Mazda knew when they unveiled the Miata at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show that they had built a true driver’s car, one whose stated purpose was to create joy. That was 25 years ago today. What they couldn’t have known was that it would become the best selling sports car of all time. Soon the likes of Toyota, Nissan, Honda, BMW, Mercedes and Audi all tried to emulate the formula, but it was only Mazda that sold 1 million drop top smile generators to loving owners all over the globe. Today it officially becomes nostalgic.
To mark the momentous occasion, Mazda released a website and short movie in Japan. In the video, Miata program manager Nobuhiro Yamamoto speaks to the intent behind the original, revealing just how much heart was poured into the project. And when Yamamoto-san talks about a car “that makes everyone feel joy and happiness” or “animates life and becomes an irreplaceable partner” you know he really means it because the car is that good. Watch the video and if it doesn’t make you want to buy a Miata — and the brilliant thing about it is, anyone can afford it — you are probably dead inside.
I was really hoping the ND Miata would be unveiled in Chicago this year; that’d be such an awesome 25th anniversary gift! Can’t wait to see it, hopefully in a few months. The NA, though, remains something quite special. A true classic. I’ve wanted one for years, one with a hardtop.
The original Miata was called the “EUNOS” in Japan, as in Number One.
Recently “fired” talk-show host Jay Leno also did his own (more in-depth) tribute to the Miata.
Happy Birthday MX-5 !!
I’ve loved ’em since high school, a place and time where admitting as much would get you flagged as a homo faster than would rollerskating to school with Aqua blasting out of your headphones. There is really only one reason I don’t have one, and its because it seems too similar to an AE86, which I am very faithful to. Why get into Miatas if you already have a supremely fun-to-drive RWD 1.6L? Is there any reason for someone with an AE86 to get a miata, or vice versa, besides looks and the convertible aspect? I hope somebody can answer this.
It’s weight balance and handling is probably better; other than that, I can’t think of any.
The convertible aspect is a pretty substantial difference, especially if you mean “open two-seat sports car” and not just the folding top itself. The feel, the sound, the whole experience is transformative, especially in a car that performs as honestly as the Miata (and by “honestly” I mean you can feel every bit of its modest torque reaching the rear wheels, you know when you’re reaching its cornering limit, and it’s the kind of car that makes one a better, more tuned-in driver).
While the AE86 has similar qualities, enjoying them from the low, snug, two-seat cockpit of an open roadster is just different — and glorious. I’d think you’d enjoy having both an NA Miata and your AE86, and would find them complementary but not at all redundant.
miata has a better suspension setup, double-wishbone at all 4 corners. it’s an objectively better design than the corolla’s front McPherson/rear 4 link live axle.
the corolla body might be more rigid due to the fact that it isn’t a convertible, but this is somewhat mitigated in the miata by the PPF that links the driveline components.
one was designed from the ground up to be a sports car and has been campaigned very successfully in various club level racing series with little in the way of modification. the other was a sporty trim level that included uprated drivetrain and suspension components in what is basically an economical commuter package.
of course, the point becomes moot when you start throwing modifications at either platform. then it all comes down to your preference.
To protect the AE86?
Get the Corolla all polished up for cruises and when you want to cut out for a bit, but use the Miata for most Summer driving.
Boss being (more of) a jerk today? There are fewer things that will restore your mood than opening up and hitting the road, EVEN IF it’s just a 20 minute trip home. Take the long way; make it an hour. Swing by the city’s “overlook,” cruise through slowly and get readjusted.
Break up with the girlfriend? Reset the radio stations to what YOU like, lose the roof, and just go cruising.
Night trip out on the country roads!
Hey – I could swear I saw one on the Weather Channel, when they were showing Atlanta, a couple of weeks ago. Who knew they’d be drivable in snow and ice? (You know – the conditions you REALLY don’t want to take your “baby” out in.)
Thanks for the replies everyone
Yes it is a fantastic little sportscar 😉 if Mazda would build a version with the 13B REW rotary, it would be a BLAST !!!
The Miata is and has always been the answer! Happy Birthday!