Mazda Miata vs. Honda S2000 vs. Subaru BRZ - POV Comparison

[@TheTopher]

Specs & Modifications on all three cars: 2018 Subaru BRZ Limited Modifications: TRD Intake, full-catted exhaust w/unequal length header, Open Flash Tablet 91-octane tune, 17x8 Enkei PF01 wheels Horsepower: 205 hp Curb weight: 2,789 lbs Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder Boxer MPG: 21 city / 29 highway Tire size: P215/45R17 Transmission: 6-speed manual Dimensions: 167″ L x 70″ W x 51″ H 2003 Honda S2000 Modifications: K&N FIPK intake, Apex'i dual exhaust, Bilstein PSS coilovers, wider wheels Horsepower: 240 hp Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder Curb weight: 2,810 lbs MPG: 20 city / 26 highway Wheel size: Front 16″ diameter, 6.5″ width; rear 16″ diameter, 7.5″ width Tire size: Front: P205/55R16, rear: P225/50R16 Torque: 153 lb-ft 2021 Mazda MX‑5 Miata RF Grand Touring Manual Modifications: Stock MSRP: $34,525 MPG: 26 city / 34 highway Horsepower: 181 hp @ 7,000 rpm Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder Curb weight: 2,452 lbs Transmission: 6-speed manual Dimensions: 154″ L x 68″ W x 49″ H

[@corey31]

It looks like you listed OEM wheel specs for the S2000, but these look to be 17” or 18” and at least 1/2” wider front/rear. Either way, I am now thinking I’ll need an intake to go along with my exhaust that’s on order!

[@mikecompagnoni]

@@corey31 ASA FR1 - 17x8/17x9, not sure they're in production any more.

[@corey31]

@@kontai6997 funny you ask this. I was in between buying the S2000 or going the ND route since prices are starting to get very close with the appreciating Honda. Once you do the math you’re spending so much just to get the ND to stock S2000 levels and even then you have an inferior interior and exterior design in my eyes. On top of that, I felt the Honda’s shifter and engine just have a much more unique/exotic feel. I still believe that the next step up from the S is a newer Porsche Cayman/Boxster, or, in other words $10-$20k more in the used market.

[@arshadpervaz2463]

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[@arshadpervaz2463]

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[@liveleak2jz323]

The fact that 20 yr old car is up there and performing better than those other cars speaks to the masterpiece that is the s2000

[@jamiefisher1430]

Not a fair comparison when the Honda S2000 costed at least 15k more than the Mazda Miata from the same era. S2000 costed more towards the Porsche 986/987 Boxster, so if Honda made the S2000 in 2021, it would cost at least 50k so it BETTER be objectively superior

[@vitreoushumor]

Also keep in mind the Miata will wreck far better with updated safety and side airbags

[@heikopanzlaff3789]

@@vitreoushumor Have a 2016 ND 2.0 with only 160 HP that would give any S2000 and a few others a hard day on a twisted road so I am not so shure about this performing better- thing ...

[@vitreoushumor]

@@heikopanzlaff3789 ND2 here, 2021, and I've driven some of the others. The Mazda is still my pick over the others.

[@vossler360]

Performance wise, the ND2 is pretty comparable to the AP1 by most straight line measures. Both have similar times to 60 (5.7 to 5.8 s), although the AP1 is faster in the quarter mile (14.2 @ 98) compared to ND2 (14.4 @ 96). Top speeds are similar. As for lap times, MT measured a faster time around Laguna Seca in an ND2 than an AP2 (1:48.5 to 1.50:7).

[@Trance88]

I'm looking at that Honda S2000 and I'm like. It's a freakin' 20+ year old design and it fits right in with the other two late 10's era cars.

[@Wizardnil]

Facts

[@MajorAddiction]

and still one of the coolest tachs to date

[@robertrishel3685]

That goes both ways; the reason I think I still love my FRS is because it reminds of a 90’s car when I drive it (gave up and pulled the anti-lock fuse to disable all the “help”). They’re cars that are simple, light and well balanced....it’s all I want. Given an unlimited budget, I would be thrashing around a 964 era 911, but since they have become stupidly expensive, the driving experience from my very raw FRS suffices.

[@dasppg9737]

@@robertrishel3685 they’re simple till you lose your keys. Then they get very very complicated and expensive.

[@SashaM0915]

Look at a FD rx7 and it’s the same

[@iantaylor4294]

I really hope these sub 300hp RWD manual cars continue to sell well, so that the beancounters at Toyota, Mazda and Subaru can allow these engineers to continue developing these enthusiasts cars. I also hope Mazda brings a production version of their 'RX-vision' concept car - whether it be a rotary engine or their upcoming straight six 3 litre engine. It would've been great if Mazda produced a proper coupe version of the MX-5 ND too - as a trackday junkie, I would appreciate the structural rigidity, aerodynamics, NVH and possibly more storage space from an already appealing looking lightweight car.

