Confession: I don't like the Miata

"Logansteno: Bought a VW?" (logansteno)
05/08/2014 at 21:37 • Filed to: None

Please keep death threats short and sweet.

After months of being on this website, I've finally reached a point where I'm comfortable saying this: I don't like the Mazda MX-5 Miata whatsoever. Not even a little bit.

Now before you track my IP and burn my house down, let me explain myself.

The Miata, when it came out, was one of the most popular roadsters on the planet. It still is, really. But personally, I've never liked the thing. It's too small, too under powered, too outdated, and too impractical.

I'm 6'3, so I'm not exactly the tallest person in the world. But when I sit in a Miata, my eyes are damn near even with the top of the windshield. That means the top won't go up and I'd have to drive around in the winter without a roof. Yet, when I sit in a Solstice or Sky, my head has a decent amount of room.

It's 2014, there's no reason for a 2.0 liter engine to be making anything less than 180 horsepower. Yet, here's the Miata, with 167. Just because it's a car built for handling purposes mostly, doesn't mean it can't have a decent amount of power. When trucks are beating a compact, light sports-car to 60, we have a bit of a problem. Don't even tell me they couldn't update the motor in the 8 years the NC has been on sale.

For being Mazda's coveted model, it sure hasn't changed much since the NC's launch in 2006. What car doesn't offer Bluetooth or Nav nowadays? Even the bloody Mirage offers that kind of stuff. Would it have killed them to update it other than a bumper?

I don't think I need to explain why it's impractical.

I'm not trying to offend people who own a Miata, this is just how I feel about it. If I get the chance to drive one (with a manual) one day, maybe my mind will be changed a little bit, but for now this is where I stand. So, no, I am not about that Miata life.

DISCUSSION (91)

Brian Silvestro > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:39

I..... disagree!

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > Brian Silvestro
05/08/2014 at 21:40

Quiet, Fiesta boy. You didn't chose it either!

D > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:42

What a basic fuckin' post. Like I haven't read this shit a million times in my life.

PheeNoIVI > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:43

Before joining here, I wasn't much of a fan. I mean a beat one in my 140hp Celica. So I never thought twice about them. But I've really started to like them. I haven't driven one. They've always been the girly s2000 to me. But I've started to appreciate what they are. And after the Laguna Seca race last weekend. I got to see them race. They are badass.

Soloburrito > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:44

i'm 6'4" 250+ and own a 99. I have a shell seat that is bolted directly to the floor and it works with a helmet.

I dd a mustang so you could say I'm spoiled by awesome, always available torque.

When I first drove my car after fixing it. I didn't want to stop. It was late evening, the sun was setti g and I was on my favorite road. It was the greatest feeling in the world. Top down, amazing gearbox, wonderful noise.

The only thing that went through my mind was "this is it. This is driving in it's purest form.

Drive one.

Vicente Esteve > Brian Silvestro
05/08/2014 at 21:44

Kinja'd!!!

Spaceball-Two > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:45

Ok. Water is warm. I'll jump in. I've driven a couple. I liked it. Won't lie. But I have zero use for one. I live in a climate (Seattle) that sees sun roughly 42 days a year and there is ALWAYS a chance of water on the ground mixed with who knows what. I do like that they look so happy!

jkm7680 > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:45

I'm around the same height as you and I've sat in Miatas. Honestly, I wasn't that comfortable to DD one. I just felt that it was too impractical for my needs.

Vicente Esteve > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:46

Kinja'd!!!

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > PheeNoIVI
05/08/2014 at 21:46

I like the idea of the Miata, I really do. It just needs even more refining; or maybe I need to lower my standards of what a car that can top out in the mid-30s offers.

wbizarre - OEM fetishist > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:47

Good on you for expressing your opinion! I'm no fan of the MX5 either (I also wish it was called the MX5 here, instead of Miata). I think the NA has a certain charm, but the following two generations don't do anything for me at all. However, I don't think it has to win drag pulls against pick-up trucks. Speed is not what that car is about. Think of it as the bottom rung of sporty cars.

The Real Dacia Sandero > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:47

As a Miata owner, you aren't inaccurate in your observations. However, it's supposed to be an extension of the old MGBs and so on. Yes it's slow, yes it's "outdated", yes it's small, but that's the point. It's outdated, because making a fancy interior adds weight. It's slow, because its a fast car through the driver's skills and not raw power.

