First revealed back in 1989, the Mazda Miata MX-5->ke1185 has gone on to become the most popular sports car ever built with over 850,000 units sold since its inception. The open top rear wheel drive roadster is currently in its third design phase and for 2010 is being offered in two different variations with the MX-5 starting at $22,810 and the MX-5 Power Retractable Hard Top available as a either a Touring or Grand Touring model with sales starting at $26,850.
The MX-5 Miata is powered by an all new 2.0 Liter four cylinder that puts out 167 HP when shifted manually or 158 HP in the automatic version and 150 ft-lb of torque. While that may not sound like very much grunt, the 2,593 pound Miata is able to play on the track all day long and even though it may take 7.4 seconds to get from 0 to 60 MPH, the thought won't cross your mind as you are passing more powerful cars in a turn.
For the 2010 model year, the MX-5 only receives some minor updates including a few new exterior colors and trim packages. The new MX-5 will be offered as a Sport, Touring and Grand Touring model with standard equipment varying per trim level. New car buyers will be able to choose from items like a six speaker AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary jack for MP3 players as well as fun stuff like a limited slip differential, cruise control, fog lamps and high tech stuff like Bluetooth hands free connectivity and SIRIUS satellite radio.
Full details after the jump.
2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
- Make: Array
- Model: 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
- [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Press release
For more than 20 years, the MX-5 Miata has offered sports car enthusiasts a pure, simple, fun-focused roadster at an attainable price. Sticking to that simple concept has made the MX-5 the most popular two-seat convertible sports car in the world, according to the experts at the Guiness Book of World Records, with more than 850,000 sold.
Substantially refreshed for 2009, the 2010 MX-5 receives minor updates to the model, series and color availability. MX-5 remains the very essence of the "oneness of horse and rider" credo that has guided development of every generation of MX-5.
The heart of the MX-5 remains a highly-responsive MZR-series 2.0-liter, powerplant making 167-horsepower (158 for automatic transmission-equipped models). The MZR is light and compact, featuring chain-driven double overhead camshafts, a lightweight flywheel, variable intake valve timing, electronically controlled port fuel injection and coil-on-plug ignition. Revving smoothly to its 7,200 rpm redline (6700 rpm with an automatic transmission), the flexible 2.0-liter engine delivers 140 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm for driving exhilaration throughout the rev range.
"Whether it's driven up the coast on a sunny afternoon or thrust through the corners on a race track, MX-5's legendary performance will put a smile on your face. Its power is ample, its nimbleness is astounding and its looks timeless, yet fresh and new," said Chris Hill, MX-5 vehicle line manager.
DRIVER-FOCUSED POWERTRAIN
The sophisticated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine gives strong performance, has an inspiring exhaust note, and most important of all, is tremendously responsive. It reacts to driver commands with lightning-quick reflexes, and offers progressive power delivery. Such linearity is the key to all of the MX-5's driving controls.
Classic sports car engine sound has always been a hallmark of the MX-5 Miata. The original 1.6-liter 1990 model was tuned to mimic the sound of dual-carbureted sports cars of the '60s. Key to a fuel-injected engine making that sound is careful tuning of intake resonance, and pointing the engine's air intake at the driver so that sound is delivered with maximum effect. While the 1990 Miata did just that, it drew in hot underhood air from behind the radiator. Today's engine draws in cool air from the nose of the car for better efficiency, but getting that classic induction sound to the driver now requires new technologies.
Since the 2006 model, the lightweight plastic composite intake manifold itself has been designed to transmit certain frequencies that match the classic sports car sound profile, while suppressing less enjoyable sounds. The 2010 six-speed manual models are equipped with an Induction Sound Enhancer (ISE). Made up of a series of tuned pipes and a passive resonance membrane, the ISE delivers the engine's natural induction sound to the cowl, just ahead of the windshield, so pleasing engine sounds can be delivered at a comfortable volume without resorting to simply being loud.
