2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club (6MT) - POV First Impressions (Binaural Audio)

Coating is SB3 Alpha! AutoLavish on instagram - / detroitdetailing
ENGINE & MECHANICS
SKYACTIV®1-G 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with VVT
Horsepower 155 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 148 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm
Redline 6800 rpm
Compression ratio 13:1
Fuel system Electronically controlled fuel injection
Recommended fuel Premium unleaded, 91 octane or greater
Minimum octane requirement (R+M/2) Regular unleaded, 87 octane or greater
Valvetrain Chain-driven dual overhead cams, 4 valves per cylinder with variable intake valve timing (VVT)
Ignition system Distributor-less ignition
Engine block Aluminum alloy
Cylinder head Aluminum alloy
Emission Control (50 State emissions) ULEV / Tier2-BIN5
EPA-ESTIMATED FUEL ECONOMY
Manual transmission (city/hwy/combined)2 : 26/33/29
DRIVETRAIN
Type Front-midship engine, rear-wheel drive
Manual transmission SKYACTIV®-MT 6-speed manual transmission with short-throw shifter
Automatic transmission 6-speed Sport automatic transmission with paddle shifters
GEAR RATIOS (:1) 6 MT
1st 5.087
2nd 2.991
3rd 2.035
4th 1.594
5th 1.286
6th 1.000
Reverse 4.696
Final drive 2.866
Limited-Slip Differential Torque-sensing limited-slip differential (MT only)
CHASSIS
Chassis Monocoque unibody with backbone frame construction and front and rear suspension subframes
Brakes 4-wheel disc
- Front 11-inch vented disc with single piston calipers
- Rear 11-inch solid disc with single piston calipers
- ABS 4-wheel, 4-channel with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Steering type Rack-and-pinion
Power assist Double pinion electric power assist (DP-EPAS)
Overall steering ratio 15.5:1
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock 2.7
Turning circle diameter, curb-to-curb (ft) 30.8
Suspension 4-wheel independent
- Front Double wishbone with aluminum control arms and monotube dampers
- Rear Multi-link with aluminum bearing support and monotube dampers
- Shock tower brace (front) (MT Only)
- Dampers Bilstein (MT only)
Wheel size (in) 17 x 7 aluminum alloy Dark Gunmetal finish
Tire size and type P205/45 R17 high-performance tires
WEIGHTS & CAPACITIES
Curb weight (lbs) 2,445 (MT)
Weight distribution % (front/rear) 50/50 (MT)
Fuel capacity (gallons) 11.89
PACKAGES & OPTIONS
Brembo/BBS Package (MT only)
- Brembo front brakes with red calipers, Mazda rear brakes with red calipers
- BBS forged 17" alloy wheels (Gunmetal finish)
- Aero kit: Side sill extensions, rear bumper skirt
- Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry
Soul Red Metallic Paint
-Filmed with the Sony FDRX3000 4K Action Camera amzn.to/2s53Bna
-Audio recorded with Roland CS-10EM Binaural Mics amzn.to/2qKRbwA
-Zoom H2n recorder amzn.to/2pQqVkq
Canon 5D MK IV amzn.to/2qeKl5l
Sigma 24-105mm f/4 Art amzn.to/2qeLXfD
A slightly outdated list of video equipment: kit.com/TheTopher
Don't support me on Patreon: / thetopher
Become unnecessarily jealous of me on Instagram: / thetopher2
I don't really see the point in a Facebook page but have one anyway: / thetopheryoutube
The audio in this video was recorded with in-ear binaural microphones. If you wear headphones, your mind won't be blown, but it will go, "woah."
I'm also the producer for the Winding Road KZbin Channel:
/ windingroadmagazine
Here on TheTopher, I'm known for putting a camera on my face and driving cars. Whether it's about any of my personal cars or reviews on weekly test vehicles, the goal is to give you an idea of what a certain car is like to drive or live with. Most of my videos are filmed in POV, with my clothes on, and (for like the 5th time) with in-ear binaural audio. Which, if I haven't made it clear yet, is why you should wear headphones. Because of the whole "woah" factor. It's there, trust me. Try it, you'll see! Or don't. As long as you whitelist me on your adblocker I'm okay with whatever you do or don't do with regards to headphone usage. That is all. Oh and I guess you should also probably subscribe. Why are you still reading this, you should be watching the video. With headphones! Hah, had to sneak that in there one more time. Later!

