2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata New Orleans LA
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2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata By Brian Alexander, Road Test Editor
DriverSide Overview
It’s been over 20 years since the world was introduced to the Mazda MX-5 – or Miata as it was designated in North America – but Father Time has been remarkably gentle with Mazda’s little two-seater. A modern interpretation of the timeless Lotus Elan, the MX-5 design philosophy took the classic roadster formula and appended a Japanese tint, adding reliability to the equation to create a truly usable and affordable everyday roadster. True enough, modern conveniences have permeated into the MX-5 over the years – you can even get one with an automatic hardtop roof these days – but it still has the same transparent steering, definitive throttle response and the chassis feedback of the gods that made the original car so popular. The 2.0-liter engine’s intake has been slightly modified for 2010 to deliver more of that oh-so-crisp induction noise straight to the driver’s ears, and some mild suspension tweaks have made for an even better drive. We favor the simplicity of the manual soft-top, not least of all for the weight savings, and the strong list of standard features means even a bare bones sport model won’t disappoint in the amenities department. Plus, these things make fantastic race cars. No wonder it has gone on to be the best selling roadster of all time.
What's to Like
A pure sports car experience, the MX-5 is a survivor of an era gone by, when high horsepower and massive grip were far less common than skinny tires and four-pot engines. The simplicity of the cabin is a relief when compared to other modern roadsters that boast huge sat nav screens and complex computer systems. Lots of standard features mean you won’t end up overpaying for more car than you need.
What's Not to Like
For those long of the leg, it’s a tight fit, and a slightly smaller steering wheel actually might go a good way to making taller drivers feel a bit more welcome behind the helm. If you had aspirations of cramming anything resembling a significant amount of luggage in the trunk, think again.
The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
Even the most stalwart of anti-convertible enthusiasts have applauded the MX-5 over the years, and after a few hundred feet on the road it’s easy to see why. None of the typical convertible issues – cowl shake, road noise, phantom breezes – are present, so dropping the top on the MX-5 allows you to bask in the pleasure of driving – speeding along outside under the sun, listening to the tires screech as you approach the limit. Stability control comes as an option only on the top-of-the-line Grand Touring model, so it’s a good thing it never seems like a necessary item lest you have the driving abilities of a plank of wood. With just 167 horsepower to work with at a lofty 7,000 rpm, you...