The Mazda Miata has been in production for over 30 years now, and with every passing generation, it has managed to stay true to its wonderful formula of sheer driving pleasure. Over four generations, the Miata has remained an authentic lightweight sports car and extremely fun to drive. Even for the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata, the fun formula remains unchanged.

Throughout its existence, the Japanese Manufacturer ensured to retain its primary characteristic, which is to be lightweight and affordable. The small capacity engine never let the Miata down, and due to its light nature, Mazda can offer an incredible power-to-weight ratio. Besides, the rear-wheel-drive nature makes it a boon to drive around the corners.

The humble engine also results in great fuel economy. And the light, agile chassis makes the vehicle very fun to drive, even on racetracks. the MX-5 is one of those few vehicles that reminds us that fun is not about performance figures alone. This sports car is the master and jack of all trades!

The Mazda Miata will go down in history as one of the greatest sports cars ever made. And the secret behind this is simplicity!

Mazda Miata Offers A Fun Driving Experience

An image of the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Via: Mazda

The Miata always had a rev-happy engine, and the inclusion of a short-throw manual gearbox elevates the driving experience to a whole new level. For the latest generation, Mazda has eliminated the automatic transmission from most of their Miata models, and it is only available on the top trim while all others use the 6-speed manual. The vehicle gets a single-engine option across the range, and it happens to be a Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter capable of producing 181 HP and 151 lb-ft of torque.

These numbers might seem less for a sports car, but because the Miata has always been a lightweight car with a curb weight of just over 2,300 lbs, it has an incredible power-to-weight ratio. The carmaker offers two body styles, a hard top, and a convertible soft top. The performance figures slightly vary for both of them as the hard top can make the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 5.8 seconds, whereas the convertible soft top does it in 5.7 seconds due to the lighter roof mechanism.

Besides, the car also has an incredible 50-50 weight distribution allowing it to feel planted along the corner. The vehicle also gets stiffer springs and a limited-slip differential to aid this further. Its top speed happens to be 140 mph, and the lightweight character of the Miata also enhances the overall fuel efficiency.

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Mazda MX-5 Miata's Handling And Modification Appeal

2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata's Interior view
Mazda

Another aspect where Miata rules are the reliability factor. Apart from this, the car’s parts are very easily available and not particularly expensive, so they are fairly easy to modify. A few basic parts swaps like a custom air intake and a free flow exhaust will drastically increase the power figure.

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There are even instances of Miatas being transformed into a turbocharged beast. Apart from this, the vehicle’s low center of gravity makes it turn around corners very smoothly. The Miata is one of those few vehicles in which drivers can perfect the art of cornering.

Besides, the carmaker ensures overall smooth handling and the Miata changes directions instantly. The steering is also fairly light for everyday city use and responds immediately to even the slightest inputs. The added benefit of exceptional fuel economy makes things even better since gas prices are rising.

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Miatas Have Always Been Benefactors Of Advanced Japanese Craftsmanship

2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata, Red
Via: Mazda

The Miata was designed to be as small and compact as possible while being the most comfortable. The front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout was adopted so that the vehicle would have a perfect 50-50 weight distribution. The wheels of the vehicle were pushed towards the end of the chassis. This allowed a lot of room on the inside, and the car was glued to the road irrespective of the driving conditions.

Another thing that made the older generations of the Miata, so popular was the pop-up headlamps that it offered. The lights would pop out at the flick of a switch on the interior, and when on a show, they would give the front end a very cute look that suited the car's character. It was first unveiled at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, and it was an instant hit. The Mazda Miata is a legendary sports car that will always be remembered for its sheer simplicity. Overall, it was a very cute car with great driving dynamics.

Besides, the carmaker’s philosophy of ‘Jinbai Ittai’ literally means the oneness of a horse and rider. The carmaker used this concept to create a similar relationship between car and driver. The current generation Miata starts with an MSRP of $27,650, but these cars are also available in the used car market for a bargain. The endless list of modifications and the pristine Japanese reliability make the Miata a preferred gearhead choice.

Source: Mazda