a sports car, so comparing them is apples and oranges.
I don't own a Miata, but that's only because I really don't fit well with the top up, (necessary on occasion) but I have driven 3 different generations owned by family and friends. To people who don't get the appeal of this car I use an analogy that fits perfectly. First I ask if they have ever flown in a small prop plane like a 4 seat Cessna, and if yes then I say "compare that experience to flying on a commercial airliner" That's your difference between a Miata and your average sedan or SUV with an auto box.
Legitimate question - - Help me understand. - - How is the Miata universally hailed as a great driver's car. Balanced, responsive, "Put it anywhere you want" as the reviewer said and then given poor scores for handling? - - I would have thought the handling would have been its greatest attribute.
Used to have the 2020 club sport. Upgraded to a Camaro SS 1LE recently. I would say the 1LE is the most fun I've had since the Miata. The visibility isn't as good but by God, it's rewarding to drive at any speed like the Miata. I also used to have a C5 and C6 vette but they were mind numbingly boring to drive.
Nice work guys! Matt better give you guys a shoutout on the Smoking Tire podcast. If not I guess I’ll have to contribute to the live super chat and make it happen!
Unless you are sliding, it doesn't matter. My ND1 doesn't have one, and 99% of the time it doesn't matter. But if you want a bit more tail happiness or snow traction, get the LSD.
My base Sport model has an open diff and it is not a factor in daily driving. Even when back-road dicing, the car does not tend to spin its inside rear wheel. But for autocross, a limited slip diff is essential.
It is. I waited a long time to own one, got one finally and although it isn't perfect by any means. It's quite capable and easy to handle. My '95 NA will become my daughter's first car.
Another video to take a shot everytime "Miata" is uttered. Anyhow the MX5 is a clear cut car even today that sets standards. BMW and Porsche have survived with their clones, Mercedes killed off the SLK last year sadly, but none of these match the feel of the MX5.
Would have loved to see what Jason thinks of the car. But great video seems like a great car. What I don't understand is why the racing driver compares the interior to a modern luxury car. Like anything that costs 100-200K is gonna have a nicer interior. But you can't compare the with something that costs 3-4 times as much, that doesn't make any sense. I set in an MX 5 at a car show and for the price I thought the interior was really nice
Re: 1:14, Club and Sport are two different trim levels. There is no such thing as a “Miata Club Sport.” This is making me skeptical of the rest of your review.
Isn't the gearing different though? Or at least you have more freedom to hold lower gears longer due to the higher redline. That would make a difference even if the power is the same.
@@Talynen The gearing itself is the same between the two. You are right that you can hold the gears for longer though thanks to the additional redline. Flyin Miata has a dyno chart that is pretty easy to find on Google if you want to see it. The ND1 loses power after 6k while the ND2 starts building its additional power in that last thousand or so RPM until its redline.
@@wnnarace for me, being 190cm tall is that with ND2 (and thanks to its telescopic steering addition) I can finaly fit in MX-5 and drive comfortably. The additional power band is just a bonus.... and the apple play....and improved soul red colour...and improved gearbox... :)
@@mkkoper I am 186 cm so I definitely feel you there. My left leg would brush the bottom of the steering wheel when my foot is positioned over the clutch. I installed a steering wheel spacer which actually pushes the steering wheel out farther than the telescoping offers in the ND2. You should check that out if you think you could use the additional room, it took me less than an hour to install. The ND1's actually got a revised transmission starting from midway through the 2017 MY and on all RFs. Apple carplay can be added by the dealer as well. I still will concede that the added revs and power are definitely a great addition with the ND2, even a fab9 tune on the ND1 can't quite match that :)
I do agree with you regarding more Power/ higher revving engine. I think that additionally the ND2 engine is more responsible than N1 which is quite important itself. As for the steering wheel. I am ok with it. I have the recaro seats so I don’t slide as I would on the leather ones. I think that recaros are positioned slightly lower... But...as for softly sprung... I have bilsteins and I would say that car is okeyish...I cannot imagine having sofer regular suspension. But even with Bilsteins I must admit that in agressive driving it rolls for too much, to the point I don’t feel the car is predictible. I was told that some aftermarket swaybars should fix the problem. I fit the aftermarket seaybars to my Volvo S60R and they transformed the handling of the car completely. So I hope aftermarket swaybars are highly likely to fix MX-5 leaning issue.