[@Theoldirtyb]

14:18 did the guy on the motorcycle say “little Miata boy” 😂

[@sharpshooter740]

100 percent he did

[@GavinVillarrubia]

😂😂

[@CapFlipGaming]

while riding a bitch bike none the less lmao!

[@TheTopher]

Thanks for 20k subs, you guys rock!

[@MRT3ABAG]

You deserve more mate! Pure quality content!

[@elijahedwards6050]

could you do a heel and toe tutorial?

[@svautomotive2583]

TheTopher Can u please upload a video of the new Toyota land cruiser v8

[@danmurphy1994]

I'm going to agree with MR3T by also saying you deserve more Chris! Your mom, like mine, has excellent taste in cars. This is one of the beautiful new colors for the Miata, probs my top 3. The Ceramic white and semi-gloss gray (with chestnut leather interior) are my other favorites xD. Keep it up Chris don't change anything. Hope you're having a great summer.

[@TheTopher]

Elijah Edwards everyone keeps asking 😂I'll see what I can do

[@carrototop15]

I love the RF. This is my first time to this channel and I really enjoyed your style. The POV with the ad-hoc narration was great.

[@cretek3957]

Your videos are top notch. You really convey to the viewers how the car performs and what it's like to drive, and just how passionate you are for vehicles. Quality content as always.

[@turbo311]

The way you are driving this MX5, the way it handles, clearly inspires confidence, and is fun at any speed is exactly why I plan to buy one. It's so much more tossable than my FiST.

[@JKyle-ii1mz]

You just taught me something about the ceramic coating. I didn't know that was a thing until this video. Your mom has a wonderful car.

[@12superaslan]

I wish I could tell my friends that my mom drives a red Miata 6-speed

[@Forshbr04]

Same dude. My mom’s is a 5-speed. What are you gonna do?

[@MC_CEHA]

The only car review channel i watch from beginning to end! I was here since 10k

[@randym195]

Love your POV videos! Have never considered this car before even though I drive a 2010 Mazda 3. Looks like so much fun!

[@carvlog7575]

i have an NB and i feel the same things as you in this video : smile, fun and engine noise (yours is a bit more loud of course!) This RF is my next car, i look forward to buy one

[@camroncordell7956]

Omgggggg I'm in love with this miata I love miata's they are beautiful

[@DriversSide]

Wow that detail is spot on! Great video!

[@mynaturefun]

The best binaural audio comes from the RF.

[@MatthewGaither]

Really enjoyable video. I daily drive a 2008 NC Miata and am someday looking forward to taking the ND for a spin. Thanks for doing this!

[@WizardTerence]

Great video ! Excellent commentary. This is the video potential buyers want to see .

[@MaslAlek]

American and manual? Nice! In Poland we have a joke: How you defend against car theft? Have a manual!

[@imnotsharingmyrealnameonth5601]

how manual defend against car theft?

[@petergriffin2399]

​@@imnotsharingmyrealnameonth5601 Look up: "Manual transmission thwarts attempt to steal car in Alabama"

[@gregblack4581]

Kids in US can not drive Manuel there for can’t steal it.

[@jayespi37]

Awesome video! The new clubs have those recaros, they look great as well

[@AceOfSpades678]

It's so odd seeing these videos since you basically drive on the same roads I do haha (I live in Novi). Nice review! That red looks gorgeous!

[@Spector2112]

AceOfSpades678 same here. His comment about no good backroads here in this area made me laugh cause its so true. Hines & 7 mile west are ok-ish, but speed limits kill them.

[@toy_86]

I felt the sounds like the LC500. Great sound!

