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9
PERFORMANCE | 9 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
For some, it embodies the essence of what driving enjoyment is all about.
Consumer Reports
Some strange combination of open top, high exhaust note, and sport suspension made the car feel a lot faster than its instruments indicated.
CNET
Few cars offer as much everyday driving fun as the Miata, and even fewer do it as inexpensively.
Cars.com
The car is not slow, but slow enough that you can drive it flat out absolutely everywhere.
Car and Driver
the 2.0-liter four-banger is as rev-happy as ever (and sounds good, too)
Motor Trend
Powered by a revvy 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, rated at 167 horsepower, the MX-5 isn't exactly quick, but it gathers speed well thanks to short gearing, particularly in six-speed models. Five-speed cars have slightly longer gearing down low, but settle in well at freeway speeds. Zero to 60 mph times vary by the trim and soft or hard top choice, but the range gets to 60 mph in about seven seconds.
Nearly ideal 50/50 front-rear weight distribution makes handling predictable out of the box, and the quick, accurate steering is well-weighted. Go-kart-like is the most common epithet for the MX-5's low-speed handling, and at high speeds, such as those seen on track, the MX-5 is poised.
Somewhat soft springs and relatively tall aspect-ratio tires make for a comfortable ride, but also induce more body roll than you might expect out of a sub-2,600-pound car.
A six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option on higher-end models, outfitted with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. The light clutches, short, precise lever throws, and sheer involvement of the manual transmissions make them the choice of our editors, however, enhancing the experience of open-top motoring in a roadster like the MX-5.
Conclusion
True sports car handling, adequate power for its weight, and a classic roadster experience make the 2012 Mazda MX-5 unique.