I don’t get the hate for Lee. Yah he’s harsher but Zach is pretty optimistic. I like seeing the balance between the two extremes... imo Look back is an 8 for me :)
@@dragoonTT oh you absolutely must drive a 2016 or newer. Even if it's an auto. That chassis is great. The 5th gen feels slow, especially when taking turns compared to a 6th gen.
A zero lookback is a bullshit score. The ND is one of the most interesting looking cars out there in the sea of Japanese sedans and SUVs, and American pickup trucks, this is absolutely a head turner.
My 2014 Mazda 3 with the 2.0 engine has 317k miles on it and I haven't done any work to it. Mazda is going to go out of business with that kind of reliability.... actually, I'm thinking of getting the new turbo model. They are great cars, though.
Really!? A ZERO for look back? I think it looks great!
Exactly it's beautiful!
Yeah, my 2020 RF gets tons of looks.
Definitely
I always looked back at mine
@Ethan - agreed. A zero for lookback from a guy who wears his racing helmet whilst standing around is not a credible score.
Mx-5 /Miata drivers ALWAYS look back. And Smile :)
Aw what? I think this generation of Miata is a great looking car.
One of the best looking cars of this or any generation. Some times the experts are wrong.
I think it's looks ok.
@@montlejohnbojangles8937 well they drive a lot of 50k plus cars daily so their views can be somewhat distorted. The new Miata though has great design for a little roadster
Best one
I love miata but the 2020 design is just okay. Within the next 5 years the design will be outdated unlike nissan sports car series whose design will stay relevan for another 15++ years
Man I think it’s a great looking car. Was not expecting the low score in the looks department.
Bias journalism, comparing it to luxury cars twice it's price. I live in Los Angeles, I get stares and compliments all day despite having supercars driving around here. It was a lazy and poor take from him.
@@D-AVG twice? if only.
the problem with automotive reviewers for the most part is that they are automotive reviewers. They test drive high end cars that cost 3X to 4x as the miata then are biased when testing the miata based upon their experience . The Miata is in its own class at its price point; you cant expect crazy amounts of tech in it. That’s not what its meant for. The only thing that comes close at the price point and target market is the BRZ, and that isnt a roadster. This, like most of these TH-cam reviews, is a lazy attempt at automotive journalism.
In a sense they gloss over this when giving their score for the interior & tech. The race car driver is, ironically, the harsher critic here giving it a low score because it lacks features and comfort that most modern luxury cars have in bucketloads. However, the journalist gives a higher rating saying for what it is, it has just everything you could want.
In the categories where it matters - drive and feel, they both scored it high, with a minimum 16/20 points.
Also the Miata has a much better interior than the BRZ
Although I'm assuming there isn't a ton of tech, I would prefer a version with even less tech myself.
I agree 100%
Crank windows, a blank plate for a stereo (install your own), I'd be happier @@moddude101
I had an NA for years and thought I'd never sell it as every generation lost something to the original. Then I drove the current car, which is better in every way.
They really went back to the lightweight philosophy of the original and nailed it.
The only time I test drove a Miata it was the Mazdaspeed Miata. It was used, but drove well. I didn't hate it, but didn't buy it. When I test drove a 2017 I was hooked. I can't explain the difference in reaction to the cars.
Zach! I had no idea you were making videos for Hagerty. Subscribed!
Thanks for making me look good.
oh my god zach hehehe im ur biggest fen subscribeded!!!!!!1!!!1
I own an ND2. Handling and feel was improved with coilovers and lowering. Sound was improved with a new cat back. It's also one of the best looking cars I've ever seen in my own opinion. I can agree with just about everything else. The car is made to be a driver's car, not a luxury car. Don't go into it expecting that.