On the early Miatas(up to 2006) there's a piece of foam you can take out of the bottom of the seat pad that lowers it an inch or so. That should get you to where you want it. Also, boost is cheap on these cars. The engines were made to be turbo'd, so internals work is unnecessary until above 250-275hp. With that much power in a 2100-2400lb car, you'll have trouble even putting the power down without big sticky tires.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > D
05/08/2014 at 21:47

Can't tell if serious or...

Vicente Esteve > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:49

Hahah its great you give your sincere Oppoinion. Oh, here you go

Kinja'd!!!

D > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:49

100%

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > jkm7680
05/08/2014 at 21:50

Like I said, I'd have to drive it top down all the time to even sit in it. Impractical is an understatement.

jkm7680 > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:51

Same, it just doesn't work for taller folks such as you and I.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > wbizarre - OEM fetishist
05/08/2014 at 21:52

The NA has charm for days. But like you said, the other two have nothing going for them to me.

I just think that this thing should be at least breaking the 6 second mark at this point.

Axial > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:52

A Miata with an LS-engine is a Miata that's been fixed.

I kid.

Still, I'm not much of a fan of the car either. I like what it represents and I actually like the small size (I'm 5' 9"), and it constantly reminds me that my Corvette is huge, but I don't like the way it looks and I don't like that engine. I like my cars to look aggressive and there's no excuse for an engine making only 167 HP when you can make twice that today for almost no added weight. Sure, it's not about raw speed, but you know what? If you can, why not? Powering out of a turn is just as fun as making that turn smoothly.

PheeNoIVI > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:53

Yeah Brian skipped right over it this week! He's hiding his hatred in the closet!

PheeNoIVI > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:53

I agree. I want more out of a car. But for what it is. Its sweet.

heliochrome85 > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:53

I AGREE WITH YOUR POST SIR.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > The Real Dacia Sandero
05/08/2014 at 21:55

The NA was an extension of those old British classics, the NB and NC just seem like generic sports cars to me.

Honestly, how much does a Nav system weigh? maybe 10 pounds?

There's a ton of aftermarket for this thing I know, but just that little bump to 180 from the factory might be enough.

Tom McParland > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:56

I like them. I don't want one.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > D
05/08/2014 at 21:56

To each his own, these are my points and I'm sticking to them. There's a reason you've heard them a million times.

Squid > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 21:56

Well the Miata has always been more about driving than creature comforts. Really it is hard to try to carry a bluetooth phone conversation in a convertible. . . Really like road noise up the wazoo and having to yell at the mic on the steering wheel so the other person can hear you. . . I wasn't completely sold on the Miata for a long time, then my car got totaled and it was time to shop for a new car and I decided to live with a Miata, I'm a 13 months in and about 7,500 miles down the road with a NB. Granted you have about 2 inches in height on me but it is a nice tight fit for me, you more put the Miata on than get into it. . . But honestly they are fun cars to have and the lack of power is made up by a super responsive chassis. Go out and find one to drive for a little while, while they are not a perfect solution for an only car, they are worth having.

Also, everyone is entitled to an opinion and I respect that. But you need to drive one on a nice twisty bit of road and then tell me you don't like the car.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > heliochrome85
05/08/2014 at 21:57

YAY.

Squid > Soloburrito
05/08/2014 at 21:59

Is your seat a kirkey? I only ask because I'm 6'1" and 240 with a 99 as well. Been trying to figure out what to do to get more head and leg room.

Frank Grimes > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:01

I am 5' 11" and I had to remove the drivers side visor I felt so cramped and claustophobic and couldnt easily see traffic lights but after that I love it! I never thought I would be a miata kind of person until I test drove the one I bought and I was all like MIATA LIFE!

I have owned a few different cars the fastest being a 1995 Z28 and the miata is not as fast as that car but a manual with the 133hp in my miata never feels slow but obviously is not a drag terror. Theres something people keep repeating about these cars and its true the whole package is pretty great in working together there is just something about the simplicity lightness and the handling and transmission and crap that all works together to make it a fun experience. Mine is stock and I even love the way it sounds.

Kinja'd!!!

D > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:01

No I'm saying I've heard these "I hate this car and here's why" posts a million times. I never chime in but this is one too many... I think when you seriously compared a Miata to a pickup truck I got pushed into insanity

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > Squid
05/08/2014 at 22:02

My aunt's BMW 328i 'very has bluetooth, but it probably has half the road noise this thing has. But there's really no excuse for the lack of a navigation offering.