[@ogmechsftw]

mazdaspeed miata coupe pls it will cost 50k though lol

[@iantaylor4294]

@@ogmechsftw I'd happily pay 50k tbh! If it improves the torsional rigidity and aerodynamics, I'm all for it :D

[@matt25675]

@@ogmechsftw and it would be worth every penny

[@DragonKnightX12]

@@ogmechsftw Just stiffen up the Miata and shove the 2.5T Turbo in there with different tuning. Boom, new Mazdaspeed MX-5.

[@iantaylor4294]

@Sideways Singh 'u cant tell the difference when u drive them.' - wrong. That means you're not driving hard enough to tell those differences at the limit. Only exceptions apply to expensive supercar convertibles with carbon fibre tubs like McLarens and Aventador Spyder.

[@kurtglover3648]

Another thing that should be noted hugely in favour of the MX-5 and S2000 is that their suspension setups are far more advanced and allow for full adjustment (caster, camber, toe), whereas the BRZ can only do toe without modification. I play around with my ND's alignment specs pretty frequently, and a few degrees here and there can make it feel like a completely different car. With a small helping of camber, it absolutely eats corners

[@curtfox91]

Cant wait to get a ND2

[@wayward03]

Yeah but the Miata is much too soft, rolls like a pig until it hits stops and then moves the whole car. Also the BRZ has significantly more practical space than either car.

[@kurtglover3648]

@@wayward03 agree out of the box it's definitely tuned to be a more flamboyant ride on the street, but if you want to track competitively all it takes is some stiffer sways or springs (which lets be real, you'd probably end up modifying on any of the cars here)

[@isaiahking793]

Some BC racing coilovers for the BRZ is will fix all those issues. And the flat 4 sounds many many many many many many times better than the I4. S2K is the best out of all of them, but its 35K.

[@kurtglover3648]

@@isaiahking793 coil overs with a camber plate will give you a small ability to adjust static camber on a McPherson setup, but the double wishbones upfront on both the S2K and MX5 are just inherently more sophisticated. In general it's very difficult to get a good camber curve on a McPherson strut car, whereas double wishbone geometry will naturally increase negative camber under compression (the former can actually go into POSITIVE camber under compression). Definitely doesn't mean you can't make a good handling car without double wishbone (as both the BRZ and Porsche have proven), but anything the BRZ can do the MX5 and S2k can do better

[@jdd3993]

I currently own a BRZ, formerly a lifetime Miata owner (every generation, ND1 soft-top most recently) and I have only driven an S2000 once... I cannot disagree with any of your assessments but getting them all together in this format was just wonderful on headphones... cheers.

[@tommymello1693]

what caused you to switch and stay with the BRZ? currently driving an auto 86 but i would like to go over to an ND soft top in manual.

[@jdd3993]

@@tommymello1693 I like to road-trip my cars, and the Miata is just too cramped for longer journeys, even for someone my size (5'7" 140lbs). I really always wanted Mazda to make a fixed top coupe like the M-Coupe concept. I think that Subaru/Toyota really did everything I wished Mazda had done. I purchased mine used but very low mileage and have built it out more unconventionally: I did some strategic sound deadening, added a nearly full suite of Cusco body braces, the leather dash panel, and the loudest TRD sound generator (who doesn't love some intake honk?) and made my personal touring car. It is totally stock looking outside.

[@patrickcampbell28]

The AP1 is a nearly perfect car. I sold my first one and bought another a year later. Not making that mistake again!

[@PuReGhOsTT]

I just got a ap1 that looks exactly like your profile picture and it's my second car and my first manual and it's so much fun. I don't see it leaving anytime soon

[@LawrenceZhou-r2m]

I used to own a ap1, I agree its a nearly perfect car but mine burns a lot of oil and the ap1 has absolute no low rpm torque lol. For me I like ap2 better.

[@concacnay]

yeah buddy

[@matt25675]

@@LawrenceZhou-r2m you should get that checked, it shouldn’t be burning oil

[@TheSpread1]

Curse you, I have a nice one and I've thought about selling it. You're probably right. I have an M2comp that makes it feel slow, so I've thought about selling it for a 997.2. Thoughts?

[@elestromusicgamesfun1101]

Selling my S2k is the worst thing I ever did.

[@saulsantos3653]

What’s the reason that you sold it?