What I don't get: how come Mazda can't do a proper ND from the very beginning? It's not fair to ND1 buyers 😕😑.
@@zsb707 Nearly every car generation has incremental improvements as they pass through the years. People don't recommend buying the first few years of a new car generation for a reason. Been looking up C4 Corvettes for a while and it is crazy the differences in the same model just waiting 4 or 5 years, everything has improved in the car.
that's like saying, why didn't they make the NA mx5 just like the ND it's not fair for the NA buyers, times change and models upgrade not that deep lol, ND1 is still great fun@@zsb707
Happy to see Zach over here. He’s a great reviewer.
I've had my ND2 for over a year now and have to say I still get excited for every drive, every commute, before work and after work. Don't forget, redline helps remove carbon buildup 💪
I've had four Miata's. My latest is a 2016 Club. Having put half a million miles on these cars, I'm still excited, just as you describe.
I agree with Zack on the look back score. I didn't look back at my NC Miata because it was a gorgeous car, I looked back at it because it made me smile. It's the automotive version of southern comfort food.
ND is a g👀d looking car!
Uhm, the NC Miata looks nothing like the ND Miata, which the reviewer is rating here. You are to (mistakenly) agree with him, but the looks of the NC are entirely irrelevant to the discussion.
@@kencur9690 Missing the point. Zack gave the ND a good "look back" score not based on looks, but based on how the Miata made him feel.
Other Miatas give you those same feelings. NA, NB, NC -- they're not particularly good looking cars. But they're all fun to look at when you walk away because you just had a damn good time in it.
@@tealruby1 Missing the point. Just because Zack gave his dubious reasons (most likely to tone down his high score after seeing the 0) doesn't change the meaning of "look back". I understand that you are now going the same route, but it is telling that you say in your comment that you didn't look back because it was a gorgeous car: it is telling because it is beyond obvious that any "look back" points should first and foremost be given based on looks. As everyone else in this comments has no problem understanding.
But yeah, if it were solely about feeling, then you'd be right. Only, you know, it isn't.
oh and by the by, before you come back with some other bull, it is just as telling that they end the discussion on that particular aspect by referencing the headlights, and Zack himself talks about how these affect the car's lines: a purely aesthetic consideration.
Wow a zero on look back get glasses. Not every car is a Ferrari or Aston Martin. I mean really you probably don’t even like small cars because your tall but in a fair review you should at least try for transparency. Great video bad segment at the end. Look back from me I’ll probably never look back at your videos lol.
i’ll give u a -9 for look back jerk
@@arturoperez6621 He's right...you know. Leh Keen is a tool, and arrogant douchebag. He thinks just cuz he revisited the safari 911, doesn't mean he's the best person in the world.
The back its beautiful, this dudes likes muscles cars to compensate little things
Have you been....in a nice.... luxury..... hoodie recently?
“What?”
Let me tell you “what”, mr.
Each time I go out in mine I get looks. Each. And. Every. Time.
The moment I bought it out and went out of the dealer, that VERY moment, a woman commented on my car. Two guys commented on it last Sunday, a biker and a petrol station owner, both of whom I assume see plenty of cars. It appeals to a lot of different people, for different reasons. I think many, especially here in Europe without the “must-be-big-and-bulky” craze, appreciate the return to roots, the idealized form of the car, car and nothing but car (hence the appeal to motorcyclists I guess: it is not your typical monster on four wheels). I get constant looks, constant questions and constant stares when they see the top going off. And this in a place where Porsche’s are common, and The Three Germans even more. Truth is, the Mazda is unique.
If that isn’t look back, I don’t what is.
My experience here in the states is similar to yours. I was in a restaurant one time, and someone came up to me and asked if they could take some pictures of it. I told them, "Go right ahead." Both kids and adults, males and females, and just random strangers compliment the car's looks.
@@brianschuetz2614 awesome. Looking to buy my first real car (always leased ) and damn I’d be glad to have her.
It's no Lotus, but for a simple and fairly light RWD Roadster with a great history behind it, is perfectly fine
@@vladbsr8739 after 2 years, did you buy it?
