I just wish that we got the 2,200 pound version with the 1.5L engine here in the states. That sounds like the ideal setup for the ND, even according to Mazda.

Well removing Miata from my checklist.

Was hoping for <= 2400lbs and 200hp.

Perhaps i didn't notice in the press, is this Miata manual only unlike the NC?

The way I see it:

Pros:
-Looks
-Front-mid engine weight balance
-Excellent steering and turn-in
-Nicer interior than in the past

Cons:
-Still very underpowered
-STILL has soft stock suspension with lots of body roll (I really hate this one)
-4 Lug wheels (WHY?!)

This makes for a car that I would buy a cheap used version of when they become available strictly to have as a toy/tuner project, but not a car I would drop $20-$30k on to purchase new. Oh well. Such is typical of the Miata, I suppose.

In Europe - yes

In the US - We will get the bigger 2.0L only and the option for an auto.

Added a Pro.

What is wrong with 4 lug wheels? Mazda races the snot out of Miatas and the 4 lugs are perfectly adequate for the worse abuse in autoX, roadracing and rally/rallyX. Are you talking styling?

With the Miata I think that can be done very easy with aftermarket. Even in the USA, we should see the car under 2400LBS(I am guessing between 2325-2375LBS) and aftermarket small super charger should be doable.

Nothing is really wrong with them, per se. I just don't see the point. Going with 5 lugs not only looks better but gives more options, as it is more common and more popular among enthusiasts.

Alot of people are skeptical because we don't know how mod friendly it will be. The FI guys are going to have a hard time with such a high compression engine.

I remember delivering pizzas in a 1900 lbs CR-X with barely 100 HP from a 1.5, then I swapped a 1.8 DOHC LS motor (non-vtec) 1836 cc if I recall, and that thing felt fucking amazing, so much torque everywhere, and I could squeal gears 1-3 all day. The power to weight felt awesome. But the motor kept breaking the engine and tranny mounts... and eventually the car was destroyed.

Ever since then I always wanted that same feeling. I won't know until I test drive the new MX-5.

I could have gotten close if I stripped out my FR-S, but I couldn't do that to a brand new car. It's also nice driving off the lot with less than 10 miles on the odometer, and a full factory warranty.

Or I could just ride a bike until I find a nice 09 CR S2K, but I'm not gonna hold my breath... Maybe even look for an older NS-X, that would be pretty cool too.

:thumbup:

Don't bash the ND too much... even with a paltry 155 HP, it ought to be about as fast as the FT86, if not slightly faster. Low-end acceleration will especially favor the ND.

The anticipated curb weight (2290-2360 pounds in US trim) is primarily what makes the ND so exciting. Straight line acceleration will be reasonable, and it'll be an absolute blast to flog on back roads.

I would've preferred that they pushed redline up to 7500 and delivered 170 HP, but even without that, I'm getting an ND in ~5 years (when I no longer need a back seat).

I am trading in my FRS for the ND.

A good read. ^^

http://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars...zda-mx5-miata/

I love this car...but I wish it had a fixed roof or the engine were behind the driver or both. But it's seriously good, if you're into FRs. Short wheelbase, lightweight, I love it. Gonna keep on waiting for a new MR2 or baby Porsche personally.