[@Cheems09]

I want one so bad

[@elestromusicgamesfun1101]

@@saulsantos3653 - Student loans and I had just met my wife then, so we were starting up our life together. It was the right call then, but man, I still regret it. Awesome car.

[@hungrymotherfather]

Don’t worry, I made the same mistake and I regret it everyday 🥲

[@LawrenceZhou-r2m]

Same, it makes me even more regret it when I see the s2k price now.

[@joetaka7620]

Before the Government in UK + Japan bans new cars sales with ICEs by 2030, I really hope people appreciate and thank Toyota/Subaru + Mazda for building lightweight RWD manual cars at a relatively attainable price range. In the UK, these sorts of cars aren't as popular as the German hot hatchbacks with AWD and turbocharged engines - and I find it a shame that these 86/BRZ/MX-5s never really get the respect that they deserve, all because most people seem to care about straight line acceleration for that instant gratification, rather than learning the basic fundamentals of RWD driving techniques.

[@itheus]

They get plenty of respect up in the northeast :)

[@HasnaneArain]

Proud ND owner from London!

[@typerftw9476]

They get a lot of respect From my generation “teenagers”

[@TassieLorenzo]

Cars made in Japan have a 10% import tariff in the UK/Europe which doesn't help matters (nor the road tax based on CO2). In Australia, the Toyota 86 was originally a $29,000AUD (15,000GBP) car which helped sales a lot. :)

[@DumStrung]

I have a BRZ and here I am watching a BRZ video even though I could just go drive it. As weird as it is I guess it's a testament to how much I love this car.

[@gpuhog6208]

Love the s2000 video. This gets me hyped to drive mine this weekend. I'm glad I kept mine through all those years even when I didn't have a nice garage parking for the s2k and drifted around from apartments and condos. And now, I feel lucky to have my s2k parked in a proper garage. Never letting go of this one.

[@StevenMI89]

God the sound of the s2000 😍

[@pinakmiku4999]

S2000 is Honda’s supreme engineering! Getting very expensive now as its aging gracefully

[@smilepermile8165]

Honestly would happily watch this video of you talking about these lightweight RWD manual cars, even if it was 5 hrs long! I saw your instagram post on the GR 86 so I'm excited to hear how that new car compares to these trio of cars.

[@chinoskateboardv]

As an owner of an AP1 S2000; here’s my take on which car I would buy given my own scenarios. S2000: I have another daily and the S2000 is a weekend car (Drive it once a week or once every two weeks) Miata: I want a s2000 like feel but I want that luxury/newness feel (I have a daily driver but this will be the car I drive 3 or 4 days out of the week depending on how I feel) BRZ: this is my only car I have and I want a sports car that I can comfortably drive and easily modify to make it look clean.

[@SitnClutch]

I daily drove my S2000 for nearly 7 years, until I bought a TLX as a daily driver. It’s hard to beat that feeling going from my TLX to the S2000 and just enjoying it for the car it is. It’s a modern classic that I won’t ever sell.

[@turtleindustries5134]

Wow Daily for 7 years that’s inspiring

[@fap9589]

Thank you for your reviews, they helped me getting the nd2 three weeks ago. The car is super fun to drive and is great for covering long distances also. Only downside is that the cabin and trunk space are tiny, but they pose no problems to me. Made me a Miata fan for life, I think I'm going to keep getting the newer iterations until I can't drive no more. I hope they keep making them for a long time

[@Eman-lj7eq]

I agree with picking the s2k. My grandma has one and it’s so fun to ride with her. It’s pretty fast and it’s reliable because it’s a Honda.

[@jasonyee6533]

That 48 mins flew by! What a great video…awesome job as always topher!! Btw the 6/5/4/3/2 downshifts at the end of the BRZ segment sounded heavenly!

[@Kiloechonovember1]

I've had my S2000 for over ten years. Out of my cold dead hands...

[@Josh-js3uw]

how many miles? going to buy one with around 170k, anything i should be worried about?

[@ItsChris2k]

@@Josh-js3uw find out if the fluids have been routinely changed. Also if its an ap1 u might want to swap the retainers and get a valve adjustment just to be safe. Now if its a 2002 or before ap1 you should look into swapping the banjo bolt. Those are the main concerns regarding s2000s besides things like rips in the soft top

[@Josh-js3uw]

@@ItsChris2k never heard of a banjo bolt before whats that?

[@Nizheadgaming]

Bought an abandoned s2k with over 320,000kms. Started it the first time after years and it blew yellow smoke for a bit and was good. I drove it hard every day and it never gave me issues, ran like new

[@HigeYatsu]

I feel like the comparison isn't all that fair for a stock MX-5 against the two modified cars, especially in terms of feel. Coilovers, alignment, wheels, tires, and exhaust go a long way for that little car. Hopefully you can get all three on a road again, all 3 with comparable mods, or all three bone stock--would be interesting to see if it changed your opinion at all.