The engine is mounted front mid-ship, for ideal handling balance and nimbleness. It uses an aluminum block and head for lighter weight and structural rigidity, ultimately improving performance and refinement. Chain-driven double-overhead camshafts and 16-valves are used for improved revving and flexibility. Variable intake valve timing improves low-end torque and high-end power.
The engine features a forged steel crankshaft, forged steel connecting rods with floating wrist pins, revised pistons with stronger wrist pin bosses, stiffer valve springs, and an engine oil cooler.
Standard equipment is a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission, and a six-speed manual gearbox is available, with gear ratios close-stacked to enhance the joy of driving. A Sport A/T automatic transmission adds dimension to the MX-5's personality. Six ratios are provided to improve acceleration, driving refinement and freeway comfort. Paddles mounted behind the steering wheel command upshifts while buttons positioned on the spokes are used for downshifts. Coordinating engine torque with the shift sequence results in smooth, seamless, and fast gear changes. The Sport A/T-equipped car is a joy to drive, with gear ratios perfectly matched to the engine's horsepower and torque output.
A STYLE OF ITS OWN
The MX-5's fun and modern exterior design retains the iconic feel of the earlier generation MX-5 Miatas while simultaneously moving it into the future. The body is shaped to make the cockpit the widest portion of the car, delivering a roomier, safer design that still expresses the compact look of a lightweight sports car. Side surfacing is rounded, yet taut - like the skin over a muscled body. Head and tail lamps are mounted inboard to reinforce the sense of compactness that is so central to the car's design philosophy. Joining this modern shape are tail lamps and rearview mirrors that harken back to the elliptical shape of the first-generation MX-5 Miata and a silhouette that could be mistaken for nothing else.
The front of the MX-5 features an aggressive face with a five-point grille and highly-sculpted triangular front fog lamp bezels. The design is functional as well. The bulge below the front fog lamps, the wide air deflectors ahead of the front tires, the side sills, the rounded lower corners of the rear bumper and even the taillights all contribute to a low coefficient of drag.
Mazda virtually invented the easy-to-lower-and-raise soft-top of the original Miata, and the 2010 model continues to set the industry standard. Unlike competitors' models, the top can be lowered or raised with one hand, from inside the car, and requires no bulky or complicated snaps or external latches. The Z-fold design uses a simple, central latch handle that requires only a simple wrist movement to stow.
Introduced in 2007, a Power Retractable Hard Top model remains available in two trim levels - Touring or Grand Touring. This addition to the lineup builds on the soft-top two-seater's zest for life by enhancing year-round comfort and security. Rather than consuming interior or trunk room, the folded roof descends into the same storage well behind the seats where the soft top would have stowed.
Opening and closing cycles last only 12 seconds, making this the fastest power-operated retractable hard top in the U.S., and the only retractable hardtop on the market that doesn't compromise trunk space.
DRIVER-INSPIRED INTERIOR
The interior design theme balances comfortable snugness below shoulder level with openness above, to give the impression of riding in open air.
The T-shaped instrument panel is consistent with Mazda design-DNA while the center console accentuates the backbone of the car. Strong horizontal and vertical theme lines connote rigidity and sports car capability. The black center stack is as simple and functional as possible. The arched hood over the instrument cluster and four circular vents are part of the MX-5's cabin identity.
Wind in the hair is one thing, but nobody enjoys cockpit turbulence and buffeting, especially on long drives. Small quarter windows block drafts between the windshield pillars and door mirrors into the cockpit. An aero board located between the seat back hoops is tall and perforated to slow down reverse-flow air that rushes into the cockpit.
RACE-READY FROM THE DEALERSHIP
Too much weight is bad for athletes, and it's just as bad for sports cars. Weight slows acceleration, lengthens braking distances, dulls handling and cripples fuel economy. Mazda engineers worked hard to make the MX-5 light-weight - all while building a roomy, safe car.