Don’t drive a Miata unless you want to ruin your driving experience in everything else you ever drove. There is a reason the answer is always Miata !!!
For me the interior of the Miata (ND) is one of the best looking on the market. I just like simplicity and I dislike overloaded dashboards and big screens.
In my opinion, the Lotus Elise has a great looking cockpit as well, but I guess few people can appreciate that level of simplicity.
So it runs lap times around the same as $160,000 GT3 for about 17% of the price. And as far as look back I get more compliments on this than any other car I have owned, and I have owned just about everything other than exotics.
Word!
I love the Miata, but it’s not like running lap times even close to a GT3. They’re Nurburgring times are almost a full minute off
@@guenthersteiner8163 nurburgring has a lot of straights besides a porsche you really need to train hard to master the car since engine is in the back what can cause snap oversteer the miata gives you more trust to throw the car in harder and be fine also have you looked at the rubber under those porsches the tires are wider than that they are high
also i would rather drive a miata hard on a mountain road than a porsche since engine placement of porsche is too dangerous it is only good for straight line like on the wangan
sure you do bud
28 points out of 60 for the only affordable convertible sports car on the market that regularly receives high marks from every other publication. 🙄
I would much rather drive a slow car quickly than a fast car slowly. Give me a manual trans, front rear layout and skinny tires...
If it ain’t fr then you’re getting ripped off lol
I'm with you on the skinny tires. They enable you to drive the car in the manner of racers in the 1960s, using the tires' slip angles to round a corner is a very subtle four-wheel drift. Check out vids of Jim Clark piloting a Lotus F1 car.
@@johntechwriter I use stock sizes on my ND MX5 but they're all seasons for the same reason. The rear breaks away slower and is easier to control if you don't have lightning reflexes.
yes. that one's called cope.
@@automachinehead chris harris and every automotive journalist on the planet said the same, they said its the most fun car aswell, better then supercars, jason in the nissan z hagerty video said it, when u understand driving then u know this already. If u go in straight line n cant drive n need numbers to cope with ur lil weewee then it makes sense, top gear podcast with creator of koenigsegg and mclaren f1 both said there favorite most fun cars to drive are miatas, they sell milkion dollar hypercars and said this. So continue coping, continue not being abke to drive.
With just a few minor adjustments this car is absolutely great. I put stiffer sway bars, wider wheels/tires, upgraded muffler, led lights, stubby antenna. Car handles great, looks great. Fun on and off the track. People always look and complement it.
I think Mazda has been on point, More so than most auto manufacturers since 2017, I believe it WILL be one of the most reliable sporty cars that you can find any where. Way to go Team Mazda !!!
You guys should do a colored border around each show thumbnail to make it super clear which is which.
It’s a roadster, its build for fun not race on track from the factory (mod it and you can race it for sure). The guy Lee...0..I think he got 0 look back, not the car...lol
I’m not a MX5 fanboy, but the looks and interior tech definitely each deserve 7+.
Love Zach and Lee on the show. Keep up the amazing work on this. This is the only gen Miata I think the look back factor is at least a 7. Looks great and drives great. Easily one of my favorite vehicles you can buy today. The curb weight on this embarrasses current Lotus products.
The Miata went from being the little cute Japanese roadster to looking like a sleek apex predator that doesn’t even break a sweat outmaneuvering anything else on the road. Great review guys!
Clearly you haven't driven a BMW.
@@AndyC3.0 I don't know if they have a car that is in the same class as the mx5
@@AndyC3.0 if you have BMW money, there are better options. If the only way you can discredit the miata is to compare it to a car 1 or 2 classes above it and at least 10k more expensive, that's advantage to the miata, not the BMW. Also In 8 yrs time, the MX5 will still be running, even when driven hard daily. That BMW would most likely be living at the repair shop after 5 yrs.
@@D-AVG excellent driving experience doesn't equate reliability. i'd drive a bmw for 5 exhilarating years than a miata for 10 agonizing years.