[@chinoskateboardv]

Bone stock comparison I would have to hand it to the Mazda Miata. It’s literally the S2000 mixed with the BRZ. Newest model plus newest technology which equals it to being far more superior.

[@MultiSneakerLover]

He was definitely on something strong when he thought this was a good idea

[@JohnSmith-cj8rz]

Exactly, I hate it when it's not a pure-stock comparo....why bother? I'm sure someone could mod up a, say, Honda, to beat some Ferrari. Makes no sense and kinda wastes time.

[@Mr1wd]

What an awesome video to start my Friday!

[@judge831]

I've driven all three and now own a 2018 MX-5 Club soft top. It has the most torque per pound of the three and the most high end feeling interior. I'm 6 foot btw. It does feel a bit tight, but not uncomfortable. I drove 12 hours straight in it.

[@XoVoX]

The Brembo/BBS/Recaro Package on a Club is hard to beat. Nothing new comes close to it at the price point. The extra back support versus the stock seats is worth it alone.

[@TonyKimtheamusementparkfan]

The classic that is the Honda S2000~ One of the best cars Honda has made, for sure~

[@robertrishel3685]

Well done👍 I’m still totally in love with my 2013 FRS. I just can’t help it. It’s become “the beater”. It’s paid off, has a few minor bumps and bruises, but is 100% mechanically sound. I have a set of coilovers at roughly OEM ride height and OEM spring rates, a lighter flywheel, steel brake lines and better pads, fluids, etc. and a Nameless exhaust delete. The car is is perfect to me. I beat it to death every time I get in it and it is nearly always my first choice when I need to drive (my choices are a type R, mk6 GTI or my sons Challenger).

[@pinch-of-salt]

The S2000 and MX-5 are great but GT86/BRZ are proper foundations to build and enhance your skills as a driver and mechanic.

[@Blackdawn80]

The S2K is is such a special vehicle. It comes from an automotive era that will never happen again. You can keep your EV's and race them from stop light to stop light, no interest here.

[@BN99239]

Okay will do.

[@nates3080]

Just because the S2000 is a special vehicle doesn’t mean that EV’s can’t be special too. You can appreciate both.

[@Blackdawn80]

@@nates3080 When I was a kid I had a red Power Wheel Jeep, then I got older and I had a slot car set with the trigger accelerators. Now as an adult, I have no interest in electric cars because I learned that waiting for a full battery to charge sucks, and if a car is too powerful it falls off the track...Think about it. Nothing special about an EV.

[@nates3080]

@@Blackdawn80 that’s a very narrow-minded way to look at cars. A real car enthusiast appreciates them in all forms.

[@emmanuelperrina6105]

@@nates3080 i appreciate ev for eco city vehicle, no interest in ev pathetic performance and war of horsepower

[@liamencabo868]

It’s good to see you back in the BRZ for a brief moment!

[@ruinedmedia3053]

Im 19, about to turn 20, 6’1-ish, and a full time college student. I was between these 3 cars and chose a 2020 brz as my first car, and I don’t regret my choice. It’s comfortable for my size, and it drives great. Sure it’s painfully slow, but that helps keep me from wanting to drive reckless, and it is the right amount of practicality for what I need. My only regret is not getting the performance package, but I can always upgrade later on. Plus brembos are more expensive to maintain. My poor clutch was very forgiving in the first month of owning it, and the time after getting use to it has been extremely rewarding. Anyways, I just wanted to voice my satisfaction with the car, and how I strongly agree with just about everything this video stated about it.

[@williamlong2682]

Topher Fridays!😍 Been biking down my local auto row a lot recently and I was talking Miatas with the Mazda sales manager and he was so nice he even gave me his card and offered me a test drive! What a homie lol. Think I’ll have to take that up pretty soon here.

[@fearlessknight1343]

Seen a few Honda S2000's in my area. Always brings a smile! Likely be going with the new 2022 BRZ as my first ever sport/manual :) Excited.

[@Jake-im2lv]

That brz is how 4 cylinder modified exhausts should sound like. No pops or bangs or raspy fart or trumpet sounds.

[@TurtlesandStuff.]

9:03 Dude runs the light and almost gets t-boned by the Porsche

[@ValentineC137]

lmao

[@ravesilly]

"Now I've matured and bought a Subaru" This is the first time I've heard "mature" and "Subaru" used in the same sentence

[@adamb3129]

You need to get another BRZ! Maybe the refresh. You’re always so passionate about them in the videos.

