The Mazda MX-5 Miata is proof that you don’t need massive horsepower, a heavy chassis, or a sky-high price tag to have an incredible driving experience. As a BMW M2 owner, I’ve realized that modern performance cars are often too powerful, too big, and too expensive to truly enjoy on the road. That’s why I decided to take the Mazda MX-5 ND2 for a drive—to find out if this lightweight roadster is the ultimate driver’s car and the perfect antidote to modern performance excess.
In this in-depth review, I cover:
Why the Mazda MX-5 is a cult classic – What makes the Miata special, and why it has remained a favorite among petrolheads for over three decades.
Exterior walkaround & performance upgrades – Featuring its limited-slip differential (LSD), Brembo brakes, lightweight chassis, and near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution.
Interior & practicality – Is the MX-5 cabin driver-focused, well-built, and comfortable for daily use?
POV driving experience – A first-person driving impression that highlights how fun, engaging, and responsive the 2.0L naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G engine feels on the road.
How does it compare to the BMW M2? – Why this small, light, and affordable roadster delivers more real-world fun than a high-horsepower sports car.
The Mazda MX-5 is often called the answer to everything, and after spending time behind the wheel, I understand why. It’s a pure driver’s car—a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car that delivers raw driving joy without the complications of big power, excessive weight, or electronic interference.
What do you think? Would you trade a high-performance coupe like the BMW M2, Toyota Supra, or Porsche Cayman for the simplicity and fun of an MX-5 Miata? Let me know in the comments!
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00:00 Intro
01:32 What does MX5 mean?
03:10 Walkaround
04:42 Interior
06:50 Driving
08:59 Roof Down