Mazda MX-5 2021 review: the best sports car you can actually afford?

Visit YesAuto to find a new car the quick and easy way - www.yesauto.com/uk
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Mazda MX-5 is considered one of the greatest sports cars ever made, and the latest-generation ND model is touted as the best one since the late 1980s original. Cam, who calls himself a car guy, has never driven one despite being a journalist for the best part of a decade - but that all changes today.
With cars getting more powerful by the day, and our R-Sport model ‘only’ producing 130bhp from the smaller 1.5-litre engine, is the MX-5 still king of the affordable sports car?
0:00 Intro
0:51 Design
2:20 Boot
3:08 Engine specs
4:11 Interior layout
5:14 Price and trim
6:07 Tech
6:31 Storage
7:55 Roof mechanism
8:28 On the road
9:50 Performance
11:12 Driving impressions
11:39 Sound
12:12 What's it like on the motorway?
13:18 Likes vs dislikes
14:45 Verdict
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Instagram - / yesauto.uk
Facebook - / yesautouk
Twitter - / yesautouk
YesAuto is the one-stop shop for buying any car in a way that’s easy and enjoyable. We’ll help you find the right car, from the right dealer, the zero fuss way.
#Mazda #Mazdamx5 #Mazdamx5nd

[@YesAutoUK]

Hi everyone! We've now released our review of the MX-5 RF! Check it out here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3qzmJurjtV-gZI

[@Corinthian44]

At 83 years , I've shrunk to to 5 ft 8 ins , have run MX5s for 13 years , ( top down always ) yes , getting in, with arthritis in both knees is a struggle , but shouldn't be a problem to a younger driver .There's no other car in it's class, , so buy one and enjoy it !

[@johnhyoutube]

Excellent review, and nice to find someone who appreciates the 1.5 rather than hankering after the 2.0 version. I spent 15 years driving Porsches but came to the inevitable conclusion that the modern ones are so fast you dare not use the power if you value your driving licence. I gave up and now have a basic ND 1.5 which allows me to enjoy my driving within the confines of socially acceptable road speeds. Sometime less is more ... and I'm glad you get that too!

[@a3zth3tikz]

THANK YOU!! I hear a lot of people going on about how their cars have XXXX amounts of power etc which is nice but you don't really get to enjoy it because of rules and regulations and just plain traffic. I'd rather have the less powerful ones where I get to enjoy what it has to offer without risking my license, safety, and others.

[@DavidUKesb]

Plus in the vast majority of the UK the roads are so congested that super fast cars are utterly pointless. I often drive two classic cars, a 95hp MGB and a 58hp 1300 Austin and I'm still following other traffic 95% of the time.

[@hiilvl1854]

Got both 130 and bbr 220 mk3.5, much fun with 130bhp (easy rev to top) rather than 220 where the fun is harder to find and cost more fines (because 1-2-3 rev brings you fast over 90mph). The band is wider on lower size and my dad own a mk4 1.5, it's really like described in the video and the seek for momentum is the main quest. A rewarding one.

[@cegb551]

I got the nd rf a couple of weeks ago, 1.5L rather than 2L, and it’s enough. A very enjoyable car to drive.

[@alanthomson1227]

I’m with you , more fun driving a slower car fast tan a faster car slow . BTW I’ve had a 2l ND for 4 years now and still have huge grin even when just driving round to shops .

[@lewisdawson8607]

Power doesn't equal fun, it's about how the car interacts with the driver. I've drive a '13 A4 (180+bhp) and my MX5 MK2.5 (135-ish bhp). I find the Audi incredibly boring for all its more comfortable, safe and relaxing. As long as its not a long trip, I take the mx5 :)

[@hollyibbotson5290]

I like it, I've ridden motorcycles all my life, and I'm used to touring for a week on 40 litres of luggage, so 120/130 litres is positively luxurious. 😊👍

[@fellbetke9304]

Just bought mine on the 2nd!! I love it more each time I drive it.

[@front2427]

Is that the Miata?

[@fellbetke9304]

@@front2427 Yes

[@sportsmusiclover]

Ex Audi A3 owner. Switched to a Mazda CX-5. Never going back. Test driven an MX5 the other day and that’ll be my next purchase.