Weight-saving measures include the use of an aluminum hood and trunk lid, aluminum front control arms, aluminum rear uprights and rear calipers. The unibody makes widespread use of high-strength and ultra high-strength steel, boosting body strength while simultaneously cutting weight. The 2.0-liter engine has an aluminum block and head, the exhaust manifold is lightweight tubular steel instead of cast iron, and the intake manifold and cam cover are made from lightweight composite plastic. In the end, MX-5 is very light, yet roomy enough for larger adults, and safe for everyone, thanks to its strong body and safety features (including anti-lock brakes on all trim levels, standard side airbags, and a passenger's airbag cutoff switch so you can carry young children in a child safety seat).
Since the original MX-5 Miata, Mazda engineers have made this light weight possible through their now legendary 'gram strategy'. One of the imperatives for Mazda engineers was making every gram count by assessing the weight of every single component, no matter how insignificant it may seem by itself. By applying this strategy throughout every nook and cranny of the MX-5's design, Mazda engineers were able to create a light, roomier, stronger and safer sports car like no other.
MODELS AND ACCESSORIES
The MX-5 Miata was conceived primarily for the U.S. market, and throughout its 20- plus year history, America has always been the biggest market for what has become the world's best-selling two-seat convertible.
The Sport model (soft top only) represents the least expensive way of getting into an MX-5. It comes with a five-speed manual gearbox, lightweight 16-inch aluminum wheels, power-adjusted door mirrors, air conditioning, leather-covered steering wheel, dual exhausts, power windows, cloth upholstery, AM/FM/CD player with six speakers, audio auxiliary jack, dual front airbags and side airbags. An optional Convenience Package offers cruise control, fog lamps, one-touch power down windows with remote keyless entry, power door locks, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and trip computer.
The Touring model, in addition, gets fog lamps, cruise control, Remote Keyless Entry with retractable key, steering wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomelinkTM, a trip computer and an in-dash six-disc CD changer. The five-speed is replaced with a six-speed manual gearbox with leather shift knob, and lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels are standard. A Suspension Package, available on Touring models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission, adds sport-tuned Bilstein shocks, a larger rear stabilizer bar and Limited Slip Differential (LSD).
The Grand Touring model gets heated leather seats, automatic climate control, cloth soft top, and a BOSE® audio system with seven speakers.
When upgrading to the Grand Touring with Premium Package, the vehicle gets Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry & Start System, DSC with Traction Control, Anti-theft alarm and HID headlights. New features added to the Premium Package in 2010 are Bluetooth® hands-free phone and SIRIUS® satellite radio. Grand Touring models equipped with M/T and the Premium Package also require the Suspension Package.
SPORTS CAR HERITAGE
Mazda has a distinguished history of producing great sports cars. The first Mazda sports car to win worldwide recognition and praise was the rotary-powered Cosmo Sport 110S launched in 1967.
The RX-7, which followed in 1978, won the hearts of sports car enthusiasts and was a dominant force on the racetrack. The original MX-5 Miata, launched in 1989 as a 1990 model, revolutionized the affordable two-seat roadster market. Mazda's introduction of the RX-8 redefined the boundaries of sports car design by offering spectacular performance and comfortable accommodation for four adults in one innovative sports car package.
All of Mazda's considerable expertise and passion for designing great sports cars was drawn on for the latest third-generation MX-5.
And while Mazda likes to say that every one of its cars has the soul of a sports car, the MX-5 truly does, as it is the single most-raced nameplate in the world.
All 2010 Mazdas come with a roadside assistance program. With a call to a toll-free number, owners can access roadside assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year throughout the United States and Canada. In addition, a comprehensive three-year/36,000-mile warranty covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. Also, all 2010 models receive a five-year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.