I had a 1990 Miata and put on 410K on it before it was stolen, loved that car dearly. Now I drive a 2016 Miata and LOVE it! I fell in love with it new body style instantly and had to have it.
You both did a great review although my opinion is a little different, okay vastly different from Lee's. LOL!
My 2014 3 2.0 6 spd has 317k miles on it. Love it.
Stoked for Zack! Congrats buddy long time coming!
2020 club bbs Brembo Recaro owner. It’s a great little car. Former Mazdaspeed Miata owner, Loved the turbo car. The new car needs wider tires for more grip. And a little stiffer suspension. And a glove box would be nice
More grip will win races but you'll have more fun with less grip.
Why would you stick a 6’4” guy in a Miata, then let him compare it to cars that cost 3-10x more.
Well done Zach! I always enjoy your videos man. Well deserved success coming your way.
This is by far the best generation Miata ever made. I am a little shocked by his opinions on it. Mazda is never. Going. To. Stiffen. Up. The. Car. So enough with that already. It's like asking for a turbo BRZ. Won't happen.
Yeah it's weird..as an NC owner I simply accept I need to spend some $ to sort the handling. But there aren't many cars where that's not the case
The real comparison will be when the new Subaru BRZ launches. I agree with Zack's score more. For what it is, the Miata is more than just a fair sports car.
Still watching the video, and don't care for the scoring since the car is amazing (was lucky to drive one). But yes, I want to see a comparison with the next BRZ
I like Leh but all of the reasoning for the low score categories didn't make sense and would've made the car worse. If it had an S-Class interior and super stiff suspension it would make it weigh more, cost more, ruin the streetability (of a road car!) , all while having major changes that appeal to none of the buyers or enthusiasts. If you want a shitty driving, expensive, and luxurious sports car, get a new Z4 and some valium.
I know looks are subjective but a zero for looks? Zero is something you would give a car like the Pontiac Aztec. At the very least it should get a 5.. personally I give it a 7.
I know it's all 'eye of the beholder' and all that but this racer guy is the first person I've seen say they don't think this new MX-5 doesn't look good.
The RF version in particular, the one with the fly buttresses that's also a hardtop convertible, that is seriously one of the most beautiful looking cars in production regardless of price point, it will UNDOUBTEDLY become a future classic and be an icon for generations to come. I have to wonder what this guys criteria for a good looking car is.
Also, the fact that the 'racer' is the one complaining about the interior, comparing it to luxury cars 2-3x it's price doesn't help his credibility.
ND Miata is easily the best looking of the 4 so far. First Miata that I’d say looks good at all. I can imagine it drives 40x better- waiting till its warm in NYC to finally test drive one!!
Did you get one?
yea, did ya get one? Oh, supply chain issues. I'm waiting for a new tranny for my 2016... and waiting... and waiting...
More Zach. Less those other people from last week.
I always look back dude... Not a single time I haven't.
These self proclaimed car reviewers cannot and will not appreciate simple things in life. Especially a simple fun practical, iconic sports car that is a MX-5 Miata. It may not be the best sports car, but it is the best sports car to have, use on real roads and keep in your garage forever. I give this car a 10 all across all categories.
Lee seems "too cool" for this. This was the first car review where I thought that a reviewer was way off in his own world. He clearly doesn't get it.
since i was 4 and the first generation i wanted an mx5. 2 years ago I managed to buy one and after a year unfortunately I had an accident that led me to sell the remaining pieces but 6 months ago I bought another one. whoever buys this car doesn't care a little about "luxury", in the cockpit there is everything you need, essential is the exact word. and then 0 in design? I think it's the most beautiful after NA
Zach is a great reviewer! And super genuine and down to earth. I love the Miata. All I want is an ND may be in white or red and a Seiko or A Grand Seiko to go with the car and good for 2 years. After which I am heading over to Flyin Miata and stuffing an LS and Maybe a Panerai to go with the new Vibe of the Miata LS. LOL
Awesome seeing Zack on his own! I've been following The Smoking Tire since 2013, and it feels like he's hit the big leagues now.