[@10rGreenninja]

I have a 2016 2.0 Recaro Sport which I bought in August 2018 so nearly 3 years now. I love it, it's my only car/daily driver and while I occasionally think it's a bit impractical, I then drive it again and sod it it's perfect. My 2nd MX 5 the first one was a 2004 MK2.5 which led me to the current one. Both great cars but the current one is better,

[@mad7206]

I've just bought a 1.5 sport and I'm so looking forward to collecting it on Saturday. I went for the 1.5 because I'm looking for fun without collecting points

[@mountainbikerpaul2267]

I remember collecting our 1.5 ND nearly 3 years ago, I don't get to drive ours much as it's a weekend car, but it never fails to put a smile on my face when I do get the chance to drive it, enjoy your special day this Saturday.

[@mad7206]

@@mountainbikerpaul2267 special day on Saturday has been put off until next Saturday. Due to COVID and Brexit there is a shortage of mechanics at the dealership and they are struggling to get the pre inspection done . I feel like a kid who's just been told Santa isn't coming lol. I will make up for it next week as I have the whole weekend off and I plan on putting a few miles on it

[@mountainbikerpaul2267]

@@mad7206 delayed for a whole week? that must have been hard to hear especially when you have been counting down the days for this saturday, sorry to hear that, fingers crossed they sort it out soon for you.

[@FireMaiden.666]

Hold on in there. I collect mine next Friday. Great car (not as good as the Toyota mr2, but definitely the next best thing) :)

[@mad7206]

@@FireMaiden.666 got a surprise call from the dealer yesterday and picked it up at 4pm . I couldn't stop grinning when I was driving with the roof down and then 10 min later I had to stop and put it back up " I live in Scotland " lol

[@joncommons1349]

Great review - really honest. Just wondering has Cal had the chance to drive the more powerful version, as it would be good to get his opinion..

[@AFancyHippo]

Good video. I'm getting one later this year.

[@YesAutoUK]

Thanks! I'm quite envious, really miss driving it - Cam

[@pauldecuyper8911]

I own a mX 5 ND cabrio... It is THE sportscar for a limited budget. at speeds up to 80 km/h it is even more fun than the Porsche Boxster 2020....

[@YesAutoUK]

Excellent! Really miss driving the MX-5. I actually had a Boxster GTS 4.0 last week and we're doing a video on it. Lots of similarities between the two, showing a) that the Boxster is a great drivers car and b) that the MX-5 is an absolute bargain. - Cam

[@rembo183]

@@YesAutoUK~. Yes indeed I’m an owner if an NC Miata and daily it even though I also own a Mustang Bullitt and a more practical Volvo S60! (saving it for wife). Lately I’m really considering buying the 4.0 GTS Cayman! I love my Mustang with the awesome power and sound but I really want the precise nimble handling of a Miata instead of a boat like the Mustang. Issue : the GTS costs about $100,000 minimum with a couple of options(US). The Miata is the best driving experience you can get on a budget. I’ll be looking forward to your review and comparison with the 4.0 Boxster and Miata. What’s your opinion on a GTS Cayman 4.0? I’m torn because of the money! However I want the best I can afford. Is it worth spending more money for the new flat six Cayman or Boxster? Trading?

[@rembo183]

@@YesAutoUK - Which is more fun to drive, Boxster or Miata? Do you think the Boxster is worth the added money: $100k vs. $40k. Curious 🤨

[@mkkoper]

I use my S60R as a winter car (with fitted winter tired) and ND2 soft top as a rest of the year car...

[@blueberrycobbler]

Joel Remland ..I have a 2021 MX5 and a Cayman, with a another Cayman on the way (GTS) in July, also a 2018 911. All of the cars are fun to drive, but the Porsches are on a different level. Personally, I never understand why people try to compare the MX5 to the Cayman/Boxster...different animals.

[@yankee2yankee216]

I had a 1994 NA from 1998-2009, and I LOVED it, let it go and have felt its loss ever since. Sooo, I just purchased a new one! Well, not a new one per se, but rather, a minty-mint, low-mileage, BRG 1997 NA! I have made the purchase, and will take delivery next week. I am ECSTATIC! Frankly, I like the simple, original, Lotus Elan-like styling of the NA better than any of the others. I actually gave my wife my excellent BMW 128i (she deserves it) for her approval in buying it. Who needs a BMW when you have a perfect Miata?

[@lauriehwrdlh]

That driving style description is exactly why I used to love getting low powered rentals when I was on vacation or why I used to ride 600cc motorbikes instead or the big stuff! Keeping it in the "buzz" range on the motor and sweeping around the corners, none of this point and shoot stuff.

[@nadimsawaya]

Although the first instinct is to go for the 2.0L, I found the 1.5L to be better suited... Great review!