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Specifications
2010 MX-5 Miata |
Sport |
Touring |
Grand Touring |
Engine |
|||
Engine type |
MZR 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine |
MZR 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine |
MZR 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine |
Horsepower |
|||
- Manual transmission |
167 hp @ 7000 rpm |
167 hp @ 7000 rpm |
167 hp @ 7000 rpm |
- Automatic transmission |
158 hp @ 6700 rpm |
158 hp @ 6700 rpm |
158 hp @ 6700 rpm |
Torque |
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm |
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm |
140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm |
Redline |
|||
- Manual transmission |
7200 rpm |
7200 rpm |
7200 rpm |
- Automatic transmission |
6700 rpm |
6700 rpm |
6700 rpm |
Displacement (cc) |
1999 |
1999 |
1999 |
Bore x stroke (mm) |
87.5 x 83.1 |
87.5 x 83.1 |
87.5 x 83.1 |
Compression ratio |
10.8:1 |
10.8:1 |
10.8:1 |
Fuel system |
Multiport electronic fuel injection with tuned air intake |
Multiport electronic fuel injection with tuned air intake |
Multiport electronic fuel injection with tuned air intake |
Recommended fuel |
Premium unleaded |
Premium unleaded |
Premium unleaded |
Ignition system |
Coil on plug |
Coil on plug |
Coil on plug |
Valve train |
4 valves per cylinder, variable valve timing (VVT) with timing-chain-driven camshafts |
4 valves per cylinder, variable valve timing (VVT) with timing-chain-driven camshafts |
4 valves per cylinder, variable valve timing (VVT) with timing-chain-driven camshafts |
Engine block |
Aluminum alloy |
Aluminum alloy |
Aluminum alloy |
Cylinder head |
Aluminum alloy |
Aluminum alloy |
Aluminum alloy |
Crankshaft |
Forged steel |
Forged steel |
Forged steel |
Connecting rods |
Forged steel |
Forged steel |
Forged steel |
Emission control type (Fed/Cal) |
Tier2 - BIN5 / LEV-II ULEV |
Tier2 - BIN5 / LEV-II ULEV |
Tier2 - BIN5 / LEV-II ULEV |
Fuel economy |
|||
Manual transmission (city/hwy) |
22/28 |
21/28 |
21/28 |
Automatic transmission (city/hwy) |
21/28 |
21/28 |
21/28 |
Drivetrain |
|||
Type |
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
Manual transmission |
5-speed with short-throw shifter |
6-speed close-ratio with short-throw shifter |
6-speed close-ratio with short-throw shifter |
Automatic transmission |
6-speed Sport with Adaptive Shift Logic and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters |
6-speed Sport with Adaptive Shift Logic and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters |
6-speed Sport with Adaptive Shift Logic and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters |
Differential |
Available torque-sensing limit-slip (manual transmission only) |
Available torque-sensing limit-slip (manual transmission only) |
Available torque-sensing limit-slip (manual transmission only) |
Gear Ratios (:1) |
5MT |
6MT |
6AT |
1st |
3.14 |
3.82 |
3.54 |
2nd |
1.89 |
2.26 |
2.06 |
3rd |
1.33 |
1.64 |
1.40 |
4th |
1.00 |
1.18 |
1.00 |
5th |
0.81 |
1.00 |
0.71 |
6th |
- |
0.79 |
0.58 |
Reverse |
3.76 |
3.60 |
3.17 |
Final drive |
4.10 |
4.10 |
4.10 |
Chassis |
|||
Frame |
Aluminum Power Plant Frame |
Aluminum Power Plant Frame |
Aluminum Power Plant Frame |
Brakes |
Power-assist 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist |
Power-assist 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist |
Power-assist 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist |
- Front |
11.4-inch vented disc |
11.4-inch vented disc |
11.4-inch vented disc |
- Rear |
11.0-inch solid disc with aluminum brake calipers |
11.0-inch solid disc with aluminum brake calipers |
11.0-inch solid disc with aluminum brake calipers |
Steering type |
Rack-and-pinion with variable power assist |
Rack-and-pinion with variable power assist |
Rack-and-pinion with variable power assist |