Would like to see more footage of the road ahead rather than the driver's face during their hot lap
look back 0! omfg someone needs a eye surgery.
As far as "look back", I have to say that I do. My ND is the first Miata I've bought, none of the others really appealed to me, that changed with the ND. The fact that its technology is advanced also appeals, where else will you find a fully aluminum front suspension, the tubular five link rear suspension? The only gripe I have with it is the base model brakes, strictly econo-car. The Brembos are very expensive, I will be installing Wilwood calipers as soon as the NH winter is over and I can work in my driveway, I have the kits from Flyin Miata on hand.
As for me, Working on cars all my life, 30+ years, I say lookback 10, 10, 10. and the others a 10 or close to it.
All you need is a Flyin Miata sway bar on the front set to the stiffest setting and it would clean up some of that body roll in the corners and the float through the straits.
I own a 2016 Club soft top with the Brembo brakes / BBS wheels. This Club model in 2016 is focused on the driver. No frills / no driver aids other than traction control & you can switch it off. Infotainment screen is very functional although the Navigation system takes time to get used to it. How it tells the driver what the wheels are doing is brilliantly designed into this car. This is my daily drive & it goes thru all 4 seasons with winter tires going on when the snow flies. It looks like it should never be in bad weather but this car has been thru some real extremes maintaining that fun to drive feeling in everything. Really well designed car by Mazda. In 50 years driving its the best car I've ever owned.
"Race Driver" I never heard of. I guess he raced sports cars and has some driving talent, but he doesn't have automotive journalist talent. He isn't likable. I would think he would have a helmet that fit and then would remove it for the segment at the end. And while he has a right to his opinion, most reviewers rate the interior and looks at better than 3 and 0. Seems like he has zero consideration it is not a Ferrari or Porsche price and is a street car.
I ALWAYS look back at a passing or parked miata.
Those little cars have always been great bang for the buck.
Gave the video a thumbs up, have no idea what they will say, but this car is amazing. Don't own one, but drove one and the things this thing can do and in the manner it can be done- super fun!
That camera view over Leh's shoulder when he's driving is great! It really shows speed well
Tall guy has got to go. His mannerisms right from he got in the car was showing that he was bent on finding something wrong with it. Look back 0... grow up!
@@LostOldElf Typical.
He spent more than half the time praising the car, and he doesn't like the way it looks or the amount of tech it has and this crybaby wants him thrown out.
Nothing wrong with either of the dudes. Good review!
I’m 6’4” I’ll never be able to appreciate the Miata, even though I want to.
Depending on where your height is, you could possibly fit in one. I am 6'3" and had an NB daily driver for 4 years or so.
Zach and Magnus! Nice job stepping up your game hagerty
Not a huge fan of the grey, but I can't take my eyes off my red 2020 rf. Sorry I'm smitten. Reminds me of a baby jag from old. It's a ten for look back for me. I love driving that car.
My next attainable proper sports car this after my last E46 M3, manual, slicktop!
Congrats Zack and Leh on the new gig. Stay genuine!
What do they mean by sound? Is it like low cabin sound? "It doesn't sound like much"
If he gave the nd miata a zero, I wonder what he would give the na nb and nc miatas? I also wonder what he would give the brz/86 and a civic?
Ah yes. Back to how this show should go! Love the ND2, I test drove one recently and was really impressed! It felt much quicker than a BRZ.
It is, 5.7sec 0-60.Current BRZ is advertised at around 7 secs 0-60 tho I did see one outlet say they got a BRZ to 6.2 once. Either way, mx5 is faster. Supposedly even the new 2022 BRZ is only 0-60 in 6.1 sec, which is still slower than the MX5 despite having 45 HP and 30 Torque more than the miata.
@@D-AVG The 2022 BRZ actually is both quicker and faster than the current Miata. While the BRZ is a great driving car it's not a sports car, so comparing them is apples and oranges.
@@johntechwriter How is the BRZ not a sports car?
