Today, I
signed over the title for my BRZ Limited 6MT. It remains my favorite 4 seater of all time, but after 4 years and 4 months of automotive bliss (and after much deliberation), I have decided to go back to the MX-5.
I followed the development of the FT86 since the early rumors of Toyota’s successor to the old AE86, reading every article, and even traveling to the NYIAS to see the concepts. I’m member #22 on this forum, and probably the first person in North America to place a deposit for an FT86 (the only car for which I’ve placed a deposit before test driving, or paid MSRP). This email I sent to a friend in early 2012 summed up my enthusiasm:
Quote:
|
Originally Posted by deslock-in-early-2012
Based on the reviews, it's what I've wanted for 15 years: 2+2, sorted out chassis, relatively lightweight, low COG, low yaw moment, good MPG, cheap, RWD, slick short throw, responsive throttle, and great steering feel. It's not very powerful by today's standards, but has plenty of output as far as I'm concerned.
If I didn't need 3 seats, I'd just stick with my Miata (not as rigid, but a blast to drive). I figure this is as close as I can get while I move into the chauffeuring phase of parenthood.
I wouldn't call the FT86 uncompromising nor would I declare any not-yet released car an E30 successor, but for the most part the article is spot on, in my opinion.
http://www.bmwblog.com/2012/01/24/op...r-is-a-toyota/ |
I went into the BRZ test drive with very high expectations, and it didn't disappoint. It was everything I’d hoped for… absurdly responsive and predictable, very easy to slide around, and the best shifter I’ve ever felt in a Subaru. For years I thought it'd be cool if Subru came out with a more efficient and (relatively) high revving boxer, and they achieved that (with some help from Toyota and Yamaha).
However, my plan was always to go back to the MX-5 once I no longer needed rear seats, and that time has arrived.
Still, it took a lot of contemplation before deciding to go through with it. I smiled every time I drove the BRZ. Every time. If something had happened to it while I still needed rear seats, I would’ve gone out and bought another one.
And it’s not as if the MX-5 overshadows the BRZ. In fact, the BRZ has several notable advantages:
- Every input has an immediate effect (the MX-5’s steering is quite good, but it’s not as responsive)
- Flatter and more planted handling
- Engine output doesn't drop off like the MX-5's
- Perfect driver position, seats, and controls layout (though this is quite good in the MX-5 too)
- Has rear seats (good for kids, or even an adult on a short drive), significantly more storage space (larger trunk and fold-flat seats), spare tire
- Stupid easy oil change (oil filter up top with catch basin)
- Fixed roof = less to worry about (vs soft-top)
The BRZ is the ultimate jack-of-all-trades vehicle for those of us that value lightweight, RWD momentum cars, but need a little practicality. Even today I'm still impressed with what Subaru and Toyota accomplished, and part of me thinks I'm crazy for getting rid of it.
However, the MX-5 has its own set of advantages:
- Though its CoG isn’t as low, the car is lighter overall
- Shorter wheelbase makes it fun to flick around at low speeds
- Engine punchier in the mid-range, and the car feels a bit livelier down there (though this is mostly due to the MX-5’s weight advantage)
- Double-wishbone > struts (though the MX’5’s stock suspension is overly soft)
- Fun at any speed (the BRZ has some of that to a certain extent, but isn’t quite as exhilarating at low speeds)
- Slightly nicer interior
- Open-top playfulness
Ultimately, both cars are very capable and a blast to drive. But as much as I adore the BRZ, it’s hard to compete with a roadster’s wind-in-your-hair experience. And utility aside, to me the MX-5's excessive body roll is its only really significant drawback, and that's fairly easy to remedy. Most of the other disadvantages are like comparing a grade of 96% to 98%, and that open-top playfulness beckons.
Anyway, thanks for everything! This site has been a valuable resource, and I wish all of you a fond farewell.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
tl;dr:
- Went from MX-5 to BRZ because rear seats
- After 4 years 4 months of bliss with BRZ, going back to MX-5
- BRZ more responsive and planted, MX-5 more playful, both cars capable and fun
- Thanks for everything, farewell