Overall steering ratio |
15.0:1 |
15.0:1 |
15.0:1 |
Steering wheel turns-to-lock |
2.7 |
2.7 |
2.7 |
Turning circle diameter, curb-to-curb (ft) |
30.8 |
30.8 |
30.8 |
Suspension |
4-wheel independent |
4-wheel independent |
4-wheel independent |
- Front |
Double wishbone, coil springs and stabilizer bar |
Double wishbone, coil springs and stabilizer bar |
Double wishbone, coil springs and stabilizer bar |
- Rear |
Multilink, coil springs and stabilizer bar |
Multilink, coil springs and stabilizer bar |
Multilink, coil springs and stabilizer bar |
- Stabilizer bar (front) |
Hollow |
Hollow |
Hollow |
- Stabilizer bar (rear) |
Solid |
Solid |
Solid |
- Springs |
Available sport-tuned coil springs |
Available sport-tuned coil springs |
Available sport-tuned coil springs |
- Front strut tower brace |
- |
Standard |
Standard |
Shock absorbers |
Gas-filled, double acting; available Bilstein® |
Gas-filled, double acting; available Bilstein® |
Gas-filled, double acting; available Bilstein® |
Wheel size (in) |
16 x 6.5 |
17 x 7.0 |
17 x 7.0 |
Tire size |
P205/50R16 V-speed-rated radial tires |
P205/45R17 W-speed-rated radial tires |
P205/45R17 W-speed-rated radial tires |
Weights & Capacities |
|||
Curb weight (lbs) |
|||
- MT |
2480 |
2511 |
2511 |
- AT |
2542 |
2542 |
2542 |
Weight distribution (front/rear) |
52/48 |
52/48 |
52/48 |
Fuel capacity (gallons) |
12.7 |
12.7 |
12.7 |
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Prices
2010 Mazda MX-5
Model |
Description |
MSRP |
SPORT |
5 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION |
$22,810 |
SPORT (includes 1CP equipment) |
6 SPEED SPORT AT |
$25,070 |
TOURING |
6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION |
$25,150 |
TOURING |
6 SPEED SPORT AT |
$26,250 |
GRAND TOURING |
6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION |
$26,410 |
GRAND TOURING |
6 SPEED SPORT AT |
$27,510 |
Packages and options
CODE |
PACKAGE |
APPLICATION |
MSRP |
1CP |
Convenience Package |
Sport 5MT (standard on Sport 6AT model) |
$1160 |
2PR |
Premium Package |
Grand Touring |
$1650 |
1SP |
Suspension Package |
Touring - G. Touring (Only for 6MT) |
$500 |
CE1 |
ULEV Emissions Equipment |
All (Required in CA, CT, MA, ME, NJ, NY, OR, PA, RI, VT, WA) |
N C |
RF1 |
Run Flat Tires |
Grand Touring (6AT only, Region order only) |
$400 |
Accessories
CODE |
PACKAGE |
APPLICATION |
MSRP |
1AP |
Appearance Package |
N/A with MGB (Splashguards) |
$1145 |
CDC |
In-Dash 6-Disc CD/MP3 Changer |
Sport |
$500 |
CGN |
Cargo Net |
ALL |
$49 |
DEG |
Door Edge Guards |
ALL |
$78 |
FLA |
All-Weather Floor Mats |
ALL |
$45 |
FLD |
Chrome Fuel-filler Door |
ALL |
$100 |
MGB |
Front and Rear Splash Guards |
N/A with 1AP |
$315 |
PSL |
Perimeter alarm system with shock sensor |
Excludes Sport without Convenience pkg |
$181 |
RSP |
Rear Lip Spoiler |
ALL |
$400 |
SAT |
SIRIUS Satellite Radio - 6-month Subscription |
ALL |
$430 |
WLK |
Wheel Locks |
ALL |
$50 |
2010 Mazda MX-5 PRHT (Power Retractable Hard Top)
Trim |
Specifications |
MSRP |
TOURING |
W/ 6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION |
$26,850 |
TOURING |
W/ 6 SPEED SPORT AT |
$27,950 |
GRAND TOURING |
W/ 6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION |
$28,250 |
GRAND TOURING |
W/ 6 SPEED SPORT AT |
$29,350 |
Packages and options
CODE |
PACKAGE |
APPLICATION |
MSRP |
2PR |
Premium Package |
Grand Touring |
$1650 |
1SP |
Suspension Package |
Touring / G. Touring (Only for 6MT) |
$500 |
CE1 |
ULEV Emissions Equipment |
All (Required in CA, CT, MA, ME, NJ, NY, OR, PA, RI, VT, WA) |
N C |
Accessories
CODE |
PACKAGE |
APPLICATION |
MSRP |
1AP |
Appearance Package |
ALL (cannot be combined with MGB Splash Guards) |
$1145 |
CGN |
Cargo Net |
ALL (N/A with 2PR) |
$49 |
DEG |
Door Edge Guards |
ALL |
$78 |
FLA |
All-Weather Floor Mats |
ALL |
$45 |
FLD |
Chrome Fuel-filler Door |