@@billybones2385 rev hang
Can’t beat the combo of Zach and Leh
my favorite car of all time is a Honda Del Sol. Just purchased a ND2 MX-5 yesterday and I'm having a ball.
You can throw the rear end out much easier in the MX5, once you're comfortable dancing it around, I think you'll have a new favorite car of all time!
I don't own a Miata, but that's only because I really don't fit well with the top up, (necessary on occasion) but I have driven 3 different generations owned by family and friends. To people who don't get the appeal of this car I use an analogy that fits perfectly. First I ask if they have ever flown in a small prop plane like a 4 seat Cessna, and if yes then I say "compare that experience to flying on a commercial airliner" That's your difference between a Miata and your average sedan or SUV with an auto box.
Legitimate question - - Help me understand. - - How is the Miata universally hailed as a great driver's car. Balanced, responsive, "Put it anywhere you want" as the reviewer said and then given poor scores for handling? - - I would have thought the handling would have been its greatest attribute.
Yes Zack is back 👏
I like Zach and trust his review because he's telling it from a normal view.
How do you give a 0 on look back? The RF version is beautiful
Used to have the 2020 club sport. Upgraded to a Camaro SS 1LE recently. I would say the 1LE is the most fun I've had since the Miata. The visibility isn't as good but by God, it's rewarding to drive at any speed like the Miata. I also used to have a C5 and C6 vette but they were mind numbingly boring to drive.
Nice work guys! Matt better give you guys a shoutout on the Smoking Tire podcast. If not I guess I’ll have to contribute to the live super chat and make it happen!
I think Lee was a tad bit snooty on his scoring. I think the little Mazda missile deserved more than a 27 or whatever it was.
We just need Randy Pobst to complete the channel.
Randy certainly does a better job than this Leh guy.
I drive ND2 soul red in Poland and the lookback is easily a 9. Basically all people turn heads and only positive emotions ❤
Would you say a lack of LSD would take away some of the fun on a daily driver Miata that won't see track days?
Daily drive you won’t notice an lsd unless you are powerful enough. However on tracks you definitely feels it
Unless you are sliding, it doesn't matter. My ND1 doesn't have one, and 99% of the time it doesn't matter. But if you want a bit more tail happiness or snow traction, get the LSD.
My base Sport model has an open diff and it is not a factor in daily driving. Even when back-road dicing, the car does not tend to spin its inside rear wheel. But for autocross, a limited slip diff is essential.
Once you get comfortable throwing it around and driving like a hooligan (when it's safe), you'll appreciate the LSD.
Excellent video!
Great job Zach!!
Especislly rf version one of the best looking of all time, gets complements from everyone
Is that polymetal grey? Is it easy to oversteer at 30-40 mph if you want to?
I can over steer my MX5 anytime I want as long as it's moving.
My soul red soft top makes every kid call their parents in awe: "LOOK!".
Great video 🔥🔥👌
You can get it with bbs and brembos? Nice
And bilsteins!
Sure! After you buy it and mod it!
@@davidyoung5640 factory option.
@@Talynen And Recaros!
Sure dream of owning one. I'm sure it's a blast to drive.
It's amazing. Looking for one in that ceramic white with a red soft top... which they don't make anymore.
It is. I waited a long time to own one, got one finally and although it isn't perfect by any means. It's quite capable and easy to handle. My '95 NA will become my daughter's first car.
@@dragonbrownies517 nice choice for the NA. Miata fam.
Get a cheap NA one day. If it's in good working order and has the LSD, you will enjoy it.
@@zackklapman3569 LSD is a must have if you're a hooligan!
Some of these shots look uncolorized and flat. Regardless, great video.
Where was that video taken? Thx.
Another video to take a shot everytime "Miata" is uttered.
Anyhow the MX5 is a clear cut car even today that sets standards. BMW and Porsche have survived with their clones, Mercedes killed off the SLK last year sadly, but none of these match the feel of the MX5.