I understand the Miata is supposed to be a car you "wear" but when I can't even put the top up because my head is over the windshield, there's a bit of a size issue. When I sit in the FR-S, I feel like I'm wearing that car.

Brian Silvestro > D
05/08/2014 at 22:04

THANK YOU

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > D
05/08/2014 at 22:05

A work vehicle should not be beating a purpose built sports car to highway speeds. So yes, I did compare a truck to a Miata.

And the first person who says 0-60 isn't everything is getting hit through the internet. I know it isn't, but it's a decently important factor.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > Frank Grimes
05/08/2014 at 22:08

I just can't Miata. Even if it's sublime in terms of handling and chassis dynamics. I can't take being beaten at a stop light by a Silverado. I'm a power person and this just doesn't deliver for me.

Brian Silvestro > Vicente Esteve
05/08/2014 at 22:08

THIS GIF DOES NOT APPLY TO THIS POST, THERE'S A REASON I DIDN'T USE IT

Squid > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:10

I dunno, I have a phone and before that I used maps. . . I don't see Navigation as an essential option to have. Plus in all honesty, I've been disapointed with every factory nav system I've used.

My sisters Mini 'vert has the bluetooth but she rarely uses it because it is just not that effective.

Have you tried an NA or NB? the NC has decidedly less head room for some reason. I don't know why that is.

jariten1781 > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:11

I've had an NA for about a decade. I don't think I could live with it as a primary car, too many compromises, but as a toy it's pretty damned amazing.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > Squid
05/08/2014 at 22:12

I'll see if I can find a nice NA owner who would let me try sitting in one. But the NC is a no go.

D > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:13

You need to learn to speak for yourself and not others... many people don't give two fucks about 0-60

dogisbadob > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:16

Do you really need bluetooth or expensive factory nav that will be outdated before you're done paying it off? Way too many cars have way too much stupid tech shit for no reason.

Oh you're only 6'3, so short! You're only taller than the 99.5%

Don't you wish the Elise was available with heated and cooled connolly leather seats and a Mark Levinson stereo with 79 speakers and a 40-inch touchscreen?

I do lament the demise of the Solstice/Sky, its only serious competition of late. Competition does make for better cars.

I'm surprised you didn't mention the V6 Mustang convertible :p

wkiernan > Spaceball-Two
05/08/2014 at 22:18

I live in Florida. They're really fun to drive in the rain and the top is pretty good.

The best top for driving in the rain is one of the cheap, light good old ones that had a plastic window held in with a zipper. You could unzip the back window and get fresh air even when it was raining. Also, if you locked your keys in the car it was trivially easy to unzip the window from outside and then you could reach in and retrieve them. If I ever get a top replaced it will be with black vinyl and a zip plastic window.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > D
05/08/2014 at 22:18

Because I ever said anything about what other people give a fuck about? When did any of those words leave my fucking mouth? I'm a person who give a shit about acceleration, so when tell me 0-60 isn't everything I get a little annoyed. I think it is, so I said that. So here's an idea, stop putting words in my damn mouth.

JR1 > D
05/08/2014 at 22:19

I mean I get the whole it feels fast . I get it, but at the same time the guy makes a point. It could be a bit lighter and a bit faster.

D > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:19

And the first person who says 0-60 isn't everything is getting hit through the internet. I know it isn't, but it's a decently important factor.

Moose Kitty > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:19

Hey the only reason i don't love the miata is i can fit in one comfortably. I like it for the 7 mins I can stay in one without critical failure of my kneecaps.

Frank Grimes > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:20

yeah I understand that. I was trying to catch up to a maxima on an on ramp and it wasn't happening of course I haven't pushed it very hard yet. I plan on slapping on a turbo or rotrex when I have a load of cash lying around.

Vicente Esteve > Brian Silvestro
05/08/2014 at 22:21

Hahah I think It would have been usable if I put: "No Miata Life?" before it.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > dogisbadob
05/08/2014 at 22:22

Please, riddle to me how Bluetooth gets outdated? Has it really changed much since it's introduction? Some people want nav in their cars, I'm personally not one of them, but people want it.

I see people everyday that are taller than me. I never said I was short.

You're missing my point... I'm just done trying to explain myself.

Spaceball-Two > wkiernan
05/08/2014 at 22:23

I imagine you have humidity issues there as well. The last time I drove and rode in one it was a foggy mess. Now that could have been the seals... Weather is always something we have to take in to account. We actually get a fair amount of snow per year.