[@megaxboxx]

cringe, the "new" one is literally the same car with new bodysheet, cars underpowered garbage for 17 years olds, its basically a camry.... nah nvm the v6 camry destroys this "sports" car LOL

[@michaelwakim2198]

@@megaxboxx somehow every word in that sentence was wrong lol

[@adamb3129]

@@megaxboxx Then buy a Camry and be happy! Nothing cringe about my comment, but yours is!

[@juniorgarcia4744]

@@megaxboxx hmm hmmm hmmm sounds like you're a bit butt hurt about something ?

[@carbrickscity]

Miata for me. Lightest, convertible, still available for sale.

[@CanisLupus_666]

Have driven all 3 cars. 1. S2k 2. MX-5 3. BRZ … not driven the new BRZ/GR86 yet… but there‘s something glorious about being able to drive topless…

[@kuanchuen6647]

you are just perfect, honestly I watched without skip. Your vid have so much of info and the view of your cam is epic

[@johnm5131]

hits the nail on the head with many of the RF comments. The first one was spot-on: "you either have leg comfort or back comfort". It is my only disappointment with the car. You can't get comfy!

[@silentvalue]

I stopped the vid after the s2000 segment. Had an ap1 with ap2 gearing, and bolt ons for 7 years as my daily. I traded it in for a new mk7 GTI, which is still the nicest car i've ever had, but it's just not the same. I'm glad i was able to truly experience that machine. It's such a pure driving experience, and those who have never driven one just won't understand or appreciate it.

[@arny9464]

Only +20 minute video on KZbin I’ve watched completely. Great video, man! 🙌🏼 Would love to own a S2000 one day 😪

[@Nick-ez8zs]

I would choose the s2000 over the miata and the BRZ hands down

[@IStratz]

I would have loved to see an RX8 in here as well. It gets a bad reputation for the rotary, but it’s such a fun car. 9K redline, 200whp, and a really really good chassis. Sounds cool as well. If he lived near me, I’d let him review my RX8 lol

[@mechtech104]

For real, I feel people always forget the RX8 in these comparisons . You could find one in good condition for a quarter of the price of all of these.

[@ogmechsftw]

@@mechtech104 and 4x the running costs

[@TheTopher]

Never driven one but I really wanted an RX-8 back in the day!

[@BReal-10EC]

@@TheTopher RX8 is an S2000 "sedan". Loved my 04 more than any other car I've owned (including Miata). Just wish it was built to last.

[@IStratz]

@@TheTopher If you ever get the chance to, I would love to see a video of that.

[@chadhawkins478]

When a car (S2000) of 20 plus year old design is constantly compared to it's modern competitors, you know it is a classic in it's purist form. I'm curious to know from the comments of other cars that would fall into this designation?

[@tonytouchz757]

To all fairness the first mx5 (1990 to 98) hold themself well in this class too even if they are even older.

[@chadhawkins478]

@@tonytouchz757 I couldn't agree with you more. There is so much about the MX5 that can be appreciated and should be celebrated.

[@infidel900rr]

Always wanted an S2000, just never thought I could swing it as my only car. Now I've got room for two cars and prices are going up - this video makes me want to just go for it.

[@caydenbryner9613]

Damn, driving the BRZ must be like breakup sex for Chris 😂

[@alex_6315]

He broke up?

[@LucasG898]

@@alex_6315 no, he used to own a BRZ himself

[@Austinomon]

@@alex_6315 dude really lmao

[@mad_squidward]

that Brz sound though pure satisfaction.

[@jamiefisher1430]

As Chris said, the S2000 is at a segment above - similar to a Porsche Boxster. So its important to remind ourselves that the S2000 costed a lot more than the Mazda Miata of the same era (and if Subaru made the BRZ back in the late 90s). If Honda made the S2000 in 2021, it would have performance levels close to the Porsche 718 Boxster and therefore cost a lot more than the ND Miata and BRZ/86. But that isn't to say that the 86/BRZ and ND Miatas are bad cars at all, far from it.

[@FallenArtemie]

I just got a ND1 Miata GT and I am absolutely loving it. I long for work to end so I can hop into the cabin and take it for a spin. What I love most is how it feels to drive. The fact that I'm 5'8" but feel so big in it, the steering wheel and gauge placement, and the way you can see the fenders rise up all make me feel like I'm in a little British sportscar, but with the quality and finish of Japanese OEMs. I'm new to manual driving too, so I think this was also a great shifter for me to learn on. I was also looking at the 86/BRZ but I personally don't like the look of it. Didn't have the S2000 on the list at all, but I've heard that it's not a forgiving car so it would've been bad for a beginner like me.