Would have loved to see what Jason thinks of the car. But great video seems like a great car. What I don't understand is why the racing driver compares the interior to a modern luxury car. Like anything that costs 100-200K is gonna have a nicer interior. But you can't compare the with something that costs 3-4 times as much, that doesn't make any sense. I set in an MX 5 at a car show and for the price I thought the interior was really nice
Re: 1:14, Club and Sport are two different trim levels. There is no such thing as a “Miata Club Sport.” This is making me skeptical of the rest of your review.
If you look at the ND1 vs ND2 dyno charts, the ND2 only makes more power past 6k RPM.
Isn't the gearing different though? Or at least you have more freedom to hold lower gears longer due to the higher redline. That would make a difference even if the power is the same.
@@Talynen The gearing itself is the same between the two. You are right that you can hold the gears for longer though thanks to the additional redline. Flyin Miata has a dyno chart that is pretty easy to find on Google if you want to see it. The ND1 loses power after 6k while the ND2 starts building its additional power in that last thousand or so RPM until its redline.
@@wnnarace for me, being 190cm tall is that with ND2 (and thanks to its telescopic steering addition) I can finaly fit in MX-5 and drive comfortably. The additional power band is just a bonus.... and the apple play....and improved soul red colour...and improved gearbox... :)
@@mkkoper I am 186 cm so I definitely feel you there. My left leg would brush the bottom of the steering wheel when my foot is positioned over the clutch. I installed a steering wheel spacer which actually pushes the steering wheel out farther than the telescoping offers in the ND2. You should check that out if you think you could use the additional room, it took me less than an hour to install. The ND1's actually got a revised transmission starting from midway through the 2017 MY and on all RFs. Apple carplay can be added by the dealer as well. I still will concede that the added revs and power are definitely a great addition with the ND2, even a fab9 tune on the ND1 can't quite match that :)
I do agree with you regarding more Power/ higher revving engine. I think that additionally the ND2 engine is more responsible than N1 which is quite important itself. As for the steering wheel. I am ok with it. I have the recaro seats so I don’t slide as I would on the leather ones. I think that recaros are positioned slightly lower... But...as for softly sprung... I have bilsteins and I would say that car is okeyish...I cannot imagine having sofer regular suspension. But even with Bilsteins I must admit that in agressive driving it rolls for too much, to the point I don’t feel the car is predictible. I was told that some aftermarket swaybars should fix the problem. I fit the aftermarket seaybars to my Volvo S60R and they transformed the handling of the car completely. So I hope aftermarket swaybars are highly likely to fix MX-5 leaning issue.
I can't do it.
The engine is still under powered.
It's 181 but when? What is it 5k?
What about 4k?
It's not enough.
Miata is always the answer.
The car certainly looks better than the guy that has to keep his helmet on.
I don’t get the hate for Lee. Yah he’s harsher but Zach is pretty optimistic. I like seeing the balance between the two extremes... imo
Look back is an 8 for me :)
Zach is here now, Im subscribing
If a version of the Miata had a proper roof, wouldn’t it have better body rigidity and lower weight?
Can we please get a ZL1/1LE on there?
Agreed. A ZL1 (Alpha platform) at least
I’ve been doing a lot of reading on the Alpha platform recently, impressive refresh in 2016.
@@dragoonTT indeed. Have you driven one? Even an SS?
@@blueridgegarage a 2010 manual 2SS but not a 6th generation yet.
@@dragoonTT oh you absolutely must drive a 2016 or newer. Even if it's an auto. That chassis is great. The 5th gen feels slow, especially when taking turns compared to a 6th gen.
A zero lookback is a bullshit score. The ND is one of the most interesting looking cars out there in the sea of Japanese sedans and SUVs, and American pickup trucks, this is absolutely a head turner.
Zach is the man.
My 2014 Mazda 3 with the 2.0 engine has 317k miles on it and I haven't done any work to it. Mazda is going to go out of business with that kind of reliability.... actually, I'm thinking of getting the new turbo model. They are great cars, though.
Great video...until you got to the score cards...the carmera was moving and bobing around so much I thought I was going to be sick, I stoped wathcing.
Lookback: 9. Geesh.