Soloburrito > Squid
05/08/2014 at 22:23

similar. It's an ultrashield spec miata seat.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > D
05/08/2014 at 22:25

I should have added to me at the end of that. So I'm sorry that you misunderstood. But I've heard 0-60 isn't everything so often it's getting fucking ridiculous.

Brian Silvestro > Vicente Esteve
05/08/2014 at 22:25

No.

Vicente Esteve > Brian Silvestro
05/08/2014 at 22:28

the 3 people who recommended it disagree

Squid > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:29

A good majority of the NA and NB owners wouldn't mind letting you sit in one to get a feel for it. I'm only 6'1" and I fit in my NB with just a little bit of room to spare, but not anywhere near enough windshield to not have traffic lights not be blocked. I also only drive with the top up when it is really sunny and over 85 deg. F or raining. I don't like sun burns or sweating in the sun with out shade. The top goes down so you can go from no head room to infinite head room in about 5 seconds flat.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > Axial
05/08/2014 at 22:29

You understand where I'm coming from!

Plus you own a Corvette so bonus points.

PushToStart > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:29

You bring up a few decent points. I think that it's a matter of personal taste, and the qualities that many people like about the Miata just don't fall within your tastes, which is fine.

I disagree, but at least you have support to your argument and aren't just coming out saying "THIS CAR SUCKS AND YOU ARE ALL WRONG!"

Soloburrito > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:30

You aren't going to fit with a stock seat. maybe if the seat had a foamectomy but only just.

4 bolts will remove the seats. You'll fit for sure. Then you just need to source a fiberglass or aluminum shell.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > PushToStart
05/08/2014 at 22:31

I see people do that all the time with the Camaro, a car I personally really like, so if I'm going to say I don't like a car, I'm going to do it the right way and back up my opinion.

Nopriusneededbecausekinjaiscompletehorseshit > Brian Silvestro
05/08/2014 at 22:32

You need to make a brown volvo wagon life or something.

Axial > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:36

There's also fuel economy. When a four-cylinder car's EPA sticker is 1 or 2 MPG off of an iron-block, V8 powered dinosaur from 18+ years ago that has about 600 pounds on it, something is very, very wrong (before you look that up, know that the window sticker that actually came on the Corvette is something different than what you'll find online).

dogisbadob > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:36

I was referring to the nav getting outdated, not the 'tooth.

Yeah I get your point, but I was just trying to be a little funny that's all.

Maybe it is a bit of Mazda resting on their laurels, coupled with no more money from Ford now that they're independent, and the Miata is on its own platform shared with nothing else, and not a huge huge segment like say, compact or midsize FWD sedans. If they weren't still part of Ford when the NC first came out, there may have been no Miata at all.

Brian Silvestro > Vicente Esteve
05/08/2014 at 22:36

They did it because they were obligated.

Brian Silvestro > Nopriusneededbecausekinjaiscompletehorseshit
05/08/2014 at 22:37

I've made these:

http://gifsforum.com/gif_generator/…

Kinja'd!!!

EDIT: THERE IS NO GOD

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > Axial
05/08/2014 at 22:38

That's...shocking.

Axial > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:40

MazdaSpeed 3 is equally guilty.

It's why I hate 4-cylinder engines and/or small displacement in general. The attitude held by its most rabid proponents is generally foul and under-educated. They try to use the "tall gearing" excuse as if that somehow isn't a legitimate method for improving fuel economy while simultaneously dismissing all the advantages of low-end torque and greater power potential.

Tekamul > Squid
05/08/2014 at 22:40

Built in navigation is the Continental Kit of our generation. In 20 years, people will stare and point, and say "who that that was a good idea?"

The Compromiser > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:45

I make fun of guys I know with one. It's fun. I think it's fine for what it is and if I fit, I might even buy one one day. My wife says no however. I am not allowed to get a smaller car than my dd, in either engine or overall size. I dd a charger. I am left with 1) cruise ship, 2) tank, 3) Bro Truck.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > The Compromiser
05/08/2014 at 22:48

Challenger!

Squid > Tekamul
05/08/2014 at 22:49

Yup. I see no good reason for the built in Nav systems, Google Maps works just fine on my phone and I do better to not get lost by looking up my destination on a map before hand anyways. Roads change in developing areas and built in nav units need to be updated with new dvds and really its just a pain. You are better off not relying on GPS based nav systems so you have some idea of where you are going and where you are located. . . I think Nav systems have made people worse drivers because they listen to a machine and not what the road signs say.