[@SilentMind]

Channels really getting there topher. Cant wait to see you as a big name tuber. Deserve it witu the good reviews and amazing quality

[@Chippy0713]

He is now!

[@scaredypicker]

I'd have one in that colour and everything. The red looks so on point! Great video :D

[@lecoureurdesbois86]

Your mother drives manual? Respect!

[@TheTopher]

Forces de Libération du Québec always!

[@mob1235]

lol, this must be from an American

[@lecoureurdesbois86]

mob1235 not at allll

[@mob1235]

Ok Canada. But for Europe this is like "wow, your mother can use a microwave? Respect"

[@j0lel666]

mob1235 in finland literally everyone drives stick who wants to drive automatic wtf

[@miatarf4676]

Gotta do another review on this car like a winter driving POV in the RF

[@JusstinC]

love the videos. great quality

[@natecurrier]

Your vids are the best!!!

[@justinbrink7425]

Subscribed because you have a great attitude

[@DimoBoychev]

Been here since 3000 subs 🙂

[@tomokokishi3066]

Everyone s dream car.

[@chrismj4676]

Do you work for Mazda.. because your review (among a few others) prompted me to go test drive and now own a silver RF club. Best car I've ever driven.

[@vladislavbulgaru8400]

Chris MJ bro it’s his mom’s car

[@gregblack4581]

Did you find moms clock under the seat yet?

[@gregblack4581]

Sorry was trying to say glock

[@brandondannys-menary3678]

I love your videos. Subbed

[@PreciseVids]

You were the main driver who didn't talk on Winding Road right? I still watch Winding Road & I've just found your channel. I've been watching WR for years (probably since 2012). I would watch you drive cars because I couldn't drive yet (legally). You're a great driver btw (which inspired me to be the best I can be on the road) this is a great channel.

[@VuBeClan]

Same! Now i own a 2004 Miata red, which is absofuckinglutely fun to drive your self

[@newtypeJP]

ughhhh this video makes me want an rf now

[@tekkaboy80]

Finally!!

[@user-wf9yk8qe1r]

Great review. Great car. Now you have driven both ND RF and 2017 BRZ/86. Which do you like more? I have stock NC 2005. Sometimes I wish the car has less road and wind noise, more comfy on long commute, more comfortable seat and more leg room to stretch. Love to see if you could do head to head comparison video. Thanks

[@jazbuh1794]

T-Top what are your thoughts on the new mx5 RF vs the 17' AE86 you drove? Like in Comparison. of Driving, handling, acceleration, braking...? Which would you have a daily?

[@nathanhorvath]

I noticed you got the baby tuna on nice

[@lawrencel1964]

I love how far back the engine is I guess it helps with handling. One question how is the clothe seats is it cheap material?

[@StrictlyChosen]

Awesome

[@izmactavish]

You have an awesome mom...

[@moufnc]

thumb up for the tuna

[@usel-gc7jb]

mx5＝the best FR sport car ever.

[@alicebate6384]

Sergio Ramos I mean Ferrari F12 is FR but I know they're different classes.

[@starsaber2002]

@@alicebate6384 true but the Ferrari is more of a supercar than sportscar

[@3ducs]

Those roads are just sad. I love my ND Sport on twisty/hilly NH two lanes.

[@majjegaming5927]

Hopefully I can afford one of these at some point

[@s_for_siv]

Hines Drive is about the best "back road" you'll find around here!

[@Baklau007]

More Audi videos! Take the S4/S5 out, I'd kill to see your impressions at that rocket of a car.

[@DoSum4Me]

Hey dude! You should do a drive in a minivan like the Sienna or Pacifica would be sweet haha!

[@lok-manchiu7227]

How much did your mom pay for the RF with the Brembo sports package? I see that the hardtop seems to outsell the ST so there are very few rebates/incentives for the RF

[@rachetCD]

I just got my learners permit and i want this car so bad hahaha

[@mikeb9569]

Even the early ones were great (but get a manual and LSD), just stay away from the beaters.

[@root9065]

Your mom is more successful at life than I am haha :) nice Miata.

