At this year's Chicago Auto Show in February, Mazda took the wraps off of a Special Edition. Built in limited volume (750 units), this special Miata commemorates the production of 900,000 MX-5 Miatas since 1990. Two unique colors, and built in Grand Touring spec, the Special Edition will only be available with the Miata's Power Retractable Hardtop. Beyond this, there are no changes to the MX-5 in the 2011 model year.
In its 22nd year of production, Mazda's MX-5 Miata has firmly established itself among the iconic sports cars of all time. For each successive decade after World War II there have been one or two sports cars that spoke to a specific generation. In the '40s it was MG's TC, and in the '50s Corvette and Healey. Beginning with its 1990 introduction it has effectively been the MX-5, especially in the affordable sports car segment. And while refinements - and additional safety upgrades - have been added, the recipe remains essentially the same: A modestly responsive four-cylinder engine, precise manual transmission, a well dampened, fully independent suspension, and minimalistic bodywork. The package has excited one generation, and is now exciting the newly licensed children of its first ownership group. The MX-5 hasn't lost its way, and America hasn't lost its affection for it.
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why ads?By Open-Air Aficionado (San Antonio, TX) on Monday, April 28, 2008
overall rating 5 of 5rating details
"I have a 2006 Miata that I bought new... It is a great little sports car, reliable and fun. It has not broken down once since I have owned it, and I have done nothing but scheduled maintenance. The handling is precise, it has plenty of power for a car its size, and throwing down the top can literally be done with one arm in 5 seconds at a stop light. The trunk is big enough to hold duffel bags for a weekend trip, and the keyless entry system has me so spoiled that I get irritated when I have to pull out a key to drive my wife's car. It even comes with a special set of "in between" vents between the normal AC vents and the floor vents that are strategically located below the turbulent airflow in the upper part of the cabin, allowing you to stay warm when the top is down on a chilly night. Nicely designed and solidly constructed. I gave 4 stars for performance out of fairness to cars like the Boxster, and only 4 on comfort since drivers over 6'1'' or so would likely feel a bit cramped and the suspension is tuned more for performance than soft ride. Overall, though, I highly recommend the Miata to those looking for an old school sports car feel without the attendant reliability problems or rough edges."
12 people out of 12 found this review helpful
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By nevada bob (Nevada) on Thursday, November 01, 2007
overall rating 5 of 5rating details
"This is my second MX5 and what an improved machine it is. Much better performance, handling and comfort. I am even getting better gas mileage than my 1990 model. I have yet to get less than 30 mpg no matter how hard I drive this car. Even got in the mid 40's during a slow tour of Yellowstone last summer. The optional suspension package makes this car handle like a go cart on crooked roads. I live in the Sierras where there are great mountain roads to explore. This is a great car for that. Expect a lot of attention when you drive a MX5, and I am in my 60's. Terrific car, I love it!"
5 people out of 5 found this review helpful
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By frank (new jersey) on Wednesday, April 28, 2010
overall rating 5 of 5rating details
"I could not afford a boxter so I gave the car a look and I love the car. It satisfied my need for an inexpensive, good looking, good gas mileage sports car. It is our toy. The engine performance is ok, could have used a little more muscle though to compete with the big boys. But all things considered, it is a beauty."
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful
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