[@georgeturcu5537]

Had for one year a 2006 S2000 in red and black interior. Bought it in 2009 with just 21000 miles for 19k. What a car!!!! Just pure fun

[@meryuk]

Oh, I love watching the Topher videos! Much more than any of the UK ones.

[@Slapshot544]

The fact a 20 year old Honda is still being compared to late 10's cars and still performing as good or better in most cases is crazy. Never selling mine.

[@aceofspades6667]

I have an ND ‘16 Miata (rwd + manual + Soft top) that I got for $10k OTD w 45k miles. It was at the onset of COVID so dealerships were desperate to move inventory this got a sweat heart deal.

[@aceofspades6667]

I have driven an S2k and it has no torque down low but screams up top. I prefer the ND for daily driving as the usable torque band is better but if you wanted just a weekend or track toy the S2k clearly wins. I’m not a brz fan at all.

[@Lobo_Argent]

If you own anyone of these three machines, you’re winning. Kudos

[@AdamKlingenberger]

Love the videos man, been subscribed for a while but I do appreciate the content! I have an ND1. Your POV Miata videos were some of my best resources when I was deciding whether to buy one. No regrets.

[@masonhales]

Miata was wrong trim, club has the LSD and better suspension as standard features. Grand touring just gets leather and that's it. edit - Also the convertible soft top is the true miata experience. Being able to slam the top down with your hands in 2 seconds feels amazing.

[@JFXtreme96]

Great video! I personally own a modified 2017 Toyota 86 and I love it. But I’d love to drive and s2000 and ND2. Hopefully one day get the chance of owning an S2000 before they skyrocket to unachievable prices 😁

[@z32luvr]

Too late

[@JFXtreme96]

@@z32luvr certainly up there! But I’d still be willing to pay if I had the money. I’m in Australia and cheapest one is now 40k AUD, used to be 14k around 6 years ago haha

[@peter9930]

still one of the best videos you’ve made. Love watching this one from time to time

[@wynnsimpson]

Thanks for your video. I drove an s2000 for the first time the other day and all I can say is it transported my old soul into a 22 year old.

[@matthijsgerretse3217]

I am strongly biased towards Mazda, so I'll talk Miatas only, but I'd choose an NA over any ND in a heartbeat. I daily an NA, but had to drive an ND (softtop) at work, so I thought I'd do some comparing. IMO, the ND feels a lot more serious than the NA. You're sat lower, the throttle and steering are much more responsive and sensitive, and the throttle pedal is a lot deeper, so you have to brake a bit harder than you would in normal traffic if you want to heel-toe. Though, perhaps the weirdest reason I'd choose the NA is the lack of infotainment. I'd rather have no infotainment than Mazda's old system. It's just too slow and confusing. Unlike most Miata fanboys though, design is not something I mind about the ND, because the only Miata that ever smiled was the NC2.5, the NA looks kinda disappointed, the NB is kinda evil, and most NCs don't really have a face. I think Mazda did a good job with merging the old Miata designs with their new "Kodo" philosophy (fun fact as example; the ND is the only Mazda currently available whose grille and headlights aren't connected). I am jealous of that ND's spec though. I actually remember asking my co-worker if Deep Crystal was available on the ND before they updated it. Deep Crystal with white leather is my favourite combo on any new Mazda tbh.

[@argentinodelavillacomerata2399]

2000 NB SE for the win. I love it 🥰

[@JustinDoesTriathlon]

Man, the deep crystal blue / white interior on the Miata is fantastic, but so hard to get right now. I'm soft-searching for one: There are literally only 4 DCB/White/Softtop/GT/Manuals for sale in the US. 😬 Great vid!

[@Revell25]

Man I feel like he had a bully in high school and that guy drove a Miata… I do agree the S2000 is superior. There will never be another one like it but I’ve only heard the opposite of what you say about the Miata and it’s the easiest/ most fun manual transmission in the market. And I can get behind that since I haven’t driven stock in years and picked up easy on it. I’ll take the Miata, I like have some tech/ Apple CarPlay

[@EctoPlasmic]

I can't wait till Topher reviews the 2022 GR86/BRZ

[@mickeyhartsell6096]

The Honda S2000 ROCKS

[@JericholOrk]

Really hard to compete with the S2000 and Miata. They are just engineered almost perfectly for the driver and driving.

[@arg0s33]

this is the type of video I’m looking for. Thanks!

[@Xaluber]

I traded my BRZ in for a 981 Cayman almost 2 years ago but videos like this makes me want another one. The Porsche is objectively better in nearly every way but sometimes I miss the simplicity and tossability of the Subaru.