[@JoesGoldenGarage]

Tell me how is 6th gear at freeway speeds? Is the engine spinning pretty high?

[@Aurablade77]

Hey Chris, how is this car doing? Does your mom still have it and enjoying it

[@_J_U_S_T_I_N_]

I bet you if you tied this guys hands behind his back he wouldn't be able to speak. Haha I love it. Never seen someone talk so much while using their hands.

[@Flyguy6025]

I know this video is about the car, but what watch are you wearing?

[@yourmanzach2307]

A little over steer is fine

[@ratcon0229]

i hope he updated that ceramic coating

[@rontrinh4344]

How has the ceramic coating held up?

[@kevinnz617]

I'm debating between an RF and a ST, I've read that in the RF there is a lot of turbulent wind noise at speeds 50mph+. Have you experienced this?

[@robertreynolds2212]

strykR6718 I bought a soft top ND about 2 weeks ago. I’ve since returned it for the RF they have on display. The extra money is worth it, the hardtop is a lot safer & you don’t have to deal with sf maintenance, depending on how much you’re gonna drive it. Plus the rf makes it an all year car, winters aren’t unbearable. There is a bit of cabin noise above 60mph, but it’s noticeably quieter than the soft top.

[@richardramos141]

How much did the whole coating package cost??

[@victortugulan8730]

In my neck of the woods. How much was that coat job?

[@larney37]

ND Miata or Factory Five Cobra?

[@Mr1wd]

Are the Bilstein shocks too much on Michigan roads?

[@fhowland]

Charlie not at all it rides great! Smoother than my civic si!

[@rampagedingo]

Your mom has a nice car, but for some reason I still prefer the lighter soft-top miatas

[@tonycornea6945]

What's the Best color for RF . ?. The soul Red or the Mettalic Grey. ?

[@TheeeDanielR]

Tony Cornea black , red and grey!

[@NicWir]

I like the soul red 😁

[@elaxel1469]

IMO the suspension is very stiff in the city with speed bumps.

[@segers887]

Its still loud like the old ones like that

[@LycheeWasHere]

2017 Toyota Chr?

[@joshtib069]

That intro tho lol

[@shellcasing1040]

Is it drivable in Michigan winter?

[@acchaladka]

No but I know a few people who daily it in Canadian winter....

[@hansollee2144]

You sound like Christian Bale in his character Patrick Bateman of American Psycho.

[@iKrave1]

Hansol Lee I feel it

[@matlikesgaming9652]

House/garage tour?

[@babyyoda1462]

i dont like the big antena on it... still a nice car!

[@thomaschan2539]

Do you think 6'1 foot can fit nicely?

[@jo23bulls]

Yes you can

[@ZDY66666]

what does a ceremic coat do?

[@anamericanhero278]

ZDY Keeps the car clean and shiny!!

[@ZDY66666]

An American Hero you know if it's any good for rock chip protection? Been trying to find something to protect my GTS that isn't a wrap.

[@UltraSonic73]

Quick question: How tall are you? :)

[@TheTopher]

Florian Kawala 5'10" I fit perfectly. You could probably be comfortable up to 6ft, beyond that would be doable, but a little tight.

[@gregblack4581]

I’m 5,11 and 230 lbs and I fit fine. Don’t have the recaros.

[@louielambretta389]

No hate against your mum, but im curious as to why she bought a miata

[@MDSagor-tc2dg]

My crush.

[@DrivesPH]

Rf or wrx sti

[@anamericanhero278]

Matthew Tan Both!! :)

[@aznsnoopyapbt430]

Seriously?! Lmfao

[@milesfathi]

So this or BRZ?

[@kaskoosek]

milesfathi I sold my gt86. I think this is the only other option. My only complaint about the gt86 is that it is unrefined. The body work and paint is shit, and the cricket noise is irritating. Otherwise best driving car ever.

[@MetalsForBrunch]

milesfathi go for honda s2000. Japanese dont make sportscars anymore.