ALL |
$100 |
MGB |
Front and Rear Splash Guards |
ALL |
$315 |
PSL |
Perimeter alarm system with shock sensor |
ALL |
$181 |
SAT |
SIRIUS Satellite Radio w/6-month Subscription |
ALL |
$430 |
WLK |
Wheel Locks |
ALL |
$50 |
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Competitors and press reviews
"The MX-5 has an unbelievable sense of balance and control. You can drive it like a hooligan on an autocross, sliding the rear around wherever you want to. Anticipating a drift and dialing in opposite lock becomes a sixth sense. The chassis communicates its movements clearly. It's just as fun on bumpy country roads too, with quick reflexes begging you to eke closer to the limit. The induction note sings each of the 167 horses through the cabin, becoming sweeter as you to reach toward the 7200-rpm redline. With the top down, there's literally nothing separating you from the experience."(MotorTrend)
"The 2.0-liter power plant's 170 horsepower arrives at 7,000 rpm, not 6,700 rpm, while the redline has climbed 500 rpm to 7,500 rpm. This enables you to squeeze that little bit extra out of the 2.0-liter inline-4's top end to get the full 170 hp. You really appreciate this upgrade when you exit a corner and want every herb on tap to get a quick escape. And as someone who races an MX-5 in Japan, we'll tell you that the top-end power will be more than welcome when we come out of the hairpin bends at Tsukuba Circuit looking for a quick exit." (InsideLine)
"At the top of the Miata range is a PRHT (power retractable hardtop) model, which is very well executed; when the hardtop is retracted and folded away, the Miata still has 5.3 cubic feet of trunk space. While that’s much smaller than any sedan, it’s large enough for most overnight bags or a couple of duffels. The PRHT model adds very little extra weight, and the top stows away in just 12 seconds; unlike some other hardtop convertible models, it doesn’t hamper the fun." (TheCarConnection)
Competitors
The S2000 is powered by a 4-cylinder engine that delivers 237 hp. Prices for the 2009 model are ranging from $34,795 for the S2000 to $36,795 for the lightweight S2000 CR. The Honda S2000 will be replaced in 2012.
The 2009 Pontiac Solstice is powered by a 2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 173 hp and 167 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission. Prices for the Pontiac Solstice start at $24,945. There will be no 2010 model.
The 2009 Sky is powered by a 2.4L DOHC Ecotec engine with variable valve timing, producing 173 hp and 167 lb.-ft. of torque. Prices for the 2009 Sky start at $28,265. Like with the Pontiac Solstice, there will be no 2010 model produced.
Conclusion
With GM dropping the Pontiac Solstice and the Saturn Sky, the MX-5 remains pretty much the only model in its class on the market. Or if you can afford to pay and extra $10k you can get an Audi TT or for even more a BMW Z4 Roadster. Bu that's another story.
So, if you want a small roadster the MX-5 is the only choice you have at the moment. But don't worry, the car worth all the money! And considering it has entered the Guinness Book of World Records as the most popular sports car ever built, we think we made our point.
The 2010 MX-5 is sleek, capable, well-engineered, delightful, and fun. The car handles very well, and the manual gearbox is quite fun while cornering. And if you are a fan of power-retractable hardtop, then the MX-5 is just the car for you. But, we have to say that the MX-5 has also a few minuses: there are no crash-test data so you can't know how it will handle on a crash and also while driving it on the highway is quite noisy.
To conclude, what will you get for around $25K? It's quite easy: a technologically advanced sports car, with enough power and excellent handling. And it is also small and light as the current market requires.