[@YesAutoUK]

Thanks! I really enjoyed the 1.5, properly rewarding when you figure out how to make the most of it - Cam

[@maxmorris4562]

It’s quite slow though 0-60 in like 8 + seconds

[@smilepermile8165]

@@maxmorris4562 I assume you're referring to the ND1 2.0 prefacelift with the 155hp engine, because it has a much lower redline of 6800rpm compared to the ND2 2.0 facelift with the 181hp engine that revs to 7500rpm.

[@PolarBearBaby]

great review love mx5

[@alanthomson1227]

And a storage compartment behind both seats .

[@robertocop123]

Awesome video Cam! I’m a former MK3/NC MX5 owner and can really relate to your description of its driving characteristics and how to get the most from it. Great stuff

[@wibblewabblewoo6249]

I’ve just bought one. One week in and I’m in love!!!

[@johnweir7855]

I’m 6foot 3, weigh 13 and half stone and I’m 67 years old. I can get in and out of the car no bother I love my mx5 nd

[@brickmissing8295]

Yup -6’1 and no problems here either. The reviewer seems to have his seat positioned about 6” forward of the backstop and then he complains about lack of knee room !?*? I find there’s plenty of knee room with the seat fully back - although you may prefer to set it one click forward so you can recline a bit more to get your head below the roll bar height….

[@joneshank1]

where is the red top?

[@jaisabai4155]

Nudge, nudge. Wink, wink. Say no more! 👍🍻

[@mauricehamlin1062]

Honestly I need a Sporty Car....will acknowledge range miles a Gallon,tires radiator and locks advance locking security a Plus notes a priority

[@pushbikeman]

A really good job by the interesting and watchable reviewer who delivers all the need-to-know stuff in a relaxed yet engaging manner, The visuals and sound is pretty good even though the music is horrible but oh how good is that engine rasp. As for the car, well it's a real head-turner, and that burgundy interior is just sensational. My only gripe is that the front dash looks identical to the CX5 or any other Mazda for that matter as for this review car I just cannot handle a grey car, grey is just, well grey like a nothing colour and to me the colour of fog.

[@alanthomson1227]

If you’re 6ft why have seat so close . I’m only 5.7 and have it all way back .

[@peterkirton4580]

I love the MX5 save for one important thing, I cannot sit comfortably in it being 6ft 2inches and the cabin is cramped

[@haatpraat2993]

I'm 6'3". I have read nothing but positive reviews about the MX5 - except for ones relating to taller people. I'm will take a test drive before I buy.

[@peterlewis3540]

The only downside there is, when your considering buying a new, or preowned MD model, is whether you can fit comfortably inside the car. Im 5 ft 11in and i recon if i was any taller, or certainly above 6ft, then my driving position would be compromised. The car is so perfect in the way it drives, offering the driver such a rewarding experience, that to be denied access to the interior, would be a great shame. A 6ft person, is hardly tall in today's society, but that is the only negative aspect of the current MX5, not everyone will fit.

[@vhockada]

There is no way this little guy is just shy of 6 foot.

[@johntechwriter]

Hello from California. A four-time MX-5 owner here. My 2019 MX-5 2L, the base Sport model, is the one to get if you want maximum value. For street driving this car does not need LSD or 17" wheels or Brembo brakes, so why pay thousands more for a Club? The Sport has what you want: the upgraded 2L engine, which transforms the car, and all-alloy suspension. For the price of an econo-box you can own the best sports car on the road. Just don't be over 6' or 180 lb.

[@invictusboxing5783]

I really want one but I’m scared if they’d be too dangerous

[@smilepermile8165]

How? They scored well in the Euro N Cap crash tests.

[@sniperalexander248]

Something about your shoes ruin the shot, nice video, subscribe

[@S-Ltd1000]

This actually has more in common with the Mk1 than you think,.

[@FireMaiden.666]

I have heard that too, back the the best.

[@MegaMicraman]

looks like the handbrake isn't totally off.

[@johntechwriter]

No, that's just the way it sits. I own one.

[@BuiltByKyle]

🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@jamed63]

What are you talking about! ‘The back looks great’.

[@TheBanjoFlyBoy]

I feel sad for the places that require a tag in that Miata manta ray's mouth😩

[@TheBanjoFlyBoy]

BTW I own a 2020 MX5 GT😜

[@rat47]

How can you review a convertible and not even drive it with the top down……..or even show how it works…….your knee hits the steering column but the seat wasn’t even all of the way back…….you appear to have a very strange seating position

[@00VII]

Why everyone say automatic is no good. I find it bull shit. Automatic is good from someone have disabilities issue

[@rubbertoe.]

$50k cad for a miata is not affordable lmao

[@acchaladka]

No but the base is the way to go at C$30k new... Or wait for early winter and poke around for a one-year used model.