[@turbo311]

milesfathi I was giving the new updated 86/BRZ serious consideration. I like the new shared 4:3 rear and the performance package on the BRZ. The practicality is better also, and the comfort in terms of interior space. But the MX5 is more fun and a more precisely engineered car for its purpose. Consider this, if nothing else, that everyone still complains the 86/BRZ is underpowered, but nearly no one says that of the MX5.

[@fredd164]

If you're worried about the power of the GT86, get a UEL header and Flex-fuel tune setup. I think it really gives the car the umph it needed. It takes away the majority of the torque dip - i don't notice it anymore.

[@user-li1mj1jx2j]

Wait for the Supra.

[@Victrix_45e]

9:25 voice crack

[@High_Desert_Tanner]

It IS quicker than your BRZ... both claimed specs and testing have shown this.

[@inspectorchicken]

If you're comparing 0-60 numbers or lap times done by race drivers you did not understand the BRZ or the MX-5. Just buy a GTI or whatever FWD Turbobox you can afford and have your numbers laid out in your favorite bar talk.

[@MichaelM.9]

6:55 did you really drove over a red light? o.O

[@iamtheAtomicPenguin]

That's how it should be IMO. Here in Poland you sometimes have small green arrows which light up whenever you are allowed to make a turn AFTER coming to a halt (it's still a red light) and checking for any traffic.

[@thehollowlingwin]

d0z3rr Unless there's a sign that says no turn on red 😅

[@aznsnoopyapbt430]

Bit iffy the way you steer man hands all over the place when you take a corner quicky lol

[@ricohcrap]

Your mom is super cool hhh

[@Fazil.444]

Can you do a BMW video

[@xbox3221]

Audi is better!!!! :D

[@ILithuaniaI]

get out with ur audi

[@xbox3221]

Are u Jealous becouse audi is a better car?

[@ILithuaniaI]

Jealous of what lmao? Because some twink said it on the internet its supposed to be better? :)

[@NicWir]

Koenigsegg is better then both together

[@inspectorchicken]

well just avoid "mom" and "pov" in your next video title lol

[@NicWir]

Why? When it is the car from his mom?

[@mistere599]

Yes I love deez

[@goons123flofy]

Heel and toe? Can't I just get a dual clutch?

[@jts400hp]

Is your mom single??? Any pics?

[@harrybarry7722]

Ok I come here to tell you how this car is basically nothing..except a Mazda. But it's kinda cool ( coming from a guy that drives German engineering vehicle )

[@jolkraeremeark6949]

Japanese engineering is far superior.

[@sporkeh90]

Lol the way you Americans drive a manual is laughable, you depress the clutch or use neutral so much. There is no reason to do that.

[@cloudhidden1196]

Julian R how do you use a manual without depressing the clutch?

[@blammod]

you replace your clutch often do you?

[@mikeb9569]

@@blammod I lost all my clutch fluid once through a pinhole in the hydraulic line in my NB. I was in motion, so I just changed gears by rev matching (speed shifting). However, you do need a clutch if you're stopped, unless you're facing downhill.

[@alextran8188]

Used BMW 2 Series > Brand new miata

[@steelheart4148]

Any used BMW requires lots and lots and lots of money to maintain. Miata's are low maintenance.

[@Ryeric1]

Skipping gears... Synchronizers, you may rest in peace.

[@natebarry5553]

Ryeric1 Research rev matching

[@Ryeric1]

I do know what rev matching is, but that only affects the engine (engine speed, or RPM) and the clutch, allowing a smooth connection between the engine and the clutch when done properly, which reduces wear on the clutch compared to downshifting without rev matching. The synchros will still wear on a downshift, rev match or not, unless you double clutch, which is why skipping gears will take a harder hit than sequentially downshifting because the difference in speed is greater, thus more work for the synchros. For example, going from 6th gear to 5th gear is a smaller difference than 6th to 3rd, which means less wear if you were to sequentially downshift, and more wear if you skip gears since the difference in speed is greater. If you don't think so, I can refer to you 2 links that cover this topic on double clutching, downshifting, rev matching, and wear and tear on clutches and synchros.

[@magneto8002]

Cute chick car just not enough power.