[@scrutch666]

when he said to take the s2000 out to get a coffee in the morning and to rev it up to 9000 it described basically every of my mornings if the weather allows it. Coffee got expensive :( started to brew by myself before the drive now i need to figure out how to make gasoline myself

[@waitingforcivictyper]

Miata: modern platform with continual updates S2000: Old great way past its prime BRZ: Its a Subaru lol... Miata is the clear winner for me

[@TruckeeDoggo]

The suggestion at 8:20 that the Miata NC has more interior room than the ND is false and without any factual basis. It is true that the NC is a physically larger vehicle but the amount of interior room is basically identical, many reviewers have observed that interior leg room is basically unchanged down to the millimeter.

[@zaneprice6560]

Best sounding brz I’ve heard

[@ajr5195]

Excellent video! Ive owned Ap1 (stock), AP2 (stock+exhaust/intake), AP2 (supercharged/coilovers/tires/wheels), and ND1 soft top. The ND was MUCH more useable in the real world compared to the s2000’s. The around town driveability is much better and the car itself is much more playful/fun. I’m 6’1” and fit great in the ND after installing a seat lowering bracket that dropped the seat 1.5” and a leather pad on the right where your knee hits the center console (i trimmed the plastic piece and gained 1” of right leg room. 1/4” Leather pad was so it matched the rest of the interior). S2000 parts are becoming difficult and expensive to find. Especially engines/trans. After selling the ND1 i bought a C5 ZO6. It’s sold now and I’m trying to decide between ND2 and 2018+ Camaro SS 1LE..

[@SilverScarletSpider]

I like the Subaru BRZ because I grew up in the rear seats of a 2+2 two door coupe Honda Prelude. A four seat sports car is a car you can share with the family. 😢

[@Saboda53]

Don’t know where you’re driving, but I couldn’t help notice, those roads are largely ruler straight, putting the Miata at a bit of a disadvantage. Come out to New England where roads are narrow and twisty? MX-5 truly shines.

[@thegerman3911]

Im 6,2 and drive a 2017 Miata Sport and love it and fit just right.

[@muayadabdullah2998]

LOVED IT!! the fact that we kinda have same taste is really great. absolutely liked that manual transmission in the BRZ

[@_MOKIMO]

The miata 🔥🔥🔥

[@supervong1]

The S2000 is an iconic, master piece, world class. The other two are not on the S2k's leauge, they're more onto the Civic SI's.

[@Dragon228833]

That Miata’s color is amazing

[@Dragon228833]

Wow past self I agree 🥰🥰🥰

[@BrokenStatues7]

Awesome video as usual. I’d be highly interested to see the ND Miata with a couple mods. It was the only stock car in this video so a bit disadvantaged

[@gangatalishis]

The s2k will always be more desirable simply because it is not produced anymore. The brz is a good platform to work on, but stock I heard is meh. New Miata looks great and I’ve heard good things about it. I would get the Miata for daily use.

[@ThePilotGear]

Great video, as per usual. I'm a Miata man. I've driven every generation now and my favorite is the ND2 soft top in 'GS' trim (with the LSD and sport bits). If I had the money, that's where it would go. But I don't, so I bought an NB2 Miata which I feel is just about the best compromise I could have made. I've never driven an S2000 nor a BRZ but I was so tempted to buy the latter. Each of those cars are just about perfect; no wonder there are so many people comparing the three.

[@Noukz37]

What a video man! Thank you so much for doing this! After a long think, my choice would be... a W30 MR2 with a 2ZZ-GE swapped in. :-D

[@Rayshader]

Fantastic overview! A clear fav from your videos. Thank you

[@bhearing7681]

I always wanted an s2000. Instead I bought an FRS and a Prelude This was a beautiful video

[@GItoKeG]

2005 S2000 owner here. I raced against an ND Miata which I doubt was stock, with probably suspension and an AP1 S2000 with only suspension. Both with just stock engines and a decent suspension set up will spank "faster" cars on a technical track or road. The AP1 owner had more seat time and was about a second quicker than me (I'm still on original stock suspension). On my 3rd run I had an ND Miata chasing me and I let him go; couldn't keep up after that. Personally I've driven an S2000 and a BRZ. The BRZ seemed like it would be a fun car to track but you'd definitely have to put in my work to get the equivalent out of a Miata or S2000. I think all 3 are "Driver's Cars" with the BRZ being on that cusp. If I never had an S2000 I'd definitely own an ND Miata. Ideally I'd want a 2nd S2000 lol.

