On a list of cars that truly deserve the Regular Car Reviews treatment, the original NA-generation Miata has to be somewhere at the top. They initially tested the first generation of the sportscar back in 2013 and now they’re back for a social breakdown of the NA Miata phenomenon.
To us, the Miata Mazda built between 1989 and 1998, has always been some sort of ambassador for the entire automotive breed. Seriously, what do you do if your kid comes to you one day and asks you - “Daddy, what’s the difference between a car and some random appliance we use everyday?”
I haven’t gotten to that day yet, but I am prepared for it. That’s because I’ve always considered the feelings and emotions our cars are capable of generating is what essentially differentiates them from our toasters. That and build complexity.
The NA Miata wasn’t exactly a complex car and this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but let’s return to those feelings and emotions, shall we?
Despite being a pacifist vehicle by all means (just look at that cute face or check out the diminutive 1.6-liter engine), the original Miata has quite the power to split opinions. This roadster is far from perfect and yet its affordability, among others, makes it a member of the overrated cars club. Heck, even these lines back this conclusion up.
Spoiler alert - the review brings us a 1990 Miata with over 100,000 miles on its odo and a rusty exhaust. Don't worry, it's probably all covered under the "personality" excuse.
In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist. Full profile
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