MIATAAAA > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 22:56

More for meeee!!!

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > MIATAAAA
05/08/2014 at 22:57

All yours mate.

Nopriusneededbecausekinjaiscompletehorseshit > Brian Silvestro
05/08/2014 at 23:00

Nope I can't even log in now either so yay burner.

MIATAAAA > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 23:03

I have to duck a bit when the top is up.

Solution: top down.

Rain? Top down.

Snow? Top down.

Top. Down.

Avoid. Rollovers.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > MIATAAAA
05/08/2014 at 23:05

I prefer to stay dry and warm while driving my DD. Call me when neck warmers are offered.

The Compromiser > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 23:05

Yes its on the list. She wants it to be an RT. I want an SRT. Descisions descisions...

MIATAAAA > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 23:05

And, not to be nitpicky, but my NC came with Bluetooth from the factory.

Horrible Bluetooth, but Bluetooth nonetheless.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > The Compromiser
05/08/2014 at 23:07

The new 2015 comes with the 6.4 in non-SRT applications apparently. Tell her it's a standard issue R/T

MIATAAAA > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 23:07

Kinja'd!!!

What's your number??? :p

The Compromiser > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 23:11

she is too knowledgeable to sucker. She drove a beat cutlass sierra and did a lot of the work herself. He dream car is a 69 Camaro RS with the Z28 package.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > The Compromiser
05/08/2014 at 23:12

That's great and bad at the same time.

WE HAVE TO SAME DREAM CAR! Love me some 69. Innuendo completely intended.

wiffleballtony > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/08/2014 at 23:24

They don't ring my bell either.

XJDano > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/09/2014 at 00:06

I don't really have an opinion on this matter. I have never driven one or sat in the drivers seat. But the one joy ride along I did take for a couple miles in a turbo older one (not the first ones, see I don't even know the chassis codes) it was pretty sweet.

Although I'm short at 5'6" I for some reason love small cars and shitty ones too, like the metro I do drive. Maybe because I think that I can work most things by myself on 90's And earlier cars. 2000+ and I'm scratching my head.

I would like to own one to see what the fuss is about. But right now I'll stick with a hot hatch, or sub zero like what I drive. Also I'm cheap. And anything that replaces the metro would have to get similar mpg.

Svend > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/09/2014 at 03:34

If were being honest and open........................................ I don't like the MX5 either.

Its a nice car and all but if I wanted small two seater I'd go for an MGB rebuilt from the ground up and rewired with modern electrics.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > Svend
05/09/2014 at 06:26

This. So much this. Why pay upwards of 30k on one of these when you could get a really good kick ass restoration of a proper British classic for less.

Alex B > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/09/2014 at 09:42

That's why the miata is great! Nothing like Nav and bluetooth to lard it up!

mazdaspeed2 > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/09/2014 at 10:32

First, I respect your oppinion, but I think you are trying to turn the miata into something it isn't supposed to be. I love the miata because despite cars being all about comfort now, the miata doesn't make that a priority. I LIKE that it doesn't have bluetooth or Nav, or even more power. With its lack of power you can drive it pretty much at 10/10ths relatively legally on a lot of roads.

The size issue is a different story though, I'm 5'7" so I will never be too tall for anything haha. I believe that the target customer for the miata is someone who wants to go back to the days when you could get something that was just mechanical (I know the NC is not, which is a big reason why I don't like it as much.) It also isn't supposed to be a daily driver, I know people do but it is supposed to be a fun weekend car where you get in and leave your phone and everything at home and just go for a nice drive.

Again, not saying that you should like it, but I think most of your complaints are based on things that the miata was never supposed to be.

Plecostomus is a starred commenter > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/09/2014 at 12:06

What was that about a Fiesta? You trying to start something?

Note that my ST badges are a different color... with good cause. and yes they are OEM.

Kinja'd!!!

Hasty Pudding > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/09/2014 at 13:09

Let's be honest...the real reason is because...well, they are a girl's car. The only car less manly is a 90's VW cabriolet...

davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/10/2014 at 09:32

I drove a race-prepped NA last weekend. I'm 6'1" and barely fit. But I loved it! Definitely need something light and raw to go with my daily...

llamaguy > Logansteno: Bought a VW?
05/13/2014 at 10:24

Get out! Get out of this house!

Kinja'd!!!

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > llamaguy
05/13/2014 at 11:33

Make me!