[@colemancrug]

Thank you for doing a proper POV video of the S2000. I owned an AP1 with similar mods and daily drove it for 5 years. It was great to hear again the fantastic sounds that made my day to say so enjoyable. I’d love to buy one again before they get too crazy expensive.

[@z32luvr]

Little too late for that.

[@driveri1435]

@@z32luvr i was about to say the same..

[@erezlevi5411]

Hondas are just on another class..

[@aceofspades6667]

Could you imagine if Honda had actually made a go at having a S2k as a permanent product in their lineup? It’s probably be pushing $70k - $80k today so you wouldn’t compare it to a Miata. It would be a Boxster or c8 comp.

[@TripedalTroductions]

Now with the new 2022 twins with the observed 250bhp it makes it even more difficult to make a decision. I bought a 2023 Miata RF simply because it performs similarly to all of them and it's absolutely gorgeous. The BRZ/GR86 are finally perfect out of the box. It was a really tough choice for me. I wanted a new car and a retractable hard top so the S2K was not an option for me. After how much fun I had in my Prelude, I'm holding out hope that one day I will have the privilege to drive an S2K. The supra is now offered in a manual. You can still get a cayman with an N/A flat-6. GR Corolla has been released. BMW hasn't given up on the M2. New mustang with dual throttle bodies and intake. All of these are offered with a manual. We are in another ICE sports car golden age. This time, it won't last long, and it will be the last.

[@businessmanph]

1. S2k power 2. Miata top down. 3. Brz 4 seats. Nd1 needs supercharger or turbo. Headers and exhaust. Tune. Nd1 modded > nd2 club. Light years ahead. I bet the v8 swap would be crazy.

[@djgoldthing7166]

Brz sounds amazing

[@milesfathi]

Aside from the S2000 I've test driven every sub 50k rwd sportscar a bunch of times. I realized very quickly that muscle cars weren't really for me. Weirdly enough, of all the compact Japanese options, the 370z was the one that I liked the most. And did not expect that. Yes, it's just a bit numb and rubbery and the engine is agricultural, but driving it makes you realize that without that shove in the back, a sportscar is hardly really a sportscar.

[@jjchockey]

Depends on the roads you drive on really. All of these cars handle significantly better then the Z.

[@mamba109]

4:32 "ND1s are around 20 (thousand)" pre-pandemic you could get them sub-15k. Since then used ND prices have skyrocketed.

[@mulletsquirrel]

All Miata prices are nuts... Can barely get an NB for $10k these days... :'(

[@mandraxfilostein]

Skipped to the S2000, cuz you know that's all we came to see.

[@Benscars]

This is sick, I love my s2k

[@calebellis2910]

Saw the 86 sticker in the window of the BRZ and then you said a toyota engineer drives it ;) good stuff

[@gunnitreck]

Very nice comparison, I own a stock Toyota GT86 from 2019 and I m pretty happy with it! Practial, daily useable, fun to drive and moderate costs! I don t need to count seconds, just very good chassis and sportscar feeling, even if I ve to admit, that the look of the Miata RF is also wonderful, I still love the Brz and GT 86 looking awesome!

[@jamescarson7856]

Before countries start banning sales of petrol cars in the next decade, I really hope Porsche will successfully improve on their eFuel, as well as Toyota with their development on their hydrogen fuelled combustion car. I'm not saying that we should all drive hydrogen cars AT ALL, but for the minority of us who still want the engagement from a manual gearbox, you simply won't get that from an EV - so it would be great if that technology will be trickled-down to these enthusiast cars, in order for Mazda to still build their MX-5, Toyota with their GR 86 and Porsche with their intoxicating 9000rpm 911 GT3.

[@adamb3129]

You can have a manual ev, the question is if anyone will make one

[@jamescarson7856]

@@adamb3129 I'm not really sure how that is possible, although I do hear that the Porsche Taycan has a 2 speed transmission haha

[@ralkia]

I was trying to find and link an article I read a few days ago that contained the Volkswagen CEO talking about why sustainable fuels won't replace petrol in cars. Can't find it, but the gist was that the closest alternative to gasoline had something like an 80% loss in power produced. Manual lovers are just going to have to continue driving older cars. It really does suck but that's how it seems to be playing out atm. As long as they never actually go as far as to ban people driving older cars, I'm okay with it.

[@endlesstwisties]

Why countries start banning? Why we don't start banning governments ?

[@jamescarson7856]

@@endlesstwisties I wish. As a guy with dual nationality, I unfortunately don't support any of the politicians in Japan and UK.

[@joaquinduran2235]

I'm watching this while I'm high and when he's ripping the brz and said this thing sounds *pause* the business had me dying💀💀💀

[@jaxnitsua1200]

For their price, mazda always makes such high quality interiors