[@theemshawshow8501]

The problem is... you can get a used Jaguar F type V6 for the same cost and it has all the same things you basically love about the Miata, only it's faster and is a much better everyday driver. And noone will think you're driving a chick's car (not my opinion, I love the Miata, but it's an opinion of others nonetheless). Then there's the safety concerns. If you get into an accident in a Miata, you are basically screwed. I used to own one, and like a motorcycle, people can't see you often. I've been cutoff many times on the freeway and narrowly avoided accidents. On the plus side, though Jags are getting better, the Miata is probably more reliable and cheaper to repair, not to mention insurance costs and MPG value. And Jags only come in autos, though when I had mine I did not even care about that because it is was such a blast, though some people will really hate that.

[@smilepermile8165]

weight. ND weighs less than 110kg. F type weighs around 1600kg at least. Who cares about the 'image' problem? If you do, you're missing out on the fun and don't have a thick skin

[@theemshawshow8501]

@@smilepermile8165 Agreed on the weight. However, you dont notice that much in the Jag as its very nimble. Also weight has its advantages. 18 wheelers dont blow you out of your lane on the freeway. Stability is also a benefit

[@smilepermile8165]

@@theemshawshow8501 Jaguar made the ftype feel artificially nimble by using fatter tyres to make it feel 'darty' and additional driving aids which buffer the engagement for the driver's inputs. No one buys MX-5s for motorway cruises - Mazda didn't design it to be a grand tourer, its meant to be an affordable fun-to-drive car with cheaper consumable costs (tyres, fuel costs).There's plenty of aftermarket support on theses MX-5s that offer underfloor panels and diffusors to increase stability, see Verus Engineering with their Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) diagrams.

[@pureroadster59]

I have an ND 1.5 and my Dad has an F-Type V6. These cars are chalk and cheese. The F-type is a big heavy comfortable automatic that makes nice noises and is fast. The ND is a go kart on the road, that can be thrown around at low speed without too much risk. Try throwing the F-Type around on the road and you will find a tree or barrier fast. I would take my ND 1.5 over the ND as a fun car every day of the week. Ego put aside, it's the better car for pure driving enjoyment.

[@FireMaiden.666]

What's wrong with having a "chicks car"? The MX-5 is a great car, bit as good as the Toyota mr2 mk3, but next hest thing. The weight, the response, the style. Much better than the jag IMO.

[@marmac567]

I toured Europe on a motorcycle, so you absolutely can do two weeks in France , or tour the world in that car,, WTF do you want to take on holiday with you?

[@alangross2277]

Move the seat back to get out...!!!

[@davidhayes4814]

Great little car though this undoubtedly is, it does have an image problem.... mid-life crisis.... babe’s car... etc.it shouldn’t matter but it does. Hot hatches have a more under-stated image, which works.

[@deepblueskyK]

Image problem or not... the MX-5 ND/RF is currently "the best bang for the buck" when you're looking for an affordable roadster/convertible. Passionate MX-5 drivers never really cared about what others think. ;)

[@smilepermile8165]

David Hayes you clearly don't have a thick skin and you're insecure to think about what others think about you when you should care about how much fun you get for your money. At the end of the day, you're the one missing out on the fun

[@johntechwriter]

If you are obsessed by what others think of you, this car might be a bit too distinctive. The new design has done away with the "cute car" look of earlier generations. I've owned an MX-5 like the one tested here but in black for 18 months, and get compliments from both car enthusiasts, who know the car's reputation for driving engagement, and people who aren't interested in cars but like the looks of this one. A hot hatch is faster, no question, but also burdened with FWD or AWD and understeer. The MX-5 is vastly more rewarding to drive than any hot hatch.

[@wibblewabblewoo6249]

I’ve had all of those comments.... and every time I drive it, I really really really don’t give a shit whatever ppl say because I’m enjoying my drive to/from work!

[@FireMaiden.666]

"babes car"? Don't see the problem there. You might need therapy.

[@MyTROLLEYBUS]

Goodness me its ugly as sin & so dreary in Tarmac Grey. Radio aerial from the 1970's cramped, cabin & somebody has left their iPad on the dash. The ultimate invisible baby car.

[@smilepermile8165]

Don't forget your spec savers appointment tomorrow at 9am.

[@FireMaiden.666]

Did you even watch the video? I guess not.

[@brickmissing8295]

Agree about the colour and the tiny ipad sticking out of the dash - but still a great car despite all that. Shame the ipad can’t be folded away for a cleaner look.

[@johnrgoodman]

